This is an exclusive article series conducted by the Editor News of CIO News with Ashish Shah, a Former Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
Traditionally, chief information security officers (CISOs) were labelled to a technical role and were primarily involved in implementing security measures related to the IT infrastructure of the organization. The standard framework with perimeter security protection was the key program to accomplish the objective. However, with continuous technological progress, growing digital transformation, and increasing complexity of cyber threats, the role of CISOs has evolved multiform over time.
CISOs of the current era are the senior executives who are responsible for overseeing the security of an organization’s information systems and data. The role has moved from primarily being a technical role to more of a business leader. CISOs now play a wide range of roles in ensuring compliance, protection of information assets, brand reputation protection, and managing and mitigating the risks of cyberattacks and data breaches. Therefore, the role is increasingly recognized as critical for the organization to pursue its strategic objectives effectively.
We will examine some of the major changes that have affected the CISO role and how they are responding.
Changes in the Threat Landscape
One of the most significant changes that Chief Information Security Officers have faced in the last few years is the increase in the frequency, sophistication, and impact of cyberattacks and data breaches. The information security landscape has changed dramatically with the emergence of new technologies, regulations, and changes in business models such as remote work, cloud environments, and digitization. CISOs have had to deal with a variety of threat actors who have different motives, capabilities, and tactics and cope with the challenges of securing an expanding attack surface. CISOs have had to deal with the increasing sophistication and diversity of cyberattacks targeting specific regions, sectors, or industries. CISOs must adapt to these changes and evolve their skills, responsibilities, and expectations in accordance with the complexities, risks, and threats associated with them.
Changes in the Technology Landscape
Another major change that CISOs have faced is the rapid adoption of new technologies and proliferation of digital transformation initiatives within the organization. CISOs have had to support and enable these digital transformation proposals while ensuring they do not compromise the security of the organization and customers. CISOs also have had to adopt and integrate new technologies and tools, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain. CISOs have also had to manage and govern the security of cloud platforms, vendors, and partners, mobile devices, the internet of things, and operational technology.
Changes in the Regulatory Landscape
The third major change that CISOs have faced is the complexity of laws and regulations that govern the security and privacy of information. CISOs have had to ensure that their organizations comply with these laws and regulations, which often have different and sometimes conflicting requirements, scopes, and penalties. CISOs have had to implement and maintain the appropriate policies, procedures, controls, and audits to demonstrate compliance. Chief Information Security Officers have also had to communicate and collaborate with the relevant authorities, regulators, and vendors to address any issues, inquiries, or requests related to security.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chief Information Security Officers have evolved in the last decade as a result of the changes in the threat, technology, and regulatory landscapes. CISOs have had to expand their roles and responsibilities, enhance their (and teams) skills and competencies, and elevate their influence and visibility in organizations. CISOs also must align with the business strategy and objectives, along with maintaining a fine balance of the competing demands of security, innovation, and compliance. CISOs have become more than just security managers; they have become strategic business partners and leaders possessing a rare blend of technical and business acumen.
CISOs have also had to anticipate and prepare for future laws and regulations, which may have significant implications for the organizations and operations. Chief Information Security Officers have to be more adaptive, agile, flexible, and responsive in their strategy and implementation to accommodate the diverse and changing needs and expectations of their customers and stakeholders.
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