Prepared, not scared

Cyber criminals don’t take vacations. They are unrelenting. That’s why we’re launching a monthly educational cybersecurity series to help you stay prepared, not scared.

The need for preparation is critical. According to the Identity Theft Resource Center, data breaches increased 72% between 2021 and 2023. Every day, companies face unscrupulous bad actors. But they can be thwarted. The NetApp Executive Briefing Center is excited to offer a new monthly Solution Series on cybersecurity, “The CSO’s guide to security done right.” In our first session, on August 23, NetApp Chief Marketing Officer Gabie Boko and I will help demystify cyberthreats, so you can develop a tangible game plan that’s appropriate for your organization.

The session, “Prepared, not scared: Making cybersecurity everyone’s job,” will cover several topics, including:

• Identifying the need for cybersecurity changes
• Assessing your current cybersecurity practices
• Implementing changes in manageable phases 
• Effective ways to engage stakeholders at all levels of your organization

SESSION DETAILS

Session 1: Aug. 23, 2024 | 1 -1:30 PM CT | Hosted Virtually via Zoom

Prepared, not scared: Making cybersecurity everyone’s job

You will come away from the discussion feeling better informed and more confident about how to bolster your cyberdefenses. We will describe a comprehensive initial strategy to implement the major components of a cybersecurity plan, including:

• Need for change. Assess the current cybersecurity practices and identify any gaps or vulnerabilities that need to be addressed. This assessment may involve conducting security audits, assessing risks, and analyzing incident reports.
• Define objectives. Clearly define the objectives of the change management process. This evaluation may include enhancing security controls, implementing new technologies, updating policies and procedures, and improving employee awareness and training.
• Establish a change management team. Evaluate how to form a change management team consisting of individuals with expertise in cybersecurity, IT, legal, and relevant business units. This team will be responsible for planning, implementing, and monitoring the change initiatives.
• Develop a change management plan. Create a comprehensive plan that outlines the specific actions, timelines, and resources required for each change initiative. This plan should address the technical, operational, and cultural aspects of cybersecurity.
• Communicate with and engage stakeholders. Effective communication is crucial during change management. Engage stakeholders at all levels of the organization, including executives, IT staff, employees, and external partners. Clearly communicate the reasons for change, the benefits, and the expected impact on individuals and the organization as a whole.
• Conduct training and awareness programs. Conduct cybersecurity training programs to educate employees about the importance of cybersecurity, best practices, and their roles and responsibilities in maintaining a secure environment. Regularly communicate updates and reminders to reinforce the importance of cybersecurity.
• Implement changes in phases. Break down the change initiatives into manageable phases to minimize disruption and facilitate smooth implementation. Prioritize changes based on risk and feasibility, and closely monitor the progress and impact of each phase.
• Monitor and evaluate. Continuously monitor the effectiveness of the implemented changes and evaluate their impact on cybersecurity. Regularly review incident reports, conduct security assessments, and seek feedback from stakeholders to identify any further improvements or adjustments needed.
• Update policies and procedures. Revise and update cybersecurity policies, procedures, and guidelines to align with the implemented changes. Make sure that these documents are easily accessible and regularly communicated to employees.
• Foster a culture of security. Encourage a culture of security awareness and accountability throughout the organization. Recognize and reward individuals and teams that demonstrate proactive cybersecurity practices and report potential threats or vulnerabilities.

Sign up to participate in the new monthly CSO Solution Series.