Eric Stylemans’ Post

#CyberResilience is an organizational decision, not a technical one. The goal is to align technology with the needs of the organization - across the entire organization - taking into account risk tolerance, regulation & compliance, governance, operational resiliency and other factors to make the best decisions possible for the organization. Frameworks are great guides but they don't give you the "how" + there is not a "one size fits all" framework. By starting with the "needs of the organization" you can better develop and deploy the tools necessary to be effective. Per Jason Rader, #CISO with Insight Enterprises Inc., "Organizations need to move away from security and compliance being compartmentalized and move towards coordination and alignment between the two. By aligning cyber risk with #governance, #risk and #compliance (#GRC) the aim is to limit liability from legal and compliance, ensure a governance mode fit for audit and comply with regulating bodies like the Security Exchange Commission (#SEC)" #CyberIsTheNewDisaster #GoodEnoughIsNotGoodEnough #CIO #CISO #Cyber #CyberCrime #Malware #Ransomware #RansomwareAttacks #RansomwareProtection #RansomwareRecovery #Extortion #Exfiltration #Encryption #vulnerability #CyberResiliency #CyberDefense #InformationSecurity #InfoSec #CyberSecurity #ZeroTrust #PowerProtect #DataProtection #Backup #BusinessContinuity #DataSecurity #Immutable #Immutability #RetentionLock #CyberRecovery #Isolation #SecureOurWorld #BeCyberSmart #ShieldsUp #SecureByDesign #SecureByDefault #DefenseInDepth #DefenseInLayers #TrustedInfrastructure #TrustedWorkspace #SecureSupplyChain #SecureSoftwareDevelopment #IWork4Dell https://lnkd.in/gBtM_8xX

Following my previous post about the new certification I have in hand—The GRC Approach to Managing Cybersecurity—I would really like to share why GRC (Governance, Risk Management, Compliance) stands as the core of cybersecurity in both prevention and recovery. In the constantly changing world of Cybersecurity, where the dynamic between hackers and defenders grabs our attention, there’s an essential ally working silently in the background; GRC is not just a preventative measure; it’s our guide through the chaos post-incident, helping to rebuild and secure our defenses against future threats. Think of GRC like the smart planner in a team, always ready with a plan to avoid problems and to help us recover quickly if things go wrong. It's what makes the difference between a small bump in the road and a major disaster. #Governance: It lays down the law, creating the framework within which our digital lives are safeguarded. Much like choosing the "banker" in Monopoly, except here, the stakes are high, and the rules are non-negotiable. #RiskManagement: Consider it like planning a safe path through a dangerous area. Risk management is all about foreseeing threats before they manifest, and navigating challenges as they come. #Compliance: Far from being the party pooper of the digital world, compliance ensures that we operate within legal and ethical guidelines, acting as our moral guide and protector when things get tough. 💫 The strength of GRC comes from combining human insight with advanced technology. While our tools give us strength, it's really the human touch—that makes GRC effective, creating a defense that adapts to new cyber threats. In my roles as a #SalesExecutive in leading Cybersecurity firms, I've seen firsthand how a robust GRC framework serves as a cornerstone in building trust with clients and driving business growth. It's through understanding and implementing these principles that we can offer not just security solutions, but strategic partnerships that empower businesses to thrive in a digital age. #Cybersecurity #GRC #RiskManagement #Compliance #Governance #HumanFactor #Technology #DigitalDefense"

CISOs: Compliance Maturity vs. Solving Real Problems “Striking the Balance” In today’s fast-evolving cybersecurity landscape, CISOs are often laser-focused on achieving compliance maturity. While regulatory standards and audits are critical, there’s a bigger issue often overlooked: solving real security problems. Are we too focused on compliance to notice the real threats? Why Does Compliance Dominate? Regulatory Pressure: CISOs face immense pressure to comply with a growing number of regulations to avoid hefty fines and reputational damage.  Audits and Reporting: Regular audits create a “check-the-box” mentality, where meeting criteria becomes the sole objective, often sidelining actual security.  Resource Allocation: Limited resources and budget constraints force many to prioritize compliance over more comprehensive security initiatives. The Real Problem: A False Sense of Security Focusing solely on just compliance can lead to the dangerous assumption that compliance equals security. In reality, the true threats often lie beyond compliance checklists. Cybercriminals exploit these gaps, leading to breaches despite an organization being fully "compliant." What Needs to Change? Adopt a Risk-Based Approach: Prioritize initiatives addressing the most significant threats, not just compliance mandates. Close security gaps that regulations might overlook but pose real risks.  Develop a Holistic Security Strategy: Build a security program that looks beyond checkboxes. Continuously assess how well your controls mitigate actual risks and adapt them accordingly.  Continuous Improvement: Security is a never-ending journey. Continuously update your measures to adapt to new threats and attack vectors. Organizations that push beyond regulatory standards often lead the way in security innovation.  Foster a Security-First Culture: Encourage employees to see security as their responsibility. Security should be a core value, not just about ticking compliance boxes. A Fresh Perspective on Non-Compliance? Sometimes, non-compliance can push organizations to innovate in security. Regulatory frameworks often lag behind emerging threats. Forward-thinking CISOs may go beyond compliance requirements before they're mandated to stay ahead of evolving risks. Compliance is extremely necessary, but it's not enough. CISOs must strike a balance between regulatory adherence and tackling real-world security challenges head-on. Only then can we build resilient organizations capable of withstanding today’s constantly evolving threat landscape. Let’s discuss! Share your experiences as a CISO navigating the balance between compliance and addressing real security risks. #CISO #SecurityExcellence #SecurityBigBets #RiskBasedApproach #SecurityFirst

Highlighting several #big client #wins from last week. Each bullet point represents a separate client, but regardless, very #proud of the teams, both internal at our clients, as well as, ComplySAM: - SOC 2 Compliance - ISO 27001 - Risk Assessments (2x) - Policy Creation & Design (2x) - Compliance Automation Tool Alignment with Company (2x) - Procurement Security Questionnaires - Incident Response Remediation & Investigation These are the moments, as the #CEO of a #startup, I am most proud that we can pull together & accomplish for our clients. #cybersecurity #compliance #TeamWorkMakesTheDreamWork #TimeIsMoney John Colby Isabella Trelles Arsenije Matkovic Beau Butaud Angelika Mayen Michael Sherwin

The club is calling…it’s time to get your organization's groove on w/ a #Culture of #Compliance. Check out our latest #CyberSec #Blog post! https://lnkd.in/gjviXhGM #blog #itcompliance #informationtechnology #informationsecurity #cybersecurity #itleaders #cyberdefense #infosec

Interesting Friday read... here's to a great weekend. (ISMS) As well as the confidence to speak and report to the board of directors, there are considerations on whether the CISO should be technically savvy and be aware of the workings and configurations of the defences, as well as them being able to spread security awareness and manage risk throughout the organisation. If that sounds like a lot to sit on a person’s plate, consider the compliance element. Yes, Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) are the cornerstones of a company’s security plan, but how much does compliance come into consideration of the CISO’s skills, and is there a fresh skills shortage of compliance frameworks and regulations for the future CISO? #ciso #cisos #vciso #compliance #Buckler #cybercompliance #cybersecuritycompliance #cyberprogram #cybersecurityprogram #programmanagement #securityawareness #cybersecurityawareness #grc #governance #regtech #cybergrc https://lnkd.in/e7rEV2Rp

#MondayMondayMonday I've seen how challenging it can be for small businesses to stay on top of IT compliance. For small businesses (like ours), it's more about keeping the lights on than it is making sure you do a quarterly access review of your six full time employees. In the same vein, it’s not just about meeting compliance requirements—it’s about keeping data safe and the business running smoothly. That's why I've enjoyed being able to provide Compliance Program Management/vCISO/fractional CISO to smaller businesses. From policy development to enterprise risk assessments to ongoing third-party management, we're able to help businesses build a strong foundation that not only protects their business but also helps prepare for any sort of compliance programs you might be eyeing. Whether trying to navigate the complexities of industry regulations or just get some help in creating a sustainable compliance program, we can help. Not only can we help, but we can also help at a fraction of the cost of hiring a seasoned CISO. #Compliance #ITAudit #RiskManagement #VendorManagement #SmallBusiness #CyberSecurity #AuditReady

What is your metrics about the state of cyber-readiness at the individual, department and group levels, with the ability to inject these metrics into the implementation of security controls. Metrics around employee engagement with adaptive SAT content can be a useful predictor of future behavior change towards secure practices. Access the Gartner report - ‘Four Steps to Develop Outcome-Driven Metrics for Cybersecurity ’, courtesy of OutThink. By author(s): Paul Proctor, Shruthi Sharkel, Emily Tan, Richard Addiscott, Paul Furtado, Christophen Mixter #CISO #cybersecurity #Securityawareness #gartnerpeerinsights

I was preparing new written and presentation material on the role of CISOs in corporate governance and came across this very well-written piece on Kevin LaCroix's D&O Diary Journal by Greg Markel, Giovanna (Gina) Ferrari, and Sarah Fedner at Seyfarth Shaw LLP. In today’s digital age, the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) role is important and integral to corporate governance. CISOs are crucial in navigating the complex cybersecurity landscape, aligning with corporate objectives, and ensuring robust risk management practices. You must align your program with the D&O's Duties of Care, Loyalty, Duty of Care, Disclosure/Candor, and Oversight. 🚨 When you are purchasing a vendor solution, does it meet these criteria so there is no concern about wasteful spending? Here’s what every CISO should know: ⚠️ Enterprise Risk Management (ERM): CISOs are not just contributors but proactive contributors to the ERM process. They engage in risk adjudication and decision-making, going beyond just setting cybersecurity policies. 🎯 Board Communication: It is crucial to establish clear, consistent communication with the board about the health and maturity of the cybersecurity program. This fosters strong working relationships and reinforces the importance of cybersecurity. 👩🏽💼 Multifaceted Role: Modern CISOs must be more than technical specialists. They should also be effective program managers, relationship builders, culture leaders, and strategists. 🥷🏻 Compliance Expertise: It's crucial for CISOs to stay conversant with cybersecurity regulations. This ensures they can integrate compliance into security practices across the enterprise, keeping the organization updated. 🧠 Strategic Insight: Engage with the board on emerging trends and potential external partnerships that could enhance the company’s market position and competitive edge. CISOs can drive their organizations toward a secure, resilient, and strategically aligned future by focusing on these areas. #CyberSecurity #CISO #CorporateGovernance #RiskManagement #Compliance #BoardCommunication #DOCRA #DutyofCare

Same with #internalaudit! We are not just a necessary evil, if done right we should be helping achieve business objectives and be a trusted business advisor. We scope by first understanding the areas strategic objectives and priorities and then assess, what could go wrong/what has to be right? Any good business executive should value that independent thought and view, if done correctly, and we should add value vs. one more “compliance” box checked. Are you getting what you need (and should) from your audit and compliance functions?