At some point in time, organizations are likely to experience a breach or vulnerability that exposes sensitive information. Having a robust response plan before an incident takes place can help to minimize the impact on business and reputation.
The last couple of years have been the toughest for IT sectors, especially those working in cybersecurity. With the threat and advancement of cyber-attacks continuing to increase, it is crucial for CISOs to secure their infrastructure. However, it is not the only factor that they should prepare themselves for. While taking extra measures to prevent cyber-attacks from infiltrating is essential, it is equally vital that CISOs prepare themselves for the aftermath of a security event.
Most organizations these days immediately disclose that they have suffered a cybersecurity incident. While this helps to let the customers know about the data breach, it is also crucial that they spread the news with the right approach. Breaking the news about a security incident often leads to organizations getting something wrong or, worse, their spokesperson delivering inaccurate information, which is difficult to remedy. Additionally, being more vocal in the process can attract unnecessary scrutiny for the security incident. Instead of revealing information too or later, CISOs should take steps to find the middle ground of communication that they should follow in case of breach notifications.
Also Read: Four Best Practices CISOs should Adopt for Hybrid Workplace
It is important to have a plan in place that will enable us to respond to a breach effectively. Here are a few steps they can take to build one.
Understand the breach processes of the cyber insurance carrier
CISOs should first get in touch with cyber insurers to understand what steps they should take in case an incident occurs. In case a breach is suspected or occurs, CISOs should first reach out to them. The insurers may also have investigators that will help CISOs to understand the nature of the breach. Additionally, the insurance carrier may have communication experts that will either assist in the communication procedure or provide a spokesperson in the event.
Have a communication plan in place
Not having a communication plan in place is often a recipe for disaster, as it ends up doing more harm than good. Hence, it is crucial that CISOs collaborate with their counterparts to draft the communication that should be presented to the user. They should ensure that communication regarding what the customers and clients should expect after a breach is crisp and clear. Moreover, CISOs should also emphasize following guidance from their cyber insurance provider and attorney regarding communication associated with client-facing websites and public-relations notifications.
After releasing the breach notification, CISOs should monitor the follow-up communication that they may need as the situation changes.
Also Read: Strategies to Protect Cloud-Based Home
Keep a vulnerability disclosure program in place
Another important process to put in place is the vulnerability disclosure program. Organizations that possess client-facing websites or properties can and should have a process that allows for vulnerability disclosures from the public. Implementing bug-bounty programs or zero-day initiatives can help their organization find vulnerability before it occurs and enable them to address it before anyone can exploit it.
For more such updates follow us on Google News ITsecuritywire News
