Developing a Security Program

It’s no secret that all of the top businesses have their differences. Whether in their approach or field, these businesses still have one thing in common… They all have a robust security program. A security program is the sum total of a business’ security capability. This includes its policies, tools, procedures, and control measures. Developing a security program is the process of emphasizing information security roles and responsibilities.

Why Do I Need a Security Program?

Every business in this country has sensitive assets, information, and operations. If compromised, the business or organization could face disaster not only for itself but for its customers, clients, and its future. This is part of why the business is so lucrative for criminals. Competing businesses or simple bad actors are willing to pay a lot to get at these things.

This is why criminals are willing to work so hard for it. Cybercrime is nothing new, but it is also constantly evolving. Today’s form is different from ten years ago, and without a comprehensive security program, you won’t be ready for it next year… Let alone this year.

How Can I Be Secure?

There, unfortunately, isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to cybersecurity. Just like your reasons for establishing a security program will vary, so will the specifics of that program. However, you will usually focus on these three areas: Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability.

  • Confidentiality: An organization should be able to protect sensitive information and keep it secret. Personal information, confidential information, financial records, etc., need to be secure. Communication should be air-tight.
  • Integrity: Information, record keeping, and practices should all be up to date and secure. Many regulations also require records such as financial records to have full integrity.
  • Agility: There should be a minimal amount of downtime. Staff should remain productive and have all necessary tools available. There should never be a time when you can’t access necessary information.

How to Build a Security Program

While every security program is different and tailored to a specific business, they tend to go through the same steps. Below is the typical path a security program takes from conception to completion.

  1. Learning: You need to know what you do and don’t have before you do anything. You should perform penetration tests, establish risks, and identify gaps. The results of this early appraisal will determine how you move forward.
  2. Development: Once you know your weaknesses and needs, you can create a plan to address them. This plan should cover both current needs and the ability to address future concerns.
  3. Implementation: You can now build controls and start training to ensure the plan is followed to the letter. Utilizing new tools and technologies that help carry out your plan happens here.
  4. Normalization: After training completes, it is important that you make your changes to the new “business as usual.” By moving forward more securely, you limit your chances of needing another massive project to secure your business.

Where Should I Start?

By asking these questions, you’ve already started building a security program. You will now want help identifying your business needs, which it pays to get help with. Arruda Group will help you establish industry-leading security standards. Our intelligence background will help you and your business stay at the forefront of cybersecurity. CW started building an air-tight security program… One that will protect your business, customers, and your future.