Page 143 - Cyber Defense eMagazine July 2024

Cyber Threats vs. Risks: Building a Proactive Cyber Defense

By George Jones, Chief Information Security Officer at Critical Start

As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve in the ever-changing cyber landscape, organizations within
every industry must implement a comprehensive security strategy to remain resilient in the face of
attacks. While most security teams are focused on patching potential threats, lingering risks within
organizations are leaving them vulnerable to attacks. Understanding the differences between cyber
threats and cyber risks is crucial when building a proactive and reactive cyber defense strategy. In fact,
if left unseen and unresolved, risks can result in data breaches or major operational disruptions.
According to IBM’s 2023 Cost of a Data Breach Report, the average cost of a data breach reached $4.5
million.

Additionally, security leaders must also stay informed on current trends and evolving developments such
as generative AI that pose unique security risks and educate team members on how to safely navigate
these tools. This article will uncover the important differences between cyber threats and risks, going
beyond reactive to proactive measures, emerging cyber trends, and building a future-ready security
culture to help safeguard organizations in today’s digital age.

Cyber Defense eMagazine – July 2024 Edition 143
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