Page 30 - Cyber Defense eMagazine June 2024

cybersecurity gameplan. But don’t wait for trouble to strike. The right fractional CISO at the right time can
help you prevent or prepare for attacks.

What are some of the indicators you should watch for?

• Rapid Growth Without Corresponding Security Maturity: If your organization is experiencing
rapid growth in terms of revenue, market share, or workforce, but your cybersecurity measures
are not maturing at the same pace, a fractional CISO could provide the necessary strategic
direction.
• Complex Regulatory Compliance Needs: For businesses in heavily regulated industries (like
finance, healthcare, or energy), staying compliant with evolving regulations requires sophisticated
security strategies. A fractional CISO can help you navigate these complexities effectively.
• Increased Frequency of Security Incidents: A rise in minor security incidents or “near misses”
can be a precursor to more significant breaches. A fractional CISO can help identify root causes
and improve your security posture over time.
• Lack of Cybersecurity Leadership: In the absence of a clear cybersecurity strategy and
leadership, organizations may struggle to prioritize and implement effective security measures. A
fractional CISO can often bring confident leadership as well as a strategic viewpoint to your
organization.
• Business Model Evolution or Digital Transformation: As organizations undergo digital
transformation or pivot their business models, new security vulnerabilities can emerge. A
fractional CISO can guide your secure adoption of new technologies and processes.
• Supplier and Partner Security Requirements: Increasingly, businesses are required to
demonstrate robust cybersecurity measures to engage in partnerships or serve clients, especially
in B2B environments. A fractional CISO can ensure that your security practices meet or exceed
these expectations so your business gets what it needs.
• Difficulty Attracting or Retaining Cybersecurity Talent: The cybersecurity field is highly
competitive, with a significant talent shortage. A fractional CISO can fill the leadership gap and
help build a stronger internal team by defining roles, responsibilities, and career paths clearly.
• Unclear Security ROI: If your organization struggles to understand the return on investment for
security initiatives, a fractional CISO can help align security spending with business objectives
and demonstrate value.
• Board-Level Concerns About Cyber Risks: When board members express concerns about
cyber risks and the organization’s readiness to address them, it’s a clear signal that the expertise
of a fractional CISO could benefit both strategic planning and board communications.

More subtle, less obvious, indications your organization could benefit from a fractional CISO often
include:

• Inconsistent Security Policies Across Departments: When security policies vary significantly
between departments, it can indicate a lack of cohesive cybersecurity strategy, potentially leading
to vulnerabilities.

Cyber Defense eMagazine – June 2024 Edition 30
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