Cybersecurity is more than just a headline associated with attacks on critical infrastructure assets, such as utility companies or our nation’s repository of its personnel records of employees with the highest security clearances. Cybersecurity touches each and every component of our business community from the largest corporation to the smallest “Mom and Pop” shop. The word “critical” is merely a relative term. Yes, the nation would be devastated by an attack on its telecoms or power systems. However, any small and medium-sized business could be equally critically impacted should an attack disrupt or disable their capability to conduct their business regardless of whether they contribute to our national security or they produce bubble gum.
Most companies don’t have security leaders or professionals on their staff, and they have to rely upon the expertise and guidance of those that provide those services to them. Those companies that are large enough to have professional security staff are frequently challenged with knowing what the right level of security is and how to implement it. Most security leaders choose their systems integrator (video, access, alarms and cyber) based on two main criteria “competitive prices and customer service.” Of course the personal relationship with your account executive also plays a major part of your comfort level. This is an incomplete way to make your decisions.