A v-CISO’s Take on the 5 Issues Facing Cybersecurity

In just 20 years, we’ve seen the cybersecurity field grow from virtually non-existent into a $120 billion industry. But no matter how much it grows, it still feels like the bad guys are always two steps ahead. Why? Because our adversaries are, in fact, at an advantage. This advantage has less to do with our opponents’ skills or expertise than it does with the way in which we, as a society, respond to the threat landscape. Our culture is not ready to put in the work and money necessary to level the playing field. I have a particularly unique vantage point on this issue because my job as a virtual chief information security officer (v-CISO) has put me front and center at some of the most prominent businesses in America—with a view that has included the good, the bad and the ugly. If you’re unfamiliar with the term v-CISO, you’re likely not alone. The role is relatively new. Born out of a growing need for hard-to-find, seasoned security professionals, a v-CISO is an on-demand consultant who serves alongside a company’s leadership team, engaged in the design and execution of the organization’s cybersecurity strategy.