How Much of an Impact Can Cyber-Resilience Certification Make for Businesses?

In the past, companies protected their corporate IT infrastructure with a variety of automated and manual antiviral software suites — relying heavily on technical programmes to protect the sensitive data, information and monetary assets of their business. But, as malware and associated cyber-attacks have gained momentum and ultimately become more sophisticated, the inflexibility offered by traditional anti-malware controls has since deemed this IT security model out-dated and inadequate.

Now, organisations must implement an efficient, adaptable IT security protocol if they’re to combat the growing swathe of cyber-attacks targeting corporate business assets. This has led to an evolution in cyber-security, with out-dated systems being overthrown by new security resources focussed on increased cyber-resilience rather than out-dated technical controls.

Not only that, but the growth in cyber-crime has encouraged many firms to seek experienced IT personnel certified in relevant cyber-resilience programmes — triggering a growing demand for highly-trained security professionals. But how much of an impact can the relevant certification actually have on the on-going security of your business, and is certification in cyber-resilience really necessary?

Traditionally, cyber-security accreditation was focussed on the prevention and diagnosis of incoming attacks, and gave IT practitioners the means to implement technical anti-malware software to safeguard corporate data and information from real-time security threats.

Now however, cyber-resilience has emerged as the go-to accreditation for organisations seeking competent IT security specialists who can not only diagnose and remove threats, but also recognise vulnerabilities and weaknesses across multiple vendor platforms and channels. Senior executives are now actively seeking proficient individuals who can engage in an open, business-orientated dialogue to explain the ongoing vulnerabilities and risks to company data, information and assets.

That said, effective cyber-resilience doesn’t begin and end with one or two certified IT personnel within a business. Instead, a robust, boardroom-led security strategy is needed to implement long-lasting protection against new and emerging cyber threats — a strategy which should extend to all members of staff, not individual IT security practitioners.

Provide all staff with cyber-resilience accreditation however, and organisations will benefit from a steadfast cyber-security model with limited leaks and vulnerabilities. According to a recent IBM study, 95% of cyber-attacks occur as a direct result of staff error — a figure that demonstrates the need for effective, interdepartmental training in the importance of ongoing cyber-resilience.

By providing comprehensive education in the significance of cyber-resilience to all members of staff, organisations will be better prepared to identify, diagnose, prevent and respond to ongoing cyber attacks — thus making cyber-resilience accreditation an effective tool when applied company-wide. Mitigating the risk of future cyber-attacks should rest on the shoulders of all staff members — with the right training and awareness, each employee should feel comfortable undertaking such duties.

At Fast Lane, we offer a number of courses in cyber-resilience for multiple vendor platforms. To find out more about our diverse range of IT training courses, including information on our bespoke company-wide training packages, visit the Fast Lane website or contact our dedicated team on 0845 470 1000, or by e-mail on enquiries@flane.co.uk.