ndkcyber

The Silent Risk at the Heart of Every Business: Your Database

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 16:50:38 GMT

The Silent Risk at the Heart of Every Business: Your Database

We’ve reached a point where keeping data safe isn’t just a box to tick, it’s become a central conversation in boardrooms, product meetings, and now investor updates. And yet, despite all the noise around security strategies and digital transformation, there’s one piece that still doesn’t get the attention it deserves: the database.

Not too long ago, databases were seen as back-end workhorses - static, tucked away, and let’s be honest.... someone else’s problem. But as organizations have grown more data-driven these systems have evolved into high-value targets because that’s where the good stuff lives. Customer records, financials, intellectual property, behavioural insights it’s all sitting there, powering your operations and unfortunately quietly inviting risk.

We’re not just generating more data, we’re generating more sensitive data and we’re doing it faster than ever. Each new integration, digital product, and user interaction adds another layer to an already complex environment. And with that complexity comes risk. The more data you store, the more doors you're unintentionally leaving open. Every record, no matter how small, is a potential entry point for someone who knows how to find and exploit it.

And those “someones” are getting sharper. Cyberattacks have moved well beyond spam emails and brute force logins. Now we’re talking about precision techniques that specifically target databases such as SQL injection, privilege escalation, and credential stuffing. It’s calculated, it’s quiet, and it works. What’s more, not all threats come from outside. Accidental missteps by well-meaning employees or the occasional malicious insider can have just as much impact.

Then there’s regulation. GDPR, HIPAA, CCPA. These have raised the stakes and it’s no longer enough to have good intentions around data. You need to prove you’re in control of it: who accessed what, when, and why. When something goes wrong, it’s not just a matter of cleaning up the mess – it’s fines, legal risk and loss of trust.

This is where Database Activity Monitoring, or DAM, quietly enters the picture and in our view should be front and center. It’s certainly not flashy, but it’s essential. DAM tools give you real-time visibility into what’s actually happening inside your databases. Not just surface-level alerts, but deep insight into behaviour, access patterns, and anomalies. It’s that visibility that helps catch a breach before it escalates and it's also what gives compliance teams something solid to stand on during an audit.

As more organizations shift to the cloud things only get more complicated - multi-cloud setups, hybrid environments, cloud-native databases. These all come with new moving parts and let’s be honest new ways for things to go wrong including misconfigurations, overlooked permissions, unsecured APIs. It’s easy to assume someone else is handling it until it’s too late.

The good news is the security world is catching up as we’re seeing a wave of smarter database security tools. Ones that not only monitor but learn, adapt, and reduce the noise so you’re not buried in alerts. From data masking to automated patching, from granular access control to anomaly detection there’s now a toolkit to meet the scale and complexity of modern environments.

But here’s the things, this can’t just be an IT problem anymore. Database security has to become part of the broader business conversation as it touches everyone. Developers writing queries, compliance teams managing audits, executives making promises to customers. The strongest strategies are the ones where everyone understands what’s at stake and play their part.

In a world where your data is often your most valuable asset, protecting it isn’t just about avoiding disaster -It’s about building a business that people trust. That’s what turns good security into a competitive advantage.

Learn about NDK Cyber

Smarter Systems, Better DevOps?

nick@ndkcyber.com (Nick Kebbell) — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 09:30:34 GMT

Smarter Systems, Better DevOps?

In DevOps, the idea of transformation has become almost routine, each year brings promises of better delivery, improved integration, and enhanced visibility (that might be a triggering sentence if you're in the industry, sorry!). Yet for many teams, those promises do often arrive but with a heavy lift, months of setup, slow rollouts and the burden of reconfiguring existing systems before seeing any of the amazing benefits.

This tension was a hot topic of a recent NDK Tech Future Forward podcast episode, where Shawn Ahmed, Chief Revenue Officer at CloudBees reflected on how DevOps platforms can better serve developers and operators not just in theory, but in the practical sense of saving time and effort from day one.

Ahmed shared a key goal: reducing the time between implementation and real impact. “ We wanted to bring users to the ‘aha’ experience not in months, not even in days, but the moment you connect your system, ” he said. That kind of immediate insight can be a game-changer, especially for teams operating in large complex environments where time and clarity are at a premium.

Rather than asking developers to start from scratch, modern tools should be able to integrate with existing workflows and give meaningful feedback right away. For example, connecting a code repository should automatically trigger code analysis, highlight security concerns, suggest standard workflows and unify relevant data all without bouncing between interfaces or configurations.

This more responsive model shifts the emphasis from simply automating tasks to supporting the decision-making process. Rather than leaving users with static dashboards or isolated alerts the systems can begin to surface insights that are relevant and actionable in context.

Shawn also pointed to an emerging shift toward more natural ways of interacting with DevOps platforms. The idea is not about handing control over to a machine but about simplifying access. He envisions a future where developers can manage their environments through straightforward conversations with a system that understands their intent. That could mean moving away from complex user interfaces and toward more conversational, guided interactions that support rather than interrupt the development process.

For highly regulated industries like finance and banking, these kinds of improvements aren't just about speed. They're about reliability, repeatability and the ability to make informed decisions with confidence. As platforms become better at organising and connecting information across tools, the hope is that they can help users stay ahead of risk rather than react to it.

Of course, any shift in how systems operate brings new considerations. Transparency and trust in how information is presented will matter just as much as technical performance. But what resonated in the Future Forward discussion was a broader idea: DevOps doesn’t necessarily need more tools. What it needs is a better experience for the people using them.

The future of DevOps may not be defined by the next big feature, but by how well platforms support developers in doing their best work. That means less noise and more clarity with tools that don't just work but work with you.

Listen to the full episode of Future Forward with Shawn and Nick here

Why Talent is Your First Brand Investment Post-Funding

nick@ndkcyber.com (Nick Kebbell) — Fri, 30 May 2025 04:32:59 GMT

Why Talent is Your First Brand Investment Post-Funding

When a tech startup secures funding, the instinct is often to double down on product development, customer acquisition, or go-to-market strategy. But the smartest founders know the truth: talent is your first and most impactful brand investment.

After your first funding round, whether it’s Seed, Series A, or beyond, you’re no longer just selling vision. You’re building infrastructure. Your next hires won’t just build product or drive growth, they’ll shape your company’s culture, define your ways of working, and set the tone for everything that follows.

And yet, most startups still treat hiring as a short-term activity, not a brand strategy.

Talent Brand ≠ Recruitment Marketing

Your employer brand is not recruitment marketing . It’s not a flashy careers page or a catchy LinkedIn post. It’s the cumulative perception of what it feels like to work for your company. Post-funding, every candidate interaction, from your job ads to your Glassdoor reviews, from your onboarding emails to how you communicate rejections, becomes a brand touchpoint. If you haven’t already, note down all the brand touchpoints of your business from memory. You can dissect it later.

Post-finding, you're now on the radar of investors, press, future hires, and competitors. Every move matters. Every experience is amplified. And the market is paying attention.

Funding means growth, and with that comes pressure to hire quickly. But hiring right is more important than hiring fast. A poor early hire can set back product timelines, disrupt culture, and even cost you future funding rounds. On the flip side, founders who treat talent brand as part of their growth strategy build teams that accelerate everything: product, culture, growth, and credibility.

And remember, at this point your talent experience becomes your market reputation.

The ROI of Getting This Right Early

Most founders wait too long to think about this. But the returns on early investment in your talent brand are exponential, especially post-funding when every decision compounds.

Up to 28% faster time-to-hire, according to Harvard Business Review
Significant savings in agency spend and early attrition
Increased diversity of thought, which McKinsey links directly to innovation and financial performance
Stronger retention, as a strong employer brand can reduce turnover by up to 28%

By investing early in your employer brand, (your talent) you create a magnet that attracts aligned, high-performing people and filters out the wrong ones. That’s not just culture. That’s strategy.

We work exclusively with AI and tech startups that understand your people are your brand.

We know the market and we have the reputation. Post-funding, your first wave of hires doesn’t just fill seats. They build the foundation. We help you:

Define your talent narrative and culture story
Attract mission-aligned, high-performance hires
Build your reputation as a place top talent wants to be, not just a product company but a purpose company
Create an employer brand that evolves with each funding milestone

We’ve partnered with venture-backed startups across the U.S. to scale AI and tech teams that are not only brilliant, but fully bought in. So, before you spend your marketing budget on cold outreach or PR, invest in your team and let them become your most powerful brand channel.

Get in touch now

Building Security at the Speed of Innovation wit Ankur Shah

hello@meganhillmarketing.com (Megan Hill) — Tue, 27 May 2025 04:56:57 GMT

From Cloud to AI Agents: Building Security at the Speed of Innovation

An exclusive insight from the Secure Insights Podcast with Ankur Shah the Founder and CEO of Straiker.

Fifteen years ago, securing the cloud felt like the cutting edge. Today, we’re in the midst of an even bigger transformation, and the stakes are exponentially higher. In our latest episode of Secure Insights, we sat down with a cybersecurity veteran and serial founder who has built security stacks across mobile, SaaS, cloud, and now AI. His latest venture, Straiker, was born out of the ChatGPT "awakening moment" and is racing ahead to secure the next great tech frontier: agentic AI.

The AI Inflection Point

The launch of ChatGPT wasn’t just a viral moment; it was a clear signal that artificial intelligence had entered the enterprise consciousness. For Straiker’s founder, it was also a personal call to action.

“When ChatGPT came out, I knew instantly this was unlike anything I’d seen before. I had to build in this space.”

Since then, Stryker has emerged as a company laser-focused on enabling secure, rapid AI adoption at scale. With product releases, secured funding, and aggressive hiring all within the first year, the company exemplifies the urgency driving AI innovation.

Why Speed Matters More Than Ever

Unlike previous waves SaaS, mobile, and even cloud, AI is being adopted at breakneck speed. In the cloud era, it took nearly a decade post-EC2 for enterprise adoption to gain momentum. With AI, companies are moving from experimentation to deployment in mere months.

“I've spoken with over 300 enterprise customers. Almost every single one has an AI project underway.”

But with speed comes risk. As adoption accelerates, so do concerns around safety, compliance, and security. That’s where Stryker is staking its claim by helping enterprises move fast without breaking things.

The Shift from SaaS to Agentic AI

One of the most compelling parts of the discussion was the founder’s bold claim:

“SaaS is dead. The future is agentic AI.”

What does this mean? In simple terms, we're moving away from systems driven by hardcoded business logic and static APIs. Instead, we're entering an era where autonomous AI agents interact, reason, and execute tasks dynamically, often using natural language instructions rather than traditional programming.

Imagine an agent that can book your business travel by speaking to your HR system, expense manager, and Booking.com’s agent, all without human intervention or bespoke integrations.

“These agents don’t just pull data. They collaborate—connecting tools, understanding goals, and completing multi-step tasks without brittle code.”

This isn’t some distant future. The groundwork is being laid now, and a handful of forward-thinking enterprises are already experimenting with agent-native applications

Security in an Agent-to-Agent World

However, this brave new world comes with immense complexity from a cybersecurity standpoint. When AI agents are granted access to sensitive systems, HR records, financial data, customer platforms, the risk surface expands dramatically.

“We’re talking about systems where logic isn’t written in code but in natural language. That changes the threat model entirely.”

These agentic systems will need to be secured not just at the data layer, but at the interaction layer ensuring agents don’t overstep their permissions, hallucinate harmful outcomes, or get manipulated by malicious actors.

Final Thoughts: Survival by Speed

Startups are born to die, unless they outrun the default. And in the founder’s words:

“The only way to beat the odds is to move faster than the pace of change.”

For cybersecurity professionals, technologists, and business leaders, the message is clear: AI isn’t coming. It’s already here. The only question is whether your organisation is prepared to adopt—and secure—it at the speed it demands.

NDK Cyber works with cyber leaders to recruit elite talent capable of building and securing next-generation technologies. If you're building in the AI or cloud-native space and need trusted talent to keep pace with innovation, get in touch .

Brand Battles: How Scaleups Can Compete for Talent Against Big Tech

nick@ndkcyber.com (Nick Kebbell) — Tue, 20 May 2025 16:37:09 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Competing for top tech talent has never been more challenging. For scaleups and ambitious SMEs, going up against the likes of Google, Amazon, or Meta can feel like entering a race where the other competitors have jetpacks. With sky-high salaries, global name recognition, and increasingly extravagant perks, Big Tech can be a daunting rival. But here’s the reality: you don’t need their budget to win their candidates.

In fact, individuals are actively seeking more than compensation, they’re looking for purpose, agility, and impact. We speak to top-tier tech professionals every single day from engineers to product leaders and we’re seeing a clear shift in what truly motivates them.

While compensation still matters, it’s no longer the only driver. The pull factors? Mission-driven work, fast-moving environments, and meaningful equity. The push factors? Bureaucracy, lack of ownership, and feeling like just another cog in the machine. In fact, a 2024 LinkedIn survey found that 61% of professionals would take a lower salary to work for a company whose mission they genuinely believe in, a trend we see playing out daily, especially among Gen Z and Millennial candidates who are the most active job-switchers in the market right now.

So, what does this mean for fast-growing businesses looking to scale? It means the opportunity is wide open; if you know how to tell your story. Big brands can offer prestige, but they often struggle to offer transparency. As a smaller, fast-moving company, you have the advantage of authenticity. Candidates want to understand who they’ll be working with, what they’ll be building, and whether their contribution will be visible. Your employer brand doesn’t need to be perfect but it does need to be honest. Sharing the journey, the wins, and even the growing pains can make your company feel more real and far more appealing than the faceless processes of a corporate giant.

Another huge differentiator is equity. While you may not be able to compete on salary alone, you can offer meaningful ownership. For ambitious candidates, the entrepreneurial type who want a stake in what they’re building, this can be a game-changer. In a world where talent is mobile and long-term loyalty is rare, equity, when paired with a strong mission becomes more than just a financial incentive. It becomes a signal of trust and shared ambition.

Speed is another area where scaleups have a clear upper hand. While Big Tech recruitment can be slow and bloated, high-growth companies can often move from CV to offer in a matter of days. This agility doesn’t just impress candidates it builds momentum. Especially in competitive markets like AI, engineering, and data science, the ability to move fast can be the difference between hiring an A-player and losing them to someone else’s pipeline.

Perhaps the most overlooked aspect, though, is what candidates actually value over comp. Sure, financial rewards matter. But so does team culture. So does flexibility. So does the opportunity to learn, make decisions, and have autonomy from day one. A 2023 report from PwC showed that 71% of tech professionals cited “skills development and growth opportunities” as their top reason for joining a new company ahead of salary and benefits.

What this tells us is clear: the new generation of tech talent isn’t just shopping for the highest bidder. They’re looking for environments where they can grow, be heard, and do meaningful work. Scaleups, with their lean teams, fast decision-making, and high levels of ownership, are often perfectly positioned to provide exactly that.

So no, you’re not Google. And that’s a good thing. Because the best talent out there doesn’t just want a big logo on their CV, they want to build something that matters, they to be part of a story, and they want to be a part of telling it.

Secure insights: Voice Cloning, Phishing & the $4.8M Breach: The Rise of Social Engineering

nick@ndkcyber.com (Nick Kebbell) — Thu, 08 May 2025 13:08:00 GMT

Secure insights: Voice Cloning, Phishing & the $4.8M Breach: The Rise of Social Engineering

In the latest episode of Secure Insights, we sat down with Heather Benwell, Chief Marketing Officer at ChallengeWord, to discuss one of the most rapidly growing threats in cybersecurity today: social engineering.

Social engineering has evolved into one of the most dangerous and rapidly growing threats in modern cybersecurity. With a staggering 442% rise in voice phishing (vishing) and 98% of cyberattacks now leveraging some form of human manipulation,

the traditional security perimeter is no longer defined by firewalls and passwords, it’s defined by people.

“This is not just about phishing emails anymore,” warns Heather. “We’re talking voice cloning, deepfakes, AI-generated scripts, tools that make attackers frighteningly convincing.”

Social engineering exploits trust, urgency, and fear. Attackers create a sense of pressure, threatening consequences or offering rewards, to trick individuals into giving up credentials, transferring money, or clicking malicious links. And now, with advanced

AI tools in play, these tactics are more polished and harder to spot than ever before. Benoit’s company, ChallengeWord, is pioneering a new approach to combat this surge in real-time deception. Unlike traditional MFA, which verifies devices or credentials, ChallengeWord authenticates people, especially during voice interactions where social engineering thrives. The solution integrates with familiar SSO providers like Google and Microsoft, allowing users to validate callers using a pre-agreed

"challenge word."

“It gives people the power to challenge a potential impersonator without feeling awkward or accusatory.”

The statistics speak for themselves:

• 98% of all cyberattacks now involve social engineering.

• Organizations face more than 700 social engineering attempts annually.

• The average cost of a data breach in 2024 is $4.8 million.

The real-world impact of these tactics is devastating. Heather references the 2023 MGM breach, where attackers successfully impersonated IT staff to reset credentials and shut down critical systems causing major operational and financial fallout. Another case resulted in a $45 million settlement linked to a similar attack vector.

“These aren’t isolated incidents. They’re happening every day to companies of all sizes,” she says. “And they’re getting more personal, more targeted, and harder to detect.”

So, how can organizations fight back? She outlines a layered, people-first approach to defence:

• Adopt identity verification solutions like ChallengeWord.

• Train employees through regular phishing simulations and social engineering drills.

• Foster a culture of questioning, where staff feel empowered to double-check requests, even from internal sources.

“I know a cybersecurity expert who got phished despite having access to breach data,” Heather admits. “The point is, no one’s immune. The moment we get complacent is the moment we get compromised.”

Today it’s no longer enough to just invest in stronger firewalls or smarter AI filters. Human behaviour is both the biggest risk and greatest opportunity in cybersecurity. As attackers evolve, our defences must be built not just on tech but on trust, training, and smarter identity checks.

“Attackers are getting smarter,”. “So must we.”

Check out the full episode with Heather:

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/eHSj6949

Amazon: https://lnkd.in/eaNPmsHM

Apple: https://lnkd.in/eSgCUfBP

Should Your CEO Be Posting “We’re Hiring”?

Wed, 07 May 2025 15:59:59 GMT

A Strategic Look at Signal vs. Substance

It’s a familiar sight on LinkedIn, a founder or CEO enthusiastically posts:

“We’re hiring — come join us!”

It’s human, it’s passionate, and it feels authentic. But while this kind of visibility can help in the early days, it’s important to consider what these posts communicate beyond the surface — especially as your startup begins to scale.

At NDKtech , we support high-growth companies in building long-term talent strategies — not just filling roles. And while there's certainly a time and place for founder-led hiring posts, it’s worth thinking through the broader message they send.

What It Might Signal

1. Gaps in Infrastructure

When a CEO is the one making general hiring announcements, it can sometimes suggest:

There’s no clear talent function in place
The company is still reliant on founder networks
Hiring hasn’t been systemised yet

For seasoned candidates or investors, this can raise the question:
"Is this company ready to scale sustainably?"

2. Blurred Focus at the Top

If the CEO is publicly managing hiring pipelines, it can imply they’re still in the weeds. While hands-on leadership is a strength early on, scale requires leverage.

This isn’t about ego — it’s about perception. A founder deeply involved in every operational task might unintentionally signal lack of delegation or resourcing.

3. Mixed Signals Around Strategy

“We’re hiring!” is only as compelling as the context behind it.
Without clarity: What roles? What growth story? Why now? posts like this can come across as reactive, rather than part of a coherent hiring narrative.

When It Does Work

Founder visibility is still valuable. A thoughtful CEO post, especially when paired with milestones like funding rounds, product launches, or expansion can attract mission-aligned talent and humanise the brand.

The key is alignment:

The CEO introduces the why
A talent partner delivers the how

This shows a well-structured business with vision and operational maturity. Rather than the founder managing everything publicly, a strategic external partner signals:

There’s a clear hiring plan in place
The company values long-term people strategy
Processes exist beyond the founder’s network

It gives your CEO space to lead while ensuring candidates experience a credible, professional, and joined-up hiring journey.

There’s no hard rule against CEOs posting about hiring but as your company grows, every public message sends a signal. A strong talent function behind the scenes helps ensure that message reflects structure, not scramble.

Want to strengthen your talent engine and signal maturity to the market?

Let’s talk . We help high-growth tech companies scale confidently and credibly.

NDK TECH: Building a Scalable Talent Engine After Series A Funding

nick@ndkcyber.com (Nick Kebbell) — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 12:02:28 GMT

Building a Scalable Talent Engine After Series A Funding

Securing a Series A is a defining moment for any AI startup, a signal to the market that your product and vision are worth backing. But with this influx of capital comes heightened expectations and a new challenge: scaling with precision and pace.

Many startups falter at this juncture, in fact 70% of startups fail within the first 20 months after raising their Series A.

When this starts to happen Talent Acquisition becomes reactive, hiring is driven by urgency rather than alignment, and founders find themselves caught between building the product and building the team. The result? Costly mis-hires, culture drift, and operational drag.

To move from post-funding chaos to clarity, a startup must approach hiring not as a scramble, but as a strategic function.

1. Build Systems for People; Not Just Product

Most founders know how to ship product. But building the team that ships it? That’s a different game. Rather than trying to create internal hiring infrastructure from scratch, smart startups bring in external support to:

Design scalable, stage-appropriate hiring workflows.

Define clear, consistent interview and evaluation processes.

Ensure alignment between founders, hiring managers, and tech leads.

This creates structure without overhead — and keeps you focused on what matters most.

2. Bring in Strategic Support; Without Overbuilding

At this stage, it’s tempting to make senior People hires to 'get ahead.' But early on, the real value lies in execution, building the right team, fast, and getting it right the first time.

External recruitment partners can:

Lead hiring strategy with deep market expertise.

Build and execute sustainable onboarding and retention frameworks.

Act as a bridge between your growth ambitions and the talent needed to achieve them.

You get the benefits of strategic talent support, without prematurely scaling your internal team or getting bogged down in process.

3. Precision Drives Performance

Hiring at speed doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality. The right partner will help you:

Prioritise the right hires at the right time.

Avoid costly mis-hires that can derail timelines and morale.

Build a culture and operating rhythm that supports sustainable growth.

Startups that scale well treat talent acquisition as a core business function, not an afterthought.

The best AI companies don't wait for hiring challenges to become blockers, they invest early in smart, external support that adapts to their pace of growth.

At NDK Tech.ai, we help AI and deep tech startups build high-impact teams that scale with precision. Whether you’ve just raised your Series A or are preparing for your next round, we design and deliver the hiring systems that fuel your momentum.

Let’s talk about how we can help get in touch here

Learn more about NDKTECH.ai here

"The biggest risk is using AI without proper safeguards"

nick@ndkcyber.com (Nick Kebbell) — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 13:28:06 GMT

Secure Insights Podcast: New Episode Featuring Mohit Tiwari on DSPM and AI in Data Security

In the latest episode of Secure Insights, Rosie sat down with Mohit Tiwari, the Founder and CEO of Symmetry Systems, to dive into Data Security Posture Management (DSPM ) and its pivotal role in protecting data across cloud environments. With his extensive experience in cybersecurity, Mohit provides deep insights into the current and future landscape of data security, particularly how DSPM is becoming a critical solution for organizations to secure their data in a cloud-driven world.

Key Insights from Mohit Tiwari:

According to Mohit, the critical first step for organizations is identifying their primary use case and implementing DSPM without hesitation. He advises, "If you're already using a CSPM product that has an embedded DSPM, just start using it. Don’t wait." Mohit emphasizes that DSPM doesn’t need to be an isolated solution, it can coexist with existing security products, even if they are part of privacy or cloud security tools. The key is understanding how identities, both human and non-human, access and use data across multiple platforms.

As businesses move toward more sophisticated data access control, Mohit foresees DSPM and AI evolving into their own distinct category within cybersecurity. "It’s about abstracting how permissions and data flows are managed across infrastructure," he explains. This abstraction layer, he notes, can help answer complex questions such as whether a privileged user accessed sensitive information or if contractors are handling data correctly. The integration of data and identity authorization into a single layer will be essential for compliance, incident response, and security architecture as organizations seek to protect their sensitive data.

The Role of AI in DSPM

AI’s growing role in DSPM is also a major topic in the conversation. Mohit highlights that AI is becoming a security standard, making data security tools smarter and more proactive. At Symmetry Systems, AI is used to provide highly specific analysis while maintaining privacy by not pulling customer data out of their environment. "We use purpose-built AI for very specific questions to reduce noise and improve precision," says Mohit. This ensures that AI-powered tools can offer deep insights without inadvertently exposing sensitive information.

However, Mohit also stresses the importance of using AI with caution. "The biggest risk is using AI without proper safeguards," he cautions. Malicious actors could exploit AI models to inject harmful actions or manipulate data. To mitigate this risk, he recommends applying AI in DSPM carefully and ensuring that security systems are designed with robust integration capabilities to create a seamless, secure experience across various tools and platforms.

The Future of DSPM

Looking ahead, Mohit sees the DSPM field growing rapidly, with a wide variety of solutions emerging. Symmetry Systems has positioned itself as a leader by focusing on customer-specific solutions that map identities and operations rather than just classifying data. "We’re barely scratching the surface of measuring security posture across multiple clouds," he says, hinting at the company’s plans to expand its reach in this space.

Data security and AI are increasingly intertwined, Mohit’s insights underscore the importance of proactive security measures that go beyond traditional methods. As DSPM continues to mature, organizations must quickly adapt to stay ahead of emerging threats and protect their most valuable asset; data.

Listen to the full episode now wherever you get your podcasts. Stay updated with the latest trends and developments in cybersecurity. Be sure to subscribe for future episodes!

The CRO isn't a luxury hire, they’re foundational.

nick@ndkcyber.com (Nick Kebbell) — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 08:58:08 GMT

CROs in Cybersecurity: Driving Revenue in AI-Enhanced Markets. Do You Have One?

Every day, we work across all facets of cybersecurity: from recruiting talent at every level, to examining business plans, to understanding the long-term vision. We see firsthand how the sector is adapting, how innovation is being shaped, and how businesses are positioning themselves for the future.

What have we found? AI is no longer a buzzword, it's at the core of everything we do, from the tools we build to the solutions we deliver, and crucially, how we drive growth. As companies race to build smarter solutions, many are overlooking a key role in the growth equation: the Chief Revenue Officer (CRO).

Let’s talk about why that matters.

The CRO isn't a luxury hire, they’re foundational.

Especially in cybersecurity, where technical buyers demand more than slick dashboards, and where AI-driven capabilities are pushing the edge of what's possible, the CRO is the glue that binds product, market, and growth strategy together.

If you’re a CEO or founder still relying on heroic efforts from siloed teams, ask yourself this:

Is it time to bring in someone who sees the whole picture?

Because in 2025, cybersecurity growth isn’t just about what you build, it’s about how you sell it, and who leads that charge.

From Sales Leader to Strategic Growth Architect

Traditionally, sales teams in cybersecurity operated in silos, one group focused on enterprise, another on mid-market, with marketing doing its own thing and customer success scrambling to keep up post-sale. The CRO changes that.

Today’s CRO is not just a glorified sales leader. They're a cross-functional growth architect who connects dots between product, marketing, sales, partnerships, and customer success. They're responsible for building a repeatable, scalable revenue engine and in a market where AI is changing buyer behaviour, that’s no small task.

In cybersecurity, buyers are more informed and cautious than ever. They’re asking better questions. They expect tailored solutions. The CRO’s job is to make sure the entire commercial engine is aligned to meet that.

The AI Effect on Go-To-Market Strategy

According to a 2024 McKinsey report, over 70% of cybersecurity vendors now claim some form of AI integration. But marketing buzzwords don’t close deals. Clarity, credibility, and customer trust do. That’s where the CRO earns their stripes.

With AI pushing the market toward more complex, data-driven offerings, think behaviour-based threat detection, automated response frameworks, or predictive compliance tools and the CRO helps translate technical capabilities into commercial value. They help teams position products in a way that resonates with CFOs, CISOs, and boards alike.

They also adapt GTM strategies to suit different market maturity levels. Selling an AI-powered detection engine to a Fortune 500 bank looks wildly different from onboarding a high-growth scaleup with a lean security team. The CRO ensures the playbook fits both.

Global spending for cybersecurity is projected to reach over $215 billion in 2025, yet many vendors are still fighting for market share with limited traction. Why? Because they’re product-strong but revenue-weak.

“It’s not uncommon to see brilliant security tech fall flat because the GTM execution isn’t built for scale. That’s what a CRO fixes,” “You can’t rely on founder-led sales forever.”

A good CRO brings in discipline: pipeline hygiene, forecasting accuracy, win-loss analysis, and customer expansion strategies. But a great CRO brings in adaptability, knowing when to double down on a sales-led motion vs. when to lean into product-led growth or strategic partnerships.

In markets influenced by AI where features evolve quickly and differentiation is short-lived, this adaptability is the difference between momentum and mediocrity.

Whether you're building your go-to-market team from scratch or scaling into new regions, the CRO isn't a luxury hire, they're actually a foundational one.

Especially in cybersecurity, where technical buyers need more than flashy dashboards and where AI-driven tools are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, the CRO is the glue that holds the commercial strategy together.

If you’re a CEO or founder relying on heroic efforts from siloed teams, ask yourself: is it time to bring in someone who sees the full picture? Because in 2025, cybersecurity

Opinion Piece: Cybersecurity in the USA, a closer look from the front lines

hello@meganhillmarketing.com (Megan Hill) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 09:31:14 GMT

Cybersecurity in the USA: A Closer Look from the Front Lines
An Opinion Piece by NDK Cyber

At NDK Cyber, we sit at the crossroads of technology, security, and business resilience. Recent cybersecurity incidents across the United States are not just reminders, they’re wake-up calls. The threats are no longer theoretical, and our response can no longer be reactive. We believe that a proactive, strategy-driven approach to cybersecurity, backed by deep technical expertise and multi-sector collaboration, is the path forward.

A Threat Landscape That’s Grown Smarter and More Ruthless

In the last few months, we’ve seen cyber threats escalate in both scale and sophistication. Ransomware campaigns like Medusa have weaponized access to cloud-based email systems such as Gmail and Outlook, using advanced phishing kits and data exfiltration techniques. Many of these attacks leverage automation, machine learning, and multi-stage payloads to bypass traditional defenses.

More concerning is the growing use of adversary-in-the-middle (AiTM) attacks and living-off-the-land binaries (LOLBins), which allow threat actors to operate stealthily using built-in system tools. Behavioral analytics powered by AI and machine learning are now essential to identifying anomalies in real time and flagging subtle indicators of compromise.

RansomHub and the Rise of RaaS Ecosystems

The emergence of RansomHub, a new ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) operation, is another sign that cybercrime has become scalable. These operations rely on affiliates to deploy ransomware payloads, while centralized “operators” manage infrastructure, negotiations, and payouts. It's a mature business model, unfortunately, on the wrong side of the law.

To effectively combat this, organizations need to invest in real-time telemetry, extended detection and response (XDR), and AI-driven threat correlation engines that can detect abnormal behavior across endpoints, users, and cloud workloads before damage is done.

AI in Cybersecurity: A Force Multiplier

Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming one of the most powerful tools in the defender’s arsenal. From automated threat detection to AI-assisted SOC operations, the ability to analyze massive volumes of data and surface actionable insights is transforming security operations.

Machine learning models are now being embedded in everything from email security gateways to endpoint protection platforms. These models can identify previously unseen malware strains, detect lateral movement patterns, and even assist in forensic investigations by reconstructing attack timelines.

Generative AI is also being explored for use in red teaming, simulating realistic phishing lures or crafting adversarial payloads, showing both the opportunity and risk of AI in cyber contexts. On the flip side, AI-powered phishing detection, anomaly detection, and natural language analysis for insider threats are rapidly maturing.

But AI is not a silver bullet. These tools are only as effective as the data they're trained on and the expertise guiding their deployment. Security leaders must remain vigilant about AI model bias, false positives, and adversarial manipulation.

Big Tech’s Cybersecurity Moves: What They Signal

Google’s $32 billion acquisition of Wiz, a leader in cloud-native application protection, underscores the urgency of securing dynamic cloud environments. Technologies like cloud security posture management (CSPM) and cloud workload protection platforms (CWPPs) are becoming mission-critical.

Many of these solutions increasingly leverage AI for continuous compliance monitoring and anomaly detection across containers, serverless functions, and identity management systems. Collaboration between tech giants, security vendors, and regulators will be vital in setting new standards for responsible AI use in cybersecurity.

Healthcare and Critical Infrastructure: A Call for Zero Trust

The Change Healthcare breach, which impacted the data of over 100 million people, reminds us that critical infrastructure is often built on fragile digital foundations. In sectors like healthcare, AI-driven risk scoring can help identify vulnerable assets, prioritize patching, and support faster incident response.

However, many organizations are still operating without a zero trust architecture. Segmenting networks, enforcing identity-based access controls, and using AI-powered behavior analytics can significantly reduce the attack surface in these high-stakes environments.

The Talent Crisis: A Bottleneck for Innovation

While tools and frameworks are evolving, the human layer remains a critical bottleneck. The shortage of cybersecurity professionals is especially pronounced in cloud security, OT security, and incident response. The gap isn’t just in headcount, it’s in domain expertise.

At NDK Cyber, we help companies build and scale elite security teams, connecting them with top-tier talent in red teaming, blue teaming, GTM sales teams and beyond. But hiring is only part of the solution. We need sustainable pipelines that combine early education, certification programs like CISSP, OSCP, and GIAC, and greater diversity and accessibility across the field.

As AI becomes more central to cybersecurity, demand for professionals who understand both domains, security and data science will only grow. Upskilling the workforce to operate alongside intelligent systems will be critical.

Cybersecurity as a Business Imperative

Cybersecurity isn’t just an IT problem it’s a boardroom priority. It touches everything: brand reputation, customer trust, compliance, and operational continuity. Security should be embedded into every stage of the business—from M&A due diligence to product design to cloud migration.

AI can enhance this integration by providing continuous risk insights at the executive level, enabling smarter decision-making and more agile response strategies.

The future of cybersecurity is powered by innovation and shaped by collaboration. Whether it’s AI-driven threat detection, intelligent automation in the SOC, or public-private information sharing, our greatest progress will come from working together.

At NDK Cyber, we believe resilience begins with talent, thrives on innovation, and succeeds through strategic alignment. Cybersecurity is not a checkbox it’s a mindset. And in this fast-moving landscape, it’s the organizations that adapt, invest, and lead that will define the future of digital trust.

How AI, ML, and Cloud are Transforming Cybersecurity Defences

nick@ndkcyber.com (Nick Kebbell) — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 11:17:50 GMT

How AI, ML, and Cloud are Transforming Cybersecurity Defences

We aren’t saying anything groundbreaking when we tell you cyber threats are growing in complexity and volume, but organisations must adopt advanced technologies to maintain a robust security posture. But implementing these tools effectively is not as simple as it sounds. Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Cloud computing are key components of modern cybersecurity strategies, offering adaptive, scalable, and intelligent defences. Here’s a deeper look at how these technologies can be leveraged for stronger security.

AI & ML: Enhancing Threat Detection and Response

Traditional cybersecurity measures depend on predefined rules and signature-based detection, which often fail against emerging and sophisticated threats. AI and ML transform this approach by enabling security systems to learn from vast datasets, detect anomalies, and anticipate attacks before they materialise.

Advanced Adversarial Machine Learning Detection : Cybercriminals are weaponising ML techniques to deceive AI-driven security systems, introducing adversarial inputs that evade detection. Developing robust, adversarial-resistant ML models is critical for maintaining cybersecurity integrity.

Automated Threat Hunting : AI-powered analytics identify subtle indicators of compromise (IoCs) in real time, proactively scanning networks and endpoints for malicious activity before traditional defences can recognise a threat.

Self-Healing Systems : The future of AI-driven cybersecurity involves self-repairing systems capable of detecting vulnerabilities and automatically correcting misconfigurations, minimising the risk of exploitation without human intervention.

Cloud Computing: Securing a Distributed Workforce

While cloud environments offer agility and scalability, they also introduce unique security challenges that demand innovative solutions.

Confidential Computing : This technology ensures that sensitive data remains encrypted even during active processing, reducing the risk of exposure in shared or multi-tenant cloud environments.

Homomorphic Encryption : A cutting-edge cryptographic method that enables computation on encrypted data without decrypting it, providing enhanced data security in cloud applications and reducing the risk of breaches.

Cloud-Native Security Posture Management (CNSPM) : As cloud infrastructure grows in complexity, CNSPM tools continuously monitor and enforce security policies, detecting misconfigurations, compliance violations, and potential security gaps across multi-cloud environments.

AI in Compliance & Governance

Regulatory compliance is a growing concern, with standards like GDPR, CCPA, NIST, and ISO 27001 requiring organizations to implement strict security measures. AI-driven security solutions help automate compliance by:

Conducting real-time audits and monitoring security controls
Automatically generating compliance reports to meet regulatory frameworks
Identifying and classifying sensitive data to enforce data protection policies

For example, AI-powered Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM) tools continuously assess cloud configurations against compliance benchmarks, ensuring businesses stay aligned with regulatory requirements.

Industry Statistics

�� AI-powered security reduces the cost of breaches by an average of $3.05 million , according to IBM’s 2023 Cost of a Data Breach Report.

�� 84% of organizations are increasing their investment in AI and automation for cybersecurity, per a recent Capgemini Research Institute report.

�� Zero Trust adoption has surged by 230% since 2020 , with 92% of organizations planning to implement Zero Trust Security (ZTS) by 2026 , according to Gartner.

�� CSPM adoption is expected to grow by 25% annually as enterprises shift towards multi-cloud environments, according to Forrester Research .

The integration of AI, ML, and Cloud technology is shaping the next generation of cybersecurity strategies. By leveraging these tools effectively, the transition from reactive security models to proactive, predictive defences can be smoother. This convergence minimises attack surfaces, enhances automated response mechanisms, and ensures compliance in an ever-changing threat landscape.

At NDK Cyber , we specialise in helping businesses navigate this transition by connecting them with top-tier cybersecurity talent. As AI, ML, and Cloud technologies continue to redefine security strategies, having access to skilled professionals is essential for staying ahead of cyber threats

Get in touch : to learn how we can support your cybersecurity hiring needs and future-proof your organisation’s defences.

We’ve more than likely worked with a business exactly like yours, read our case studies here.

The Intersection of Cybersecurity Talent and Product GTM Strategies

nick@ndkcyber.com (Nick Kebbell) — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 14:52:24 GMT

The Intersection of Cybersecurity Talent and Product GTM Strategies

Go-to-market (GTM) strategies in cybersecurity extend far beyond product launches, they shape the foundation of a company’s competitive advantage. With global cybercrime costs projected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025 (Cybersecurity Ventures), organizations must integrate a talent-first approach into their GTM strategy to ensure not only product differentiation but also seamless market adoption and revenue acceleration.

The Intersection of Cybersecurity Talent and Product GTM Strategies

A cybersecurity product’s success hinges on the expertise of the teams driving it. Organizations that strategically align their talent acquisition with their GTM strategy experience:

Faster market penetration – Companies with specialized cybersecurity sales and marketing talent achieve up to 36% higher win rates (Forrester).
Stronger revenue growth – Cybersecurity vendors that prioritize industry-specific expertise in hiring see 20-25% faster sales cycles.
Higher credibility and trust – CISOs and security buyers expect vendors to demonstrate deep technical expertise, making talent a critical component of GTM success.

A high-performing GTM strategy ensures that skilled professionals drive sales, marketing, and customer success while product messaging directly addresses the security pain points of CISOs, security teams, and compliance leaders. It equips sales teams to confidently navigate technical objections and articulate product value with authority, ultimately accelerating adoption and strengthening market positioning.

Key Elements of a Cybersecurity GTM Strategy

1. Understanding Your Ideal Customer Profile (ICP)

Cybersecurity buying cycles are intricate and vary significantly across industries. Defining a precise ICP ensures that GTM efforts are aligned with:

Regulatory challenges – Compliance concerns differ across sectors, from GDPR and CCPA in data privacy to NIST and ISO 27001 in enterprise security.
Budget allocation – Enterprise security teams typically allocate 10-14% of IT spending to cybersecurity (Gartner).
Decision-making structures – Enterprise security purchases often require multi-stakeholder buy-in, whereas mid-market firms rely on fewer decision-makers.

2. Building the Right Sales and Marketing Teams

Cybersecurity vendors frequently struggle with sales teams that lack deep security expertise. Hiring technical sales engineers , security-focused product marketers , and business development professionals with industry experience leads to:

Greater technical credibility – 75% of security buyers prefer vendors whose GTM teams include former security practitioners (IDC).
Higher conversion rates – Sales professionals with cybersecurity backgrounds close 32% more deals on average.

To read about the importance of product marketing in your GTM strategy, we wrote a blog on it here .

3. Aligning Talent with Business Growth

It seems like an obvious one, but scaling a cybersecurity business demands a targeted hiring strategy. Companies that invest in security-specialized talent for sales, marketing, and product functions experience:

Lower churn – Industry-experienced employees are 40% less likely to leave compared to generalist hires.
Faster product adoption – Security teams prefer working with vendors that employ professionals who understand their operational challenges.

4. Positioning and Messaging

With thousands of cybersecurity solutions competing for attention, differentiation is key. Effective messaging must:

Address critical security concerns – CISOs prioritize solutions that enhance threat detection, risk mitigation, and compliance automation.
Demonstrate ROI – Security investments need to show measurable reductions in risk exposure and incident response costs.
Leverage real-world case studies – Security leaders trust tangible success stories over generic value propositions.

5. Sales Enablement and Training

Security buyers expect vendors to engage at a technical level. A strong sales enablement strategy includes:

Hands-on technical training – 68% of security buyers are more likely to engage with sales reps who can demo products in live environments.
Industry-specific case studies – Proven success in finance, healthcare, or critical infrastructure increases trust.
Competitive intelligence – Sales teams should articulate how their solution outperforms alternatives on security efficacy, compliance, and ease of deployment.

6. Strategic Partnerships and Market Influence

The right partnerships accelerate credibility and market reach. Key strategies include:

Technology integrations – Seamless compatibility with SIEM, SOAR, and EDR tools increases adoption.
Channel partnerships – MSSPs and cybersecurity consultancies provide trusted recommendations to enterprise buyers.
Compliance certifications – SOC 2, FedRAMP, and ISO 27001 certifications enhance credibility and shorten procurement cycles.

Hiring for GTM Success in Cybersecurity

Organizations that prioritize security expertise gain a measurable advantage. Companies with cybersecurity-specialized GTM professionals achieve:

28% higher deal sizes – Security buyers are more inclined to trust vendors with deep industry knowledge.
Shorter sales cycles – Understanding security decision-making processes streamlines procurement.
Stronger brand authority – Vendors with recognized technical credibility establish thought leadership faster.

At NDK Cyber , we are experts at helping cybersecurity companies build high-performing GTM teams that drive revenue and market expansion. Whether you’re scaling sales and marketing or need expert hiring strategies, we can help.

The most successful cybersecurity vendors don’t just invest in technology, they invest in people . At NDK Cyber , we are experts at helping cybersecurity companies build high-performing GTM teams that drive revenue and market expansion. Whether you’re scaling sales and marketing or need expert hiring strategies, we can help.

Need to build a cybersecurity GTM team? Get in touch.

The Hidden Force Behind Scaling Cybersecurity Startups

nick@ndkcyber.com (Nick Kebbell) — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 14:01:17 GMT

The Hidden Force Behind Scaling Cybersecurity Startups

A breakthrough product isn’t enough. In cybersecurity, where threats evolve daily and competition is relentless, standing out requires more than just innovation. The real growth engine? Product marketing.

More Than Just Marketing

Product marketing is the bridge between your product and the people who need it most. It’s not about flashy campaigns—it’s about ensuring the right message reaches the right audience at the right time. It answers key questions: What problem does your product solve? Who needs it most? And why should they care?

Breaking Through the Noise

The cybersecurity space is crowded. Success doesn’t come from claiming to be “faster” or “more secure.” It comes from articulating a unique value that resonates with CISOs, security teams, and compliance officers. What keeps them up at night? Threat detection gaps? Compliance risks? Operational inefficiencies? A strong product marketing strategy transforms these concerns into compelling narratives that drive engagement and trust.

Navigating the Complex Sales Cycle

Selling cybersecurity solutions isn’t straightforward. Multiple stakeholders, from CISOs to security engineers and procurement teams, each have different priorities. Product marketing tailors messaging for each:

CISOs care about risk reduction and ROI.
Security Engineers want technical depth and seamless integrations.
Procurement & Compliance Teams focus on cost, regulations, and reliability.

Trust is everything in this industry. Third-party validations—Gartner rankings, MITRE evaluations, and customer testimonials—help establish credibility and remove doubts.

Speaking the Right Language

Cybersecurity buyers are technical, but they don’t want a wall of jargon. The challenge is balancing depth with clarity—too much complexity alienates decision-makers, while oversimplification raises doubts. The best product marketing speaks directly to security professionals without losing them in unnecessary detail.

Adapting to Different Growth Models

Whether scaling through a Product-Led Growth (PLG) model, enterprise sales, or channel partnerships, product marketing adapts:

PLG : Focus on seamless onboarding and user-driven expansion.
Enterprise Sales : Thought leadership content (whitepapers, webinars) builds trust.
Channel Partnerships : Equip partners with materials that make selling your product effortless.

Content as a Growth Driver

Cybersecurity buyers do their research long before reaching out. A strong content strategy positions your startup as a trusted authority:

Insightful blog posts on emerging threats
Research reports with data-driven insights
Webinars and podcasts featuring industry experts
Engaging LinkedIn content to foster community and credibility

Constant Refinement for Lasting Impact

A winning go-to-market strategy isn’t static—it evolves. Tracking key metrics like customer acquisition cost, win rates, and pipeline conversion ensures ongoing success. Collaboration between product, sales, and customer success teams keeps everything aligned and effective.

The Bottom Line

In the race to cybersecurity dominance, product marketing is the difference between blending in and leading. It helps startups:

Clearly define their market position
Craft messaging that resonates
Align teams for seamless execution

Done right, product marketing isn’t just another function, it’s the secret weapon that fuels sustainable growth.

NDK Cyber Partners with ISTARI to Elevate Global Cyber Leadership

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 10:25:53 GMT

NDK Cyber Partners with ISTARI to Elevate Global Cyber Leadership

NDK Cyber is proud to announce a strategic partnership with ISTARI, a global cybersecurity platform. Together, we will not only help ISTARI’s portfolio companies find top-tier talent but also support their vision of elevating cyber professionals to senior business leadership roles.

Both NDK Cyber and ISTARI are committed to investing in the development of cyber leaders, enhancing resilience through knowledge-sharing, thought leadership, and global events. This partnership includes the prestigious Navigator programme, run in collaboration with the University of Cambridge Judge Business School, which is one of the few global initiatives focused on advancing cyber leadership within an elite business school environment.

Together, NDK Cyber and ISTARI are committed to shaping the future of cyber leadership, creating a stronger, more secure digital landscape.

"It’s no secret that NDK Cyber have been supporting the next generation of cybersecurity talent for a long time, it’s something we are incredibly passionate about. By supporting programmes like Navigator, we help cyber leaders grow into executive roles, strengthening businesses for the future," said Nick Kebbell, Founder and CEO at NDK Cyber.

About NDK Cyber: NDK Cyber is a global leader in cybersecurity talent, specialising in placing elite candidates in leadership roles to build resilient organisations.

For more information, please contact: Nick Kebbell

Founder, CEO

NDK Cyber

Nick@ndkcyber.com

Jun 01, 2021

THE ADOPTION OF DSPM AND CSPM

Sat, 27 Jul 2024 13:48:44 GMT

The Adoption of DSPM and CSPM

We don’t need to explain how cloud computing has revolutionized data storage, processing, and sharing, it’s been transformative. However, let's discuss the security challenges that have emerged alongside this evolution.

With the increase in unstructured data, safeguarding these environments has become critical. The rapid growth of unstructured data further complicates the situation. Remote and hybrid work models mean employees access SaaS applications from various locations and devices, often using both corporate and personal accounts, and frequently share data. This makes tracking data locations and managing access permissions increasingly difficult, even for the most secure organizations. While managing software is straightforward, managing people is not so much.

This complexity has driven the adoption of Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM). Though initially popular, CSPM is now being overshadowed by Data Security Posture Management (DSPM). Let’s delve into what they are and their differences:

What is the Importance of DSPM and CSPM

Enterprises today face three major data challenges:

1. Rapid data growth
2. Large-scale migration to cloud environments
3. Handling diverse data types (such as financial, intellectual, business confidential, and regulated data like PCI/PHI) in increasingly complex settings

As cloud computing becomes the norm, traditional security solutions for on-premises systems often just don't cut it in cloud environments. That’s where DSPM and CSPM come in. Traditional security tools can't keep up with the fast pace of changes in the cloud, but CSPM and DSPM are built to be agile and adaptable. The dynamic, ever- changing nature of cloud environments means there's a growing need for solutions like CSPM and DSPM.

Let’s talk some facts and stats:

Data breaches: IBM reported that the average cost of a data breach in 2023 was $4.45 million.

Cloud misconfigurations: Gartner predicted in 2019 that by 2025, 99% of cloud security failures would be due to customer misconfigurations.

AI in Security: According to a 2023 Capgemini report, 74% of executives believe the benefits of generative AI outweigh the concerns.

CSPM

CSPM is like a watchdog for your cloud environment, constantly evaluating its security posture and providing real-time insights to detect and address potential risks. As Gartner puts it, CSPM solutions are all about continuously monitoring and managing the security of IaaS and PaaS oDerings, with a strong focus on preventing, detecting, and responding to threats in cloud infrastructure.

These tools use a mix of automated processes and good old manual assessments to keep an eye on your cloud setup. They scan for vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and compliance issues, and then give you recommendations on how to fix them.

Advantages

CSPM leverages AI and automation to quickly identify threats and automate remediation, monitoring resources across cloud environments like Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud.

Key benefits:

Enhanced control: Organizations can enforce cloud security policies and ensure compliance with evolving regulations.

Integrated solutions: CSPM connects with existing tools, streamlining threat mitigation across large-scale environments.

Continuous monitoring: CSPM provides ongoing oversight of cloud resources across multiple environments.

Actionable insights: CSPM oDers recommendations to improve security posture and helps monitor legal and regulatory compliance changes.

Comparing CSPM to DSPM

CSPM scans cloud resources to identify infrastructure-level vulnerabilities, whereas DSPM focuses on securing the data layer, identifying sensitive data, monitoring risks, and fixing permissions and sharing settings.

Understanding DSPM

DSPM is dedicated to data security, identifying and protecting business-critical data. Unlike CSPM, which is data agnostic, DSPM recognizes that diDerent data types require distinct security measures.

Key Differences

Focus: CSPM targets infrastructure-level vulnerabilities; DSPM addresses data layer risks.

Integration: CSPM integrates with cloud service providers; DSPM connects with data storage and management systems.

Functionality: CSPM identifies and addresses security risks in real-time; DSPM ensures continuous monitoring and compliance.

Leveraging AI in DSPM

Modern DSPM tools utilize AI to autonomously detect and fix risks, offering advanced data analysis, predictive threat modeling, and automated responses to security incidents.

The Combined Power of CSPM and DSPM

While CSPM and DSPM serve diDerent purposes, they can definitely complement each other. For a comprehensive cloud security strategy, deploying both CSPM and DSPM is a smart move. This combination ensures robust protection against cloud threats and secure data management. By implementing both solutions, organizations gain real-time visibility into their cloud and data security postures, reduce the risk of security incidents, and optimize their security investments.

Jul 27, 2024

The Adoption of DSPM and CSPM

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 10:35:42 GMT

The Adoption of DSPM and CSPM

What is the Importance of DSPM and CSPM

Enterprises today face three major data challenges:

1. Rapid data growth

2. Large-scale migration to cloud environments

3. Handling diverse data types (such as financial, intellectual, business confidential, and regulated data like PCI/PHI) in increasingly complex settings

Let’s talk some facts and stats:

Data breaches: IBM reported that the average cost of a data breach in 2023 was $4.45 million.

Cloud misconfigurations: Gartner predicted in 2019 that by 2025, 99% of cloud security failures would be due to customer misconfigurations.

AI in Security: According to a 2023 Capgemini report, 74% of executives believe the benefits of generative AI outweigh the concerns.

CSPM

Advantages

CSPM leverages AI and automation to quickly identify threats and automate remediation, monitoring resources across cloud environments like Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud.

Key benefits:

Enhanced control: Organizations can enforce cloud security policies and ensure compliance with evolving regulations.

Integrated solutions: CSPM connects with existing tools, streamlining threat mitigation across large-scale environments.

Continuous monitoring: CSPM provides ongoing oversight of cloud resources across multiple environments.

Actionable insights: CSPM oDers recommendations to improve security posture and helps monitor legal and regulatory compliance changes.

Comparing CSPM to DSPM

Understanding DSPM

Key Differences

Focus: CSPM targets infrastructure-level vulnerabilities; DSPM addresses data layer risks.

Integration: CSPM integrates with cloud service providers; DSPM connects with data storage and management systems.

Functionality: CSPM identifies and addresses security risks in real-time; DSPM ensures continuous monitoring and compliance.

Leveraging AI in DSPM

Modern DSPM tools utilize AI to autonomously detect and fix risks, offering advanced data analysis, predictive threat modeling, and automated responses to security incidents.

The Combined Power of CSPM and DSPM

Jun 01, 2021

53% OF CISOS SUFFER FROM BURNOUT.

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 13:56:36 GMT

53% of CISOs suffer from burnout.

Burnout isn’t just a buzzword, it is a situation in cybersecurity that’s been spinning out of control for quite a while now, and one we as recruiters talk about almost every day with our clients and candidates. But security professionals say they believe it can be turned around if they actively address the root causes of the problems.

Let's firstly talk about Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and their pivotal role in orchestrating defences against online threats. One of the highest ranking roles in cybersecurity, yet amidst their valiant efforts to protect lies an offline threat they may find harder to unmask…burnout.

This article ventures into the multifaceted world of cybersecurity, celebrating the excitement of the CISO role while addressing the juxtaposed challenges of burnout, shedding light on its root causes within the industry and more importantly, the solutions. It is essential to recognize that for these individuals to effectively protect your system and business, they must also be protected themselves.

The CISO role; at its heart lies the exhilarating challenge of safeguarding organizations against a myriad of digital threats, from stealthy malware to sophisticated cyber-attacks. For CISOs, and particularly the ones we have interviewed on Secure Insights , each day brings a new puzzle to solve, a new strategy to deploy, and if you have the passion, it’s prone to ignition.

We often talk about the importance of the CISO in the boardroom and as trusted advisors to executive leadership, CISOs have more influence now in shaping strategic decisions and driving digital transformation initiatives, which could potentially be the catalyst for burnout. Their ability to align cybersecurity objectives with broader business goals paves the way for innovation and growth, positioning them as indispensable partners in organizational success. But with that comes a lot more responsibility often hiding in-between the lines of the job description. Steve Zalewski, former CISO for Levi Strauss, says his team often punched above its weight because it only had so much budget and capability to fight increasingly capable hackers, and frustration built up.

Navigating Challenges with Resilience:

Often labelled ‘the thankless job’ the relentless nature of cyber threats, coupled with the pressure to safeguard sensitive data and infrastructure, alongside the stereotypical pat on the back, or lack thereof can take a toll on their wellbeing.

The widespread adoption of remote work, accelerated by the global pandemic, has introduced a new set of challenges. Balancing the demands of securing remote endpoints with the need for seamless connectivity adds further strain, blurring the boundaries between work and personal life and ultimately exacerbating burnout.

Fostering work-life harmony is essential for sustaining long-term well-being. By prioritizing downtime and personal interests, individuals can recharge and approach their responsibilities with renewed energy and enthusiasm, given it’s done with commitment and on a regular basis. Cultivating a supportive network of colleagues and mentors also provides a source of strength and encouragement, being an empathetic leader, understanding and acknowledging the signs when your colleague/employee/manager is experiencing trouble, enabling CISOs to share experiences but also feel comfortable in seeking guidance when needed.

Investing in continuous learning and development is paramount in the fast-paced world of cybersecurity. By staying up to date of emerging threats, technologies, and best practices as a business, CISOs can enhance their effectiveness as strategic leaders and innovators. Embracing a growth mindset fosters a culture of curiosity and adaptability, empowering individuals to tackle challenges head-on and with confidence, seizing opportunities for advancement.

Mental health shouldn’t be a taboo topic; investing in and implementing stress-management strategies is critical for addressing burnout in a proactive and cohesive way. Introducing initiatives such as mindfulness programs, mental health resources, and regular check-ins helps CISOs cope with stress and prioritize their well-being. By acknowledging the importance of mental health and providing resources to support it, you will simultaneously improve your workplace culture into one promotes resilience and fosters long-term success.

We don’t need to tell you that CISOs occupy a unique and exhilarating position within the cybersecurity landscape. While the journey may be fraught with challenges, the thrill of defending against digital threats and driving organizational success propels CISOs forward with unwavering determination.

Jul 27, 2024

SECURE INSIGHTS RECOGNISED AS "BEST CYBERSECURITY PODCASTS WORTH LISTENING TO"

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 13:59:26 GMT

Secure Insights recognised as "Best Cybersecurity Podcasts Worth Listening To"

Secure Insights recognised in Sound of Security's "Best Cybersecurity Podcasts Worth Listening To" roundup

We so are excited to share that our podcast has been featured in the highly-regarded " Sound of Security's Roundup of the Best Cybersecurity Podcasts Worth Listening To ."

Our podcast has been gaining momentum in recent months with thousands of people tuning in biweekly, thanks to the insightful discussions and incredible lineup of cybersecurity experts from around the globe. With guests including CISOs at prestigious global companies such as Marvel to Head of Security at major airlines, our podcast has provided our audience with unparalleled access to some of the brightest minds in the field talking about the indsutry past, present and future.

As all types of businesses need leading talent to support evolving threats, staying informed and educated is critical. Secure Insights serves as a valuable resource, offering listeners unique insights, best practices, and expert opinions to help them navigate the ever-changing cybersecurity landscape.

For those who haven't had the chance to tune in, now is the perfect time to start. You can find our podcast on Spotify here , and be sure to subscribe to stay updated with the latest episodes.

Jul 27, 2024

THE IMPACT OF BURNOUT....

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 14:01:37 GMT

The impact of burnout....

In my role within the cybersecurity industry, I've witnessed the impact of burnout first-hand on both my candidates and clients. The past few years have brought a surge of pressures, exacerbated by remote work, talent shortages, frustrations with job duties, and a host of other challenges.

These factors have created an environment where a recent study concluded 66% of individuals in the cybersecurity industry experience stress at work: 22% are very stressed, 23% are fairly stressed, whilst 63% say their stress levels have risen over the past year.

The age-old saying of amidst the bloom of virtue, the seeds of hardship take root, for balance prevails. Although an incredibly rewarding and fruitul career, the relentless demands of the profession can take their toll on the resilience of cybersecurity professionals. The responsibility of safeguarding sensitive data and combating ever-evolving threats is enough to strain even the strongest minds. And now, the added complexities of remote work have blurred the lines between personal and professional life, leaving individuals in a perpetual state of being "on."

Compounding the issue is the talent shortage, which places additional strain on cybersecurity teams. The workload continues to increase while resources become scarcer, leading to heightened stress and potential burnout. Amidst these challenges, mental health is becoming increasingly fragile within the cybersecurity industry. It is imperative that we remove the masks that we wear and acknowledge the toll these circumstances are taking on individuals. What can we do? We must rally together to make long-term impacts to improve mental health across the board, from graduate to CISO.

We must create an environment that not only recognizes the struggles but also embraces vulnerability and encourages seeking support from both an employee and an employer standpoint. Cybersecurity is one of the most exciting and rewarding careers out there, I speak to candidates and leaders daily who truly love what they do. It is through collective understanding to prolong this industry that we can build a community of empathy and support, reminding professionals that they are, in fact not alone. A study recently revealed that the top 3 ways cyber security professionals prevent or recover from poor mental health are by getting outside (66%), staying active (65%) and spending time with family and friends (61%). Interestingly, it doesnt come down to a dislike of the industry, all comes down to the importance of having a healthy work/life balance.

It is crucial to shine a light on the mental health crisis within the cybersecurity industry, as employers and of course, as the individuals who are representing talent within the industry, we must peel away the layers of pretence and create a culture that nurtures honesty, and understanding.

Jul 27, 2024

STRATEGIES TO BUILDING A ROBUST CYBERSECURITY TEAM - THE ESSENTIALS

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 11:05:29 GMT

STRATEGIES TO BUILDING A ROBUST CYBERSECURITY TEAM - THE ESSENTIALS

Building a robust cybersecurity team is crucial to protect sensitive data, safeguard customer trust, and ensure business continuity. However, assembling an effective team can be challenging in a highly competitive talent market, like cybersecurity. So, what advice do we give our clients? below are five strategies that you as an employer can proactively do to ensure your team is the most effective it can be.

Define Clear Roles and Responsibilities: To establish a solid foundation for your cybersecurity team, it's essential to define clear roles and responsibilities, this seems like an obvious one but speaking to candidates every day, they are sometimes blurred lines because what lies within their responsibilities. Each team member should have a well-defined position and a comprehensive understanding of their specific duties. By clarifying expectations, you ensure that team members can focus on their areas of expertise and contribute effectively to the overall security strategy.

Foster a Culture of Continuous Learning: Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, with new threats emerging regularly. To stay ahead, your team needs to embrace a culture of continuous learning. We always encourage and support professional development opportunities if budget allows, such as certifications, training programs, and industry conferences. By investing in your team's growth, you foster a culture of expertise and innovation, enabling them to adapt to new challenges and technologies.

Promote Collaboration and Communication: Effective cybersecurity requires collaboration and open communication among team members. Encourage regular knowledge-sharing sessions, team meetings, and cross-functional projects. Foster an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing insights, discussing emerging threats, and collaborating on solutions. This collaborative approach enhances the overall effectiveness of your team and promotes a proactive security mindset.

Seek Diverse Skill Sets and Perspectives: Building a robust cybersecurity team requires a diverse range of skill sets and perspectives, transferable skills that are known throughout your business. Look beyond technical expertise and consider candidates with strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and creative thinking. Diversity in backgrounds and experiences can bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to your security operations, strengthening your defense against complex threats.

Build Relationships with External Partners: While internal expertise is critical, it can also be incredibly valuable to build relationships with external partners. Collaborating with managed security service providers (MSSPs), threat intelligence vendors, or ethical hacking firms can enhance your team's capabilities. These partnerships offer access to specialized knowledge, advanced tools, and real-time threat intelligence, augmenting your team's efforts and enabling you to respond effectively to emerging threats.

Finding talent in an industry and has an evident skills gap is difficult, you need to partner with a talent acquisition business that gets it. If you're hiring within your security team, please don't hesitate to drop us a note here and we will be in touch.

Aug 28, 2024

HOW TO ATTRACT, AND RETAIN CISO TALENT.

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 11:10:58 GMT

HOW TO ATTRACT, AND RETAIN CISO TALENT.

With a talent shortage so apparent and a skillsgap so wide, we stress to organisations every single day that growing your security team doesnt stop once the individuals signs the contract and show up on their first day, the key to real growth, is knowing how to retain them. Cisos in particular.

Finding and keeping exceptional Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) requires more than just matching skills and experience—it demands a touch of finesse. So, let's talk about how to attract and retain top CISO talent with style and acrtual substance.

When you're looking at your longlists, your shortlists and your final stages, it's incredibly important to recognize the qualities and skills that set them apart. A seasoned CISO possess the ability to anticipate threats, think strategically, and communicate effectively across all levels of an organization. Exceptional CISOs have a deep understanding of risk management, compliance frameworks, and emerging cybersecurity trends. They have ability to balance technical expertise with business acumen and thrive in the face of evolving challenges.

We know what an exceptional CISO looks like, how do you attract them? It's crucial to showcase your organization's unique appeal. Here are a few strategies you can think about adopting before you start your search:

Competitive Compensation Packages: Money talks, but it's not the only language CISOs understand. Offer competitive salaries, attractive benefits, and flexible work arrangements that demonstrate your commitment to work-life balance.

Career Development Opportunities: Stand out by providing a clear roadmap for professional growth. Offer training programs, sponsor industry certifications, and foster mentorship opportunities to nurture the ambitions of CISOs seeking to expand their skill sets.

A Supportive Executive Leadership Team: Show that your organization truly values cybersecurity by ensuring a supportive executive leadership team. CISOs want to work in an environment where their expertise is respected, and they can make a tangible impact.

Let's now talk brielfy about retaining CISO Talent and building that fortress of loyalty, because attracting them, we're sorry to say is only half the battle. To retain them, foster an environment where they can thrive and continue to make a difference.

Here's how:

Empowerment and Autonomy: Give CISOs the autonomy to make decisions and implement their cybersecurity vision. Nurture an environment where their ideas are heard and valued, empowering them to lead with confidence.

Engaging Work Culture: Cultivate a vibrant work culture that celebrates innovation, collaboration, and a healthy dose of humor. Foster an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed, sparking creativity and camaraderie.

Continuous Learning and Cutting-Edge Technology: Provide access to the latest tools, technologies, and resources to stay at the forefront of cybersecurity. CISOs thrive when they can continually enhance their knowledge and leverage cutting-edge solutions to protect their organization.

We speak to CISO talent, every day and we know what it takes to allow senior talent in to your business. If you're looking to hire, or youre looking for a new role. Get in touch.

Aug 28, 2024

HOW IS THE TALENT SHORTAGE IN CYBERSECURITY IMPACTING LEADERSHIP?

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 11:16:12 GMT

The impact of burnout....

It's no secret that the current lack of a readily available skilled cybersecurity workforce halts the success of any organization’s security program. Automated tools and technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) offer a level of support, of course, and bringing in a managed security service provider provides expertise that isn’t available in-house for smaller businesses, but with these advances in technology comes with it the significant advancement in hackers and their ability to *eventually* weave through any new tech.

It’s now more important than ever to look in to, particularly if you’re a medium sized business, an internal security team. This of course, is juxtaposed by the fact that it is currently harder than ever to find a skilled cybersecurity workforce. This isn’t just entry-level positions, it’s now leadership including CISO and CSO.

How is this talent shortage impacting leadership?

One of the most significant impacts of the talent shortage in the cybersecurity industry is that companies are forced to compete for a limited pool of talent particularly at the higher end; supply and demand is ultimately driving up salaries and benefits. This can be particularly challenging for smaller companies or start-ups that may not have the resources to offer competitive compensation packages.

The talent shortage is also impacting leadership by limiting the ability to innovate. Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, and companies need to stay ahead of the curve to protect their systems and data. However, without enough qualified professionals, it can be difficult to develop new technologies and techniques to address emerging threats. This can leave companies vulnerable to attacks and can make it harder for them to stay competitive in the marketplace.

We discuss what we can do to address this talent shortage from the bottom line upwards on our new podcast Security Insights - click here to listen .

Aug 28, 2024

WHAT CYBERSECURITY CERTIFICATIONS ARE WORTH IT?

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 11:21:12 GMT

The impact of burnout....

Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields in the tech industry, and we can confirm, it’s got a significantly high demand for skilled professionals. As a result of this, cybersecurity certifications have become increasingly popular as they can help individuals acquire the skills and knowledge needed to begin their career and also succeed in the field. Is investing in a qualification in cybersecurity worth it?

For the most part - yes, they are but only if theyre relevent to your specific career and will demonstrate key knowledge in a field, but it shouldnt be seen as a hard barrier to employment. We work with the most reputable employers of cybersecurity talent every day, we know what employers are looking for and what types of certifications are important. These certifications can also be a great way to keep up-to-date with the ever-changing world of cybersecurity. Whether you’re just starting out or already have years of experience, they are designed to suit everyone’s needs. So, let’s explore some of the most valuable qualifications for different roles, the cost (in the US), time investment required, and why they're worth pursuing:

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

The CISSP certification is one of the most highly-regarded certifications in the cybersecurity field, and is recognized globally. It covers eight domains of information security, including risk management, security architecture, and cryptography. It's an ideal certification for professionals who want to work in roles such as security analyst, security manager, or security consultant. The certification requires a minimum of five years of experience in the cybersecurity field, and the exam costs around $699.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

The CEH certification is designed for individuals who want to work in roles such as penetration tester or security analyst. It covers topics such as hacking techniques, network security, and cryptography. The certification requires at least two years of experience in the cybersecurity field and costs around $1,199 for the exam.

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

The CISM certification is ideal for professionals who want to work in roles such as information security manager or information security consultant. It covers topics such as information security governance, risk management, and incident management. The certification requires a minimum of five years of experience in the cybersecurity field, and the exam costs around $699.

CompTIA Security+

The CompTIA Security+ certification is designed for individuals who want to work in entry-level roles in the cybersecurity field. It covers topics such as threat management, network security, and cryptography. The certification is widely recognized and is ideal for professionals who are new to the field of cybersecurity. The certification costs around $349 for the exam.

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

The CISA certification is designed for professionals who want to work in roles such as information systems auditor or security consultant. It covers topics such as auditing, risk management, and governance. The certification requires a minimum of five years of experience in the cybersecurity field, and the exam costs around $575.

Depending on your experience level and career goals, there are certifications available at different price points and time investments. If you need any more information about the above, or want to discuss a career in cybersecurity, drop us a message here and one of our consultants will get back to you.

Aug 28, 2024

DIVERSITY IN CYBERSECURITY

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 14:32:39 GMT

The impact of burnout....

The cybersecurity industry has been facing a significant challenge over the recent years, if it’s not a significant shortage in the workforce, it’s the lack of diversity within the talent that is currently thriving in their cybersecurity careers.

This lack of diversity is not only a social issue, but it also has a weighty impact on the industry itself. What impact is this? And how badly actually *is* it affecting the industry?

Firstly, let’s talk about the lack of women in the industry. Although we have covered this topic in more detail, The cybersecurity industry has traditionally always been male-dominated and its clear Women are significantly underrepresented in the cybersecurity industry from entry level to executive.

According to a report published by the Centre for Cyber Safety and Education, women represent only 24% of the cybersecurity workforce worldwide. In the United States, women represent only 20% of the cybersecurity workforce, with only 11% of them holding leadership positions. The lack of women in the cybersecurity industry can be attributed to a variety of reasons, including gender bias, stereotypes, and lack of exposure to cybersecurity as a career option.

Lack of Racial and Ethnic Diversity

According to a report by the International Consortium of Minority Cybersecurity Professionals (ICMCP), African Americans and Hispanics together represent only 14% of the cybersecurity workforce in the United States. This lack of diversity in the industry can lead to limited perspectives and narrow decision-making processes. For an industry that is rapidly evolving and is always in need of fresh perspectives, the lack of ethnic diversity needs to be addressed. The unfortunate thing is, these statistics likely hold true for the broader technology industry as well, with a lack of representation from these underrepresented groups.

Impact on innovation and creativity

A diverse workforce can bring a range of perspectives and experiences that can help identify new approaches and solutions to cybersecurity challenges, challenges that are consistently evolving as the industry grows bigger, and more susceptible to cyber-attacks. A study by the Ponemon Institute found that organizations with a more diverse workforce reported higher levels of innovation and creativity in their cybersecurity practices.

Impact on the growing skills gap

We don’t have to tell you the demand for cybersecurity professionals is growing and will continue to to grow but it’s incredibly important to attract talent from a diverse pool of candidates. Without diversity, the industry may not be able to meet the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals. You must ensure your talent partner or recruiter is providing you with a diverse shortlist of candidates, challenge them and ensure the candidates you are receiving have a wide range of skillsets from a wealth of backgrounds that you can adapt to your business.

What should you be doing?

Promoting diversity in the cybersecurity industry is essential for creating a more innovative, effective, and inclusive workforce. We understand it’s a global issue but by taking small steps will allow the shocking statistics rise. You can promote diversity from within by ensuring you are fostering a supportive and inclusive culture and environment. If you’re attracting talent you can promote diversity by diversifying your recruiting practices, providing diversity and inclusion training, and partnering with diverse organizations, like we have mentioned above.

It goes without saying that by promoting diversity and inclusion, the industry can create a more innovative, effective, and inclusive workforce that better serves a diverse range of users.

If you want to discuss growing your team and working with a talent partner that offers a diverse and inclusive shortlist of candidates, please drop us a message.

Jul 27, 2024

WHAT ARE THEY CYBERSECURITY RISKS OF SOCIAL MEDIA?

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 14:39:38 GMT

The impact of burnout....

Social media has become an essential part of our lives, almost as important as oxygen and coffee in the morning; you get up, make your brew and spend a good ten minutes scrolling, we're all guilty of it. Having said this, it's nice to escape but it can be a bit of a double-edged sword, particularly as cybersecurity and data breaches are soaring. Apart from TikTok this week being dubbed as a brain washing tool, social media has the potential to significantly improve lives, connecting with friends, catch up on the latest ‘news’, and it even has a high earning potential if you fancy the influencer lifestyle. However, it's also a breeding ground for cybercriminals who are more than happy to steal your personal information faster than you can say "like and subscribe."

As well as being hacked, our data can be used create harmless targeted advertising, or sold to third-party companies. If you’re an avid a social media user, it's time to put down the selfie stick and ring light and take a few minutes to learn how to protect your data. Because let's face it, your Instagram and TikTok videos could go viral, but they're not worth sacrificing your identity for.

Strengthen your Passwords: The first step to protecting your data is by having strong passwords. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols that are difficult to guess, and avoid using common phrases or words. Also, avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Two-factor authentication is an additional security layer that requires users to enter a code sent to their mobile phone or email before accessing their account. This can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your account.

Be Careful with Links: Cybercriminals often use phishing scams to trick social media users into clicking on malicious links. Be careful when clicking on links, especially from unknown sources. Check the URL before clicking and avoid providing personal information on untrusted websites.

Review your Privacy Settings: This seems like an obvious one, but with a wealth of platforms it’s important to keep on top of your privacy settings. Review and adjust your privacy settings to control who can view your posts, photos, and other personal information. Some social media platforms can even track your location. Researchers studied TikTok’s source code and reported that the app carries out "excessive data harvesting". Analysts said the platform collects details such as users' location, what specific device they are using, and which other apps are on the device.

Limit your Personal Information: Social media platforms collect a vast amount of personal information, which can be used for targeted advertising or even identity theft. Limit the amount of personal information you share on social media, including your full name, address, phone number, and date of birth. Use only the required.

Monitor your Accounts: Regularly monitor your social media accounts for any unusual activity, such as unauthorized logins, changes to your profile, or suspicious messages. Report any suspicious activity immediately to the social media platform.

Are you interested in cybersecurity? Visit our next generation page to see how you can get into the field.

Jul 27, 2024

WOMEN IN CYBERSECURITY

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 11:48:24 GMT

The impact of burnout....

As technology expands, it simultaneously brings with it growing compromises in cybersecurity, meaning the industry is one of constant evolution and growth.

As the leading supplier of talent within the area we can tell you it’s one of the fastest growing, and in-demand industries around the globe. However, as the industry grows, it becomes increasingly apparent that there is a major imbalance in the workforce, particularly when it comes to gender. While the number of women in the cybersecurity industry has increased over the years, there is still a significant gap between the number of women and men in the field (A survey conducted by ISC2 found women working in cyber account for 24% of the overall workforce). Strictly speaking, the imbalance in the industry spans across the entire diverse spectrum, from neurodiverse talent to individuals with disabilities, and those we will explore as part of our diversity series.

This imbalance is not only a matter of equity, but it is also a significant issue for the industry as a whole. Diverse teams are shown to be more innovative, bring unique perspectives and approaches to problems, and ultimately lead to better results. The lack of women in the cybersecurity field is therefore not only limiting the career opportunities for women, but it is also holding back an industry that has suffered from a significant talent shortage for a long time, from reaching its full potential.

So, what can be done to address this imbalance? A key starting point is to focus on recruiting women into the field. An obviously one, right? Starting from the beginning. This means that companies, organizations, and universities must make a concerted effort to encourage women to pursue careers in cybersecurity. This can be achieved through a range of initiatives, scholarships, hosting networking events, promoting the industry and a lucrative and exciting one, and most importantly showcasing successful women in the field as role models.

Additionally, it is also important to address any potential barriers to entry for women. For example, many women may feel intimidated by a perceived culture in cybersecurity, or may be put off by a lack of female representation in the field. By working to address these barriers and create a more inclusive culture, we can help to attract more women into the field. If you are a woman in the industry, use your voice to be an advocate, channelling the power of collaboration will truly change the equation. If your business or cybersecurity team doesn’t have many women, don’t hide it. It’s important to shout about the steps you are taking now, and in the future to ensure your teams are as inclusive as possible.

Another important step is to address the issue of retention. While it is great to see more women entering the cybersecurity industry, it is equally important to ensure that they are able to build successful careers in the field. This means creating a supportive and inclusive working culture and environment. As a growing field, many women in cybersecurity face the challenge of balancing their professional and personal lives. This can include a lack of flexible working arrangements, such as the option to work from home, and a lack of support for caring responsibilities.

Addressing the gender imbalance in the cybersecurity industry is essential not just for the advancement of women in the field, but for the industry as a whole, and one that has been at the forefront of talking points. By focusing on recruiting women, addressing potential barriers, and creating a supportive environment for women to thrive, we can help to build a more diverse and innovative cybersecurity industry for the future.

Do you want to ensure your team is diverse? Speak to one of our Talent Delivery Partners.

Aug 28, 2024

ONLINE DATING AND RECRUITMENT, WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 11:51:34 GMT

The impact of burnout....

You know it's time for a change; you've got a feeling, and you've been pondering all types of possibilities but searching for the right match has taken a while. The first meeting went ok; compatibility is a worry, but hopefully the spark will ignite when you meet again. It's a lot of effort; you know reaching outside of your comfort zone will pay dividends in the long run. You've been burned in the past, but you now know your worth and won't settle for less.

You've been stalking their socials and exchanging emails for quite a while now, but your feelings are confirmed when the sides of your mouth unintentionally start to reach for your ears when you see the latest subject name: 'Final Stage interview'.

We're talking about job hunting. What did you think we were talking about?

Looking for your next role draws eye-opening comparisons to online dating because you want to find the perfect match, a goal that's ultimately shared by both situations. If your online dating game is strong and you're matching with more people than your fingers can swipe, it may be time to transfer those skills into finding a new job.

1) Perfecting your profile:

Is precisely like writing your CV; it's a window into you. Writing your CV can be just as tedious as perfecting your online profile, you weigh up the things to put in, and the things to definitely leave out. You're eager to learn but not too keen because, god forbid, you don't want to wave the red flag! You want to come across as confident but, please, not too confident.

What does your potential match want to see in your profile?

• The right culture fit, interests and shared goals

• Successful past relationships

• Approachable

• Skilled

• Has exciting hobbies that you may introduce them to

• Self-assured, someone who they can see will thrive in their social group

2) Are you punching?

Being behind a keyboard has the ability to release a certain level of serotonin that gifts you the confidence to approach someone who is more than likely (note: definitely) out of your league. What have you got to lose? It could work out, and if you get rejected, just close the tab and act as if nothing happened. This is exactly the same when applying for a role; if you don't meet the criteria, as long as you can prove you will add significant value and big up your other skills, then it's worth taking the punt and getting on their radar early.

3) There's no avoiding the ghost

Let's talk about ghosting. The scariest trend in online dating, and now recruitment. A behavior defined by cutting off all communication suddenly and without explanation, leaving the other party to wonder what happened. The advice is the same in both situations, you probably aren't the right fit, move on to a better opportunity (or you can repeat step 2, until you get lucky).

4) The Interview

Finding your dream partner is like finding your dream job, getting to know the person before committing is the best course of action. You match with someone, strike up a conversation, and find that it seems more like an interview than a conversation. If the role has been live for an extended period, the employer has more than likely interviewed countless individuals who just aren't the right fit for the position. Do you get where we are going here?

Aug 28, 2024

4 WAYS TO BE MORE PRODUCTIVE AT WORK

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 08:02:13 GMT

The impact of burnout....

For many people, returning to work after the Christmas break can be a rather stressful and anxiety-inducing prospect. A week in, and you’re still not feeling motivated? We get it.

People up and down the country returned to work this week, whether in their home office, actual office or a spare bedroom office. And while getting back into the swing of things may be a relief for some, for many people, returning to the working day is quite stressful.

“How to be productive at work?” we can guarantee is the age-old question plaguing employees around the world. Regardless of where you work and what you do, the majority of people are always looking for new ways to be more efficient and effective, particularly after a lengthy time off.

Here are a few (not so obvious) ways to make the transition a little easier.

Plan your day the night before.

Although it seems tedious, spending your day at work to come home and plan the next isn’t appealing. Waking up with an organised day will pay dividends and ease you back into the working habits and routines that may have subsided while eating turkey and opening presents.

Eat the Frog
Not an actual frog, a metaphorical one.

Mark Twain once famously said: “if it’s your job to eat a frog, it’s best to do it first thing in the morning. And if it’s your job to eat two frogs, it’s best to eat the biggest first.”

Get your most significant and undesirable task out of the way first. Doing this will give you a sense of accomplishment which has the opportunity to fuel the rest of your day. Getting the ball rolling early will motivate you to complete your other tasks.

Turn off your notifications.

According to a Gallup poll, more than 50 percent of US smartphone owners admit to checking their phones a few times an hour, even at work.

Switching off your notifications during work hours is an excellent way to prevent you from checking your phone all the time, allowing a stronger, more productive focus.

Can you work the Pomodoro way?

This method is excellent for long projects that cannot be broken down into smaller chunks or sprints. Instead of reducing the workload to make it less daunting, you’re keeping the same workload but making it a lot more managing by making the work time smaller.

Follow this method:

Choose a task.

Set a timer of 30 minutes.
Work at your normal pace.
When the timer goes off, take a two or three-minute break.
Tick or cross a box to confirm the session is completed.
Repeat the method for four sessions, and then take a longer break.
Repeat the whole process again.

Here’s more information about the Pomodoro technique

https://www.forbes.com/sites/bryancollinseurope/2020/03/03/the-pomodoro- technique/?sh=31c0eb573985

Aug 28, 2024

WHAT ROLE CAN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE PLAY IN CYBERSECURITY?

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 08:17:44 GMT

The impact of burnout....

Artificial Intelligence is increasingly important in cybersecurity — for both good and bad. Now, it’s becoming popular for organisations to leverage the latest AI-based tools to detect threats better and protect their systems and data resources. In an industry where the thirst for talent is higher than ever, utilising technology to help ease the burden seems like the perfect solution.

Whilst AI is not a one-stop solution for all cybersecurity concerns, it is beneficial for rapidly automating decision-making processes and inferring patterns from incomplete or changed data.

AI for cybersecurity has beneficial uses; it can generate alerts for threats, identify new types of malware and protect sensitive data for organisations. However, it is currently being used in a limited fashion within the context of products such as email filters and malware identification tools that already have AI powering them in some way. It’s safe to say companies aren’t going out and turning over their entire cybersecurity teams and programs to AI. Still, it’s definitely something that should be considered on a smaller scale.

In general, AI is used to help detect attacks more accurately and prioritise responses based on real-world risk. It allows automated or semi-automated responses to these attacks and can provide accurate modelling to predict future attacks. Does this remove the need for security analysts? No, but it does make the analysts’ job more agile and more accurate when facing cyber threats.

Do the positives outweigh the negatives?

• AI can handle a lot of data at once.

An average mid-sized company has quite a lot of traffic, so there’s a lot of data transferred between customers and the business daily. AI is the best solution that will help detect any threats masked as regular activity. Its automated nature allows it to skim through massive chunks of data and traffic.

• AI learns more over time, and it keeps up with technology

As the name suggests, AI technology is intelligent, and it uses its ability to improve network security over time. It uses machine and deep learning to learn a business network’s behaviour over time. It recognises patterns on the network and clusters them. It then proceeds to detect deviations or security incidents from the norm before responding to them.

• It has a heavy reliance on Big Data

Mastering data patterns is one of the functions of AI technology, and it does that with big data analytics. If you take big data out of the picture, the accuracy of AI becomes questionable.

If you want AI technology to detect cyber threats, predict attacks and respond to them accordingly, you must train it with tons of data via machine learning.

• A target for hackers

Cybercriminals make it their priority to keep up with trends in cybersecurity. With AI generating so much buzz in securing digital assets, they are working around the clock to be on top of it. While you are busy trying to enhance your security defences with the latest algorithm, chances are that cybercriminals have already found loopholes in that very algorithm.

• No Room for Creativity and Spontaneity

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to cybersecurity. Sometimes, your defence mechanism on the ground might be inadequate to prevent an attack. If you can figure out malicious activities on time, you could apply a spontaneous strategy to manage that attack.

Cyber professionals have the expertise to contain cyberattacks in real time. As humans, they can respond to unique circumstances with their creativity and initiative—something that AI technology lacks since it operates by learning behaviours over continuous training.

Aug 28, 2024

DOES THE 4-DAY WORKING WEEK WORK IN CYBER?

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 12:03:52 GMT

The impact of burnout....

The thirst for cyber talent and the pace at which the industry is rapidly growing no doubt calls for a better work/life balance, but is a 4-day working week the answer?

I have seen a wealth of firms adopting the ‘future of work’ 4-day working week model, which seems to be working for now. Although maybe not be a sustainable option but one that lays the foundations to ensure cybersecurity is up there as a sought-after career choice. Many businesses this year adopted the 100:80:100 model, 100% pay, for 80% of the time in return for 100% productivity. We have seen this new way of working shift the IT industry from a pool of burnt-out workers to a productive, work-life-balanced success.

Is this the case in cybersecurity? Can those constantly monitoring and mitigating cyber threats take a day off? It shouldn’t be a fever dream for cybersecurity professionals, but unfortunately, it is; any time-lapse in vigilance can provide an opportunity for attackers. So, with that being said - what’s the answer?

If the past two years since the pandemic have proved anything, no organisation in any industry can avoid cybercrime; all companies are at risk, and that risk isn’t limited to working days or business hours. Sharp focus and a keen eye for spotting genuine threats are essential to successful protection, yet they cant always be guaranteed if workers are burned out and stressed.

Organisations that have already moved to a 4-day working week have reported increases in performance and profit, benefiting from an increased attraction to potential employees and higher employee retention rates (things that our industry so desperately craves). With a skills gap increasing, cyber workers (and the industry as a whole) should also be offered a healthier lifestyle and benefit from the fruits of a 4-day working week.

Cybersecurity challenges can be automated through AI-powered endpoint protection and AML (advanced machine learning), allowing round-the-clock supervision of a company’s cybersecurity defence. Efficiencies can be made through AI and human backup. This of course, is a costly alternative.

The advantages of AI and the benefits of outsourcing or augmenting your team with threat management experts alleviate the ongoing pressures of cyber surveillance to make a shorter working week viable, even for the most critical of businesses.

A BlackBerry study showed that, in half of the businesses, IT staff spend more than five hours a week administering and updating signature-based anti-virus solutions. Deploying AI-based solutions to automate signature-generation processes immediately reduces or eliminates this task, freeing almost a day a week in itself.

By outsourcing services and technologies to cyber security companies, cyber teams can partake in modern and sustainable work practices without compromising security. This definitely lends hope to the industry becoming a more attractive career choice.

Aug 28, 2024

MARKET UPDATE - 5 MINUTES WITH JAMES MORRIS

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 12:07:25 GMT

The impact of burnout....

We spent 5 minutes with our Associate Director James for a market update, addressing the hot topics in the industry and how to streamline your hiring:

How is the talent shortage affecting the cybersecurity industry as a whole?

From speaking to cyber security professionals the skills shortage can have a number of effects, depending on how their organisations are set up. The majority of hiring managers have spoken about:

Not having enough people or the correct skills can lead to huge vulnerabilities
Overworked staff
No time for self-development as time is taken up developing/cross-training junior employees
Less time to build relationships with the business leading to a strain on relationships and in turn a lesser appreciation for what cybersecurity can

Using your expertise as a talent partner, what are you doing / what should be a business's first priority if they're struggling to fill a role?

Evaluate the skills you’re looking for. If you can’t summarize the role in 2 sentences or less you may be asking for a few too many elements (consider how this will translate to the market as a whole).
Listen to your recruitment partners (internal or external) – they’ll have some insight that’s very tricky to find on job boards/ general internet research.
Hiring process: you need to sell what you have, keep engagement high through speed and general interest in the candidate, rapid feedback and clear reasons why each interview stage exists. The most successful processes we have seen have 2-3 stages and last no longer than 2 weeks.

In a candidate short market, what are the pull factors that your candidates are looking for when considering a new role?

What will the role and company do for them? It doesn’t always have to be the most exciting tech stack or even super sexy projects. If your role will offer someone with lesser skills a chance to widen knowledge, better themselves through training or offer a path into a particular industry you have something you can use. Make sure you communicate this to your recruitment partners. If you’re struggling to think of what would attract a candidate to this role, perhaps it’s time to rethink who you’re hiring.

If you're hiring, get in touch with James

Aug 28, 2024

PROTECT YOUR DATA: HOW TO HIRE THE RIGHT SECURITY ENGINEER

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 08:49:39 GMT

The impact of burnout....

Today’s digital world is filled with security threats of all sorts. If your security infrastructure is weak, you must stay ready for your business app to be breached, your IoT devices to be hacked, your network to be invaded, and much more.

Simply put, hackers are getting more advanced by the day, and you have to do everything you can to stay a step ahead of them.

That’s why you’d need to hire the perfect security engineer for your company. But considering that the amount of rising talent in this field isn’t sufficient, you may end up with someone who’s not right for you, especially if you aren’t careful.

1. Offer more than what your competitors are offering

As said earlier, there are not enough experienced security engineers to meet the demands of every company. So, while you’re reading this post, your competitor is probably strategizing to hire the person you’d have hired otherwise. That’s why you need to conduct extensive compensation research before even putting out your job listings.

Professionals will be attracted to your listings, if and only if, what you offer is substantially more compelling than what your competitors are offering.

2. Offer a career path

Many companies would be offering high salaries to professional security engineers — how do you set yourself apart?

One of the ways to do that is by offering a solid career path. You can start promoting this aspect of your company as early as during the interview phase. You can say that the position you’re offering isn’t stagnant, but it’s the first step on a series of positions that they’d climb going forward.

This perk will attract the professionals towards you by offering a long-term career path, where they’d be able to progress with every passing year.

3. Consider hackers and gamers

As you probably know, cybersecurity is a field of creativity. Even if a candidate has all the necessary degrees and GPAs, they may not be the right fit for your position. Instead, a teen game cracker working from their basement might be a better fit.

Hence, you may offer your position to ethical hackers and gamers who’ve had a history in this field. There’s a good chance such candidates can help your company think as a criminal hacker would, helping you take precautions to prevent attacks before they happen.

Final Thoughts

Remember, this field is run by experienced — but creative — individuals who know how to think outside the box. So, you also need to think outside the box to find someone who can fulfil your needs. If you're currently looking for security engineers, or you're expanding your cybersecurity team please get in touch.

Aug 28, 2024

TOP CYBERSECURITY JOBS IN 2022

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 08:57:23 GMT

The impact of burnout....

You don’t need us to tell you that cybersecurity jobs are in burning demand these days.

With the rising number of digital threats and booming security standards, we know more than anyone else, companies are doing everything they can to build their digital fortresses, hire and safeguard their data.

A cybersecurity hires take 20% longer than other IT jobs. And at the same time, they’re around 16% more rewarding too.

It’s a creative career ideal for people who can think outside the box and develop innovative solutions tailored to their employer company.

In this post, we talk about the top cybersecurity positions you should be aiming for in 2022. These positions are destined to be rewarding in the short- and long-term alike.

Top Cybersecurity Jobs in 2022

1. Information Security Analyst

One of the major reasons any company hires in the cybersecurity space is to prevent their data from being stolen or lost — and that’s where an information security analyst steps in.

As an information security analyst, your job would be to help the company secure its computer network systems.

To do that, you have to take on a number of tasks. For instance, you’re obliged to regularly inspect the networks and systems for any data breaches. When something happens, you are to document and report it ASAP. Furthermore, you research various security trends and help the company keep up with them.

On average, this position could earn you around $99k per year. Plus, it’s a solid entry point in the wider field of cybersecurity.

2. Security Systems Administrator

After you’ve gained experience as an analyst, you can get promoted to the role of a Security Systems Administrator.

In this role, your job is to take charge of administering the overall security infrastructure of the company’s systems and networks. You’d be regularly inspecting the systems, managing different user permissions, documenting security procedures, participating in security audits, and other similar stuff.

As a security systems administrator, you can get paid around $108k per year.

3. Security Engineer

If you have taken a college degree in security engineering and have prior experience as an information security analyst, you can work as a security engineer.

In this position, you design security infrastructures to safeguard the company’s each and every digital asset, including systems, networks, data, information, and others.

Your day-to-day tasks might include developing and deploying security standards, recommending changes & upgrades to the existing systems, testing the security infrastructure, and other similar tasks.

You can expect to get paid around $111k per year for this job.

4. Security Architect

It’s one of the highest-paid jobs in the cybersecurity niche and requires a solid understanding of this field. Prior experience as a security engineer will help you secure this job easier.

As a security architect, your job is to keep the company ahead of every possible security threat. You have to keep an eagle’s eye on every rising threat, understand the trends, make predictions, and do anything else in your power to stay ahead of security threats.

If you land this job, you can expect to get paid more than $150k+ per year.

By landing one of the jobs above, you can essentially secure a rewarding career that also gives you compelling opportunities for the future.

View our latest opportunities in cybersecurity here

Aug 28, 2024

A CAREER IN SECURE OPERATIONS

Wed, 18 May 2022 12:17:28 GMT

The impact of burnout....

What do you do?

Working in Secure Ops, you manage systems and networks to ensure they deliver the expected services to their users and other systems, but with the particular responsibility of ensuring that this is done securely. When there are updates to existing systems or new ones to install, you plan the implementation carefully to minimise disruption to existing services and assure that the changes will not create new vulnerabilities or disrupt any ongoing services.

Your primary responsibility is to keep the services operating reliably and securely, serving the needs of the business. This means you have a fair understanding of the relationship between systems and their role within the business; this is so you can, when necessary, prioritise support for those systems that are most crucial to business operations.

Some responsibilities may include:

manage identification, authentication and authorisation controls, including directories
monitor system performance, including security incident metrics
ensure that system processes, such as backups, are effective and in compliance with agreed protocols
manage discrete development and test environments
manage the transition to operation of new components and systems so as to minimise the risk to the security of other systems and current services
ensure that updates (patches) to externally supplied software and hardware are applied quickly but safely
support users in viewing and processing data according to agreed access controls
manage the recovery of services after a security incident has been resolved

What are the skills needed?

Personal:

attention to detail
logical thinking
maintaining detailed records of actions
evaluating the probable social, commercial, cultural, ethical and environmental consequences of an action

Professional:

configuring and managing processes on servers and network security devices
selecting and creating methods for measuring system performance
change management
monitoring system performance and security
scripting in operating systems

Transferable skills?

Previous roles in the operational management and supervision of other kinds of technological systems can be useful transferable skills for starting within Secure Operations, alongside further cybersecurity training. These roles may include:

CNC machine operator
telecoms network operator
broadcast or cable TV engineer

From a different cybersecurity discipline?

Secure System Development
Vulnerability Management

Aug 28, 2024

A CAREER IN DIGITAL FORENSICS

Wed, 04 May 2022 12:21:08 GMT

The impact of burnout....

If you work within digital forensics in cyber security are on the front lines in the fight against cybercrime. It’s working on the process of identifying and reconstructing the relevant sequence of events that have led to the currently observable state of a target IT system.

What will I work on?

The majority of your work is driven by the need to respond to security incidents or suspected crimes. You work methodically and carefully, in control of the pace of your work. You work on very technical matters, sometimes delving deeply into hardware and software, using specialised tools, to recover data from systems and devices. You record the steps of your investigations and your findings thoroughly; in some organisations, this will be for presentation in legal proceedings, whether civil or criminal. If you're an experienced digital forensics practitioner, you may be directly involved in such proceedings, appearing as an expert witness in court.

What skills are important?

Personal:

Problem-solving
Logical thinking
Writing formal reports
Evaluating the probable social, commercial, cultural, ethical and environmental consequences of an action

Specialist skills:

File system analysis
Memory artefact analysis
Software analysis, possibly including decomplication
Scripting in languages or tools, such as Python, Unix Shell and PowerShell
Physical disassembly of electronic devices
Use of common forensics tools such as UFED, EnCASE and FTK
Writing reports suitable for submission in legal proceedings

Transferable skills:

Having a career in Digital Forensics is a requirement for significantly advanced, specialised skills.

However, some roles are quite specialised and may provide a good foundation on which additional training can build. These include:

Data recovery
Archaeology
Forensic accountancy
Scene-of-crime officers

Aug 28, 2024

A CAREER IN CYBERSECURITY GOVERNANCE & RISK MANAGEMENT

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 12:25:17 GMT

The impact of burnout....

Working within this specialism in cybersecurity is about protecting the security of an organisation’s information systems and data, by setting policies, monitoring compliance and following defined procedures to identify, assess and manage risks from external and internal threats, all guided by the organisation’s view of any risk.

What will be your responsibilities?

As a Practitioner:

draft cyber security policies and procedures, taking an account of an organisation’s legal, regulatory and operational requirements
identify cyber security risks, posed by the combination of vulnerabilities and threats, to the security of an organisation’s information systems and data
assess the impact and likelihood of identified cyber security risks
propose measures - including avoidance, mitigation, sharing and acceptance - to manage risks
create and maintain a risk register or include the cyber security risks in the organisation’s overall risk register

As a Senior Practitioner:

manage governance and risk management practitioners
contribute to an organisation’s high-level risk strategy and the definition of its risk appetite
identify the requirement for policies and procedures and monitor their production and updating
approve policies and procedures
set up and maintain the arrangements for managing cyber security risk
engage with heads of business departments to demonstrate the cyber risks which the organisation faces through existing processes and to recommend changes to them
assess and report on the effectiveness of company risk management standards and policies

What skills will you need?

Transferable soft skills:

taking account of multiple complex factors to arrive at logical, repeatable conclusions
verbal and written communication, especially in producing formal documents which are comprehensive and without ambiguities
presenting logical, objective reasons for all decisions made

Specialist skills:

using statistical, mathematical or financial techniques to assess the likelihood (taking account of vulnerabilities and threats) and impact of cyber-attack techniques and deliberate or unintentional damaging actions by people within the organisation
applying risk management methodologies, such as those in ISO 27001, and sector-specific requirements, such as PCI-DSS
interpreting legal and regulatory requirements and integrating them with an organisation’s operational requirements
assessing the compliance of procedures and practice with agreed standards

Transferable skills from a different career path:

roles in the emergency services, especially fire and police services, which require substantial risk management
operational and staff roles in the Armed Forces
business risk management
business operations
IT system management
business continuity
financial or internal audit
specialist commercial insurance assessment

Aug 28, 2024

A CAREER IN VULNERABILITY MANAGEMENT

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 09:38:53 GMT

The impact of burnout....

Vulnerability Management is the management of the configuration of protected systems to ensure that any vulnerabilities are understood and managed.

If you're passionate about IT security, then working in vulnerability management is an interesting and essential role in any organisation.

As an experienced Vulnerability Practitioner, you conduct and interpret vulnerability scans. You're probably involved with the team responding to security incidents, working out the root causes of incidents and collating the lessons learned. You drive fundamental change within the organisation by helping to develop security initiatives; this may include briefing and educating other teams within the organisation on vulnerabilities and solutions to them, or mentoring junior team members. You also may be responsible for providing reports to clients on their systems’ vulnerabilities, turning technical analysis into something that non-technical readers can understand.

What does a day in the life look like?

Stay up to date with reports of vulnerabilities in ff-the-shelf software and hardware
Research potential vulnerabilities in the organisation’s systems
Identify and prioritise vulnerabilities
Propose and implement mitigations for identified vulnerabilities
Work on different projects such as patch compliance and sector-specific compliance (for example, with PCI-DSS standards)
Work with our internal and external Certifying Authorities (CA)
Configure ADFS and remote access solutions
Run network and application vulnerability scans
Provide support to and work directly with clients on vulnerabilities
Write and deliver client reports

Ideal Personal Skills:

Inquisitive nature and a problem-solving approach
Prioritises work and escalate issues appropriately
Interpersonal skills enabling effective interaction with technical and non-technical teams
Verbal and written communication skills
Evaluating the probable social, commercial, cultural, ethical and environmental consequences of an action

Ideal Specialist Skills:

Interpreting, analysing, and reporting information/data security events and anomalies in accordance with Information Security directives
Assessing new vulnerabilities, investigating solutions, and recommending controls to minimise risks that could arise
Operating network intrusion detection, forensics, network access control, and other information security systems
Troubleshooting and resolving failed patch installations and SCCM automation jobs
Configuring and troubleshooting networks
Using network and application scanning tools and utilities, such as SCCM, Nexpose Rapid 7, HP WebInspect, HCL AppScan, Nessus, Burp Suite and NMAP
Configuring encryption protocols and algorithms
Onboarding and decommissioning devices
Maintaining an asset database

What are the transferable skills that I can bring over from a different career?

Any role in which you carry out research, closely analyse a situation or event, and share findings with colleagues may provide a foundation, with additional specialist training, for moving into Vulnerability Management.

Such roles include:

police services: detection and intelligence roles
military services: intelligence analysts
business assurance
communications engineers

Aug 28, 2024

WHAT IS A CYBERSECURITY GENERALIST?

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 10:04:53 GMT

The impact of burnout....

What is a cyber security generalist?

As a Cyber Security Generalist, you'll be largely responsible for every aspect of the security of an organisation’s data and its information systems. It's a fantastic career for someone who didn't comfortable with a niche and wants multiple specialists.

In detail, you may:

Track vulnerabilities in software, systems and networks
Identify and assess cyber threats
Identify and assess cyber security risks and recommend measures to manage them
Design security controls, including those affecting the selection and development of
systems
Draft cyber security policies and procedures, particularly for the secure operation of
systems
Test and report on the security of an organisation’s systems and networks
Manage external providers
Advise IT staff and business managers on cyber security risks and controls, including
procedures and staff behaviours
Brief and train non-cyber staff on cyber security awareness and safe practice

As a Senior Practitioner, you may also:

Be responsible for the overall performance and security of live systems
Work with managers in other teams to ensure effective cyber security across the
organisation
Recruit, train and assess practitioners

What are the transferable skills?

Personal

Remaining calm under pressure
Self-management
Communicating with non-technical colleagues about technical matters
Producing written and verbal reports
Managing suppliers
Prioritising complex sets of demands
Understanding business and user needs
Evaluating the probable social, commercial, cultural, ethical and environmental
consequences of an action Specialist
Risk assessment and management
Project management
Procurement
Cyber security awareness training
Monitoring system performance and security

Junior

IT helpdesk

Senior:

IT project manager or development manager
IT operations manager
business operations manager
security officer or manager

Can you join from other roles?

You might start, as a junior generalist practitioner, as an apprentice. If you start as a graduate you should have a degree in

Cyber security or information security
Software or computer engineering
Computer science

Or, within an organisation, you might move into this specialism from a role in:

IT development
IT management
Security
Business risk management

You might also move into this specialism from a different role in one of these cyber security specialisms:

Cyber Security Governance & Risk Management
Vulnerability Management
Cyber Security Audit & Assurance
Secure System Development
Secure Operations

If you're looking for a new role in cybersecurity then view our latest vacancies page here , or get in touch with a member of the team here

Aug 28, 2024

CYBERSECURITY AND HYBRID WORKING - IS IT STILL HOT TOPIC?

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 10:17:23 GMT

The impact of burnout....

In the past year alone, the number of cybercrimes has almost doubled that of 2019-2022. It would be an understatement to say a lot has happened since, but one thing is for sure, remote working is here to stay.

The model that seems to be gaining the most traction is a hybrid one but as we have seen from the statistics, mass remote working has created the perfect conditions for threat actors to thrive

Let’s talk about cloud-specific challenges and remote working infrastructure:

It’s telling that 41% of organizations polled by the Cloud Industry Forum still believe now that the office is a safer environment than the cloud. Moreover, a hybrid workplace will arguably require even more shuttling of data between remote workers, cloud servers and office-bound employees. This complexity will require careful managing.

There are persistent concerns over vulnerabilities and user misconfiguration of SaaS offerings, as well as reports of stolen account passwords and anxiety over the commitment of some providers to security and privacy.

So, what can you do?

We’re not going to give you obvious cybersecurity tips like strong passwords and installing updates, but here are a few extra things you can tick off to ensure ultimate security.

Turn on VPN

While you keep the VPN turned on, you secure your network from hackers and cyberspies who can intercept sensitive data, such as financial documents and customer data. Whether your remote workers work from home or a local coffee shop, staying signed into the organisational VPN is imperative to secure all important information.

Keep your devices separate

If your employees use a device provided by the business, make sure that they use it only for work. Encourage them not to use it to stream their favourite TV shows on Netflix or buy concert tickets and any other things that can be done on personal devices. And vice versa is true, don’t use your personal tablet or PC for work as it most likely lacks proper security.

Write a remote work policy for your team

If you are a remote team leader, a business owner or CISO, it is imperative that you create a strong remote working policy to help your team with risk management. Cybersecurity training is also advised which can train in incident response.

You need to cover the following topics in your remote working policy:

Compliance requirements
Information systems security
Data protection
Remote access control
Backup and media storage
Information disposal
Alternative work sites

Aug 28, 2024

RECORD LEVELS OF INVESTMENT FOR CYBER SECURITY SECTOR

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 10:23:18 GMT

The impact of burnout....

UK-registered Cyber Security firms have raised more than £1 billion external investment in 84 deals. This means more than 6,000 new jobs have been added to the UK’s 50,000-strong cyber workforce.

Britain’s tech sector continues to break records as new government data shows more than 1,800 cyber security firms generated a total of £10.1 billion in revenue in the most recent financial year, a 14 per cent increase from the previous financial year. The DCMS Annual Cyber Sector Report , which tracks the growth and performance of the UK’s cyber security industry, reveals the sector contributed around £5.3 billion to the UK economy in 2021, rising by a third on the previous year from £4 billion - the largest increase since the report began in 2018.

Employment across the industry rose by 13 per cent, with more than 6,000 new jobs created, opening up new opportunities for people up and down the UK to join the sector and share its wealth. This brings the total number of people working in cyber in the UK to 52,700.

There were 1,838 active cyber security firms in the UK in 2021. More than half are based outside of London and the South East, with cyber security showing growth in the North East and East Midlands. The report highlights this move could be a result of remote work increasing regional opportunities.

UK-registered cyber security firms attracted record levels of external investment, with more than £1 billion secured across 84 deals by companies including Bristol-based Immersive Labs, which raised £53.5 million, and London-headquartered Tessian which secured more than £52 million in funding.

This is such an exciting time for cybersecurity and also, to be joining the industry. Have a look at our latest vacancies or if you're looking to hire, get in touch.

Aug 28, 2024

TRANSFERABLE SKILLS FOR CYBERSECURITY CAREER

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 10:35:30 GMT

TRANSFERABLE SKILLS FOR CYBERSECURITY CAREER

You’ve been looking for that Cloud Security Architect for a while, haven’t you? It’s no secret that the demand for cybersecurity talent is completely enveloping the supply, but more so, there is a genuine acute shortage of advanced cybersecurity skills. It’s a simple fact that there just aren’t enough experienced cyber professionals and the ones that are available all drink in the same talent pool local. It’s a war for talent and it’s not the recruiter’s fault, they’re just looking in the wrong place, and by the wrong place I mean not under your nose.

51% of organisations believe the shortage of skills is now becoming problematic. With 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity roles by the end of 2021, rather than just pay the topic lip service NDK has designed a solution that will bridge the gap and allow the industry to thrive in a post-covid world. It involves us assessing your current workforce to find those rare skillsets that will mould the perfect cybersecurity prodigy.

The benefits of advancing your cybersecurity A-team in-house is the fact that they know your company values and will quickly learn how to interpret cybersecurity influence into them. Not to mention how easier it will be to adapt any security changes to suit the evolution of your business strategy. This isn’t a Frankenstein build, the benefits of using this method of talent acquisition are incredibly strong. They know the business, they are already influenced by the culture and they will have the ability, attitude, and competencies to become a convincing addition. It’s a win-win situation.

Your cyber team should be bringing more to the table than core functional skills but understanding security basics is key as organisations are increasingly adopting new technologies daily. Those that have a core understanding can typically learn the rest if given the right platform. The secret is in the technical knowledge; if they’re coming from a general IT, engineering, compliance, or another tech discipline then you can easily lay the foundations to create an incredibly strong cyber career.

We have crafted a transferable skills matrix that is broken down into three main categories, highlighting desirable, non-traditional skillsets for each of Cyber Engineering, Cyber Operations and GRC. Armed with business acumen, an enthusiastic attitude, digital technology competence, and of course a little common sense you can revolutionise your cybersecurity function whilst building a loyal work culture at a significantly low cost.

Get in touch with us to see our transferable skills matrix and how it can find you that Cloud Security Architect needle in your organisation’s haystack.

Jun 01, 2021

ndkcyber

The Silent Risk at the Heart of Every Business: Your Database

The Silent Risk at the Heart of Every Business: Your Database

Smarter Systems, Better DevOps?

Smarter Systems, Better DevOps?

Why Talent is Your First Brand Investment Post-Funding

Why Talent is Your First Brand Investment Post-Funding ﻿

Building Security at the Speed of Innovation wit Ankur Shah

From Cloud to AI Agents: Building Security at the Speed of Innovation

The AI Inflection Point

Why Speed Matters More Than Ever

The Shift from SaaS to Agentic AI

Security in an Agent-to-Agent World

Final Thoughts: Survival by Speed

Brand Battles: How Scaleups Can Compete for Talent Against Big Tech

This is a subtitle for your new post

Secure insights: Voice Cloning, Phishing & the $4.8M Breach: The Rise of Social Engineering

Secure insights: Voice Cloning, Phishing & the $4.8M Breach: The Rise of Social Engineering

Should Your CEO Be Posting “We’re Hiring”?

A Strategic Look at Signal vs. Substance ﻿

NDK TECH: Building a Scalable Talent Engine After Series A Funding

Building a Scalable Talent Engine After Series A Funding

1. Build Systems for People; Not Just Product

2. Bring in Strategic Support; Without Overbuilding

3. Precision Drives Performance

"The biggest risk is using AI without proper safeguards"

Secure Insights Podcast: New Episode Featuring Mohit Tiwari on DSPM and AI in Data Security

﻿

The CRO isn't a luxury hire, they’re foundational.

CROs in Cybersecurity: Driving Revenue in AI-Enhanced Markets. Do You Have One?

﻿

Opinion Piece: Cybersecurity in the USA, a closer look from the front lines

Cybersecurity in the USA: A Closer Look from the Front Lines An Opinion Piece by NDK Cyber

How AI, ML, and Cloud are Transforming Cybersecurity Defences

How AI, ML, and Cloud are Transforming Cybersecurity Defences

The Intersection of Cybersecurity Talent and Product GTM Strategies

The Intersection of Cybersecurity Talent and Product GTM Strategies

﻿

The Hidden Force Behind Scaling Cybersecurity Startups

The Hidden Force Behind Scaling Cybersecurity Startups

NDK Cyber Partners with ISTARI to Elevate Global Cyber Leadership

NDK Cyber Partners with ISTARI to Elevate Global Cyber Leadership

THE ADOPTION OF DSPM AND CSPM

﻿ The Adoption of DSPM and CSPM ﻿

The Adoption of DSPM and CSPM

The Adoption of DSPM and CSPM

53% OF CISOS SUFFER FROM BURNOUT.

﻿ 53% of CISOs suffer from burnout. ﻿

SECURE INSIGHTS RECOGNISED AS "BEST CYBERSECURITY PODCASTS WORTH LISTENING TO"

﻿ Secure Insights recognised as "Best Cybersecurity Podcasts Worth Listening To" ﻿

THE IMPACT OF BURNOUT....

﻿ The impact of burnout.... ﻿

STRATEGIES TO BUILDING A ROBUST CYBERSECURITY TEAM - THE ESSENTIALS

STRATEGIES TO BUILDING A ROBUST CYBERSECURITY TEAM - THE ESSENTIALS

HOW TO ATTRACT, AND RETAIN CISO TALENT.

﻿ HOW TO ATTRACT, AND RETAIN CISO TALENT. ﻿

HOW IS THE TALENT SHORTAGE IN CYBERSECURITY IMPACTING LEADERSHIP?

﻿ The impact of burnout.... ﻿

WHAT CYBERSECURITY CERTIFICATIONS ARE WORTH IT?

﻿ The impact of burnout.... ﻿

DIVERSITY IN CYBERSECURITY

﻿ The impact of burnout.... ﻿

WHAT ARE THEY CYBERSECURITY RISKS OF SOCIAL MEDIA?

﻿ The impact of burnout.... ﻿

WOMEN IN CYBERSECURITY

﻿ The impact of burnout.... ﻿

ONLINE DATING AND RECRUITMENT, WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

﻿ The impact of burnout.... ﻿

4 WAYS TO BE MORE PRODUCTIVE AT WORK

﻿ The impact of burnout.... ﻿

WHAT ROLE CAN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE PLAY IN CYBERSECURITY?

﻿ The impact of burnout.... ﻿

DOES THE 4-DAY WORKING WEEK WORK IN CYBER?

﻿ The impact of burnout.... ﻿

MARKET UPDATE - 5 MINUTES WITH JAMES MORRIS

﻿ The impact of burnout.... ﻿

PROTECT YOUR DATA: HOW TO HIRE THE RIGHT SECURITY ENGINEER

﻿ The impact of burnout.... ﻿

TOP CYBERSECURITY JOBS IN 2022

﻿ The impact of burnout.... ﻿

Why Talent is Your First Brand Investment Post-Funding

A Strategic Look at Signal vs. Substance

Cybersecurity in the USA: A Closer Look from the Front Lines
An Opinion Piece by NDK Cyber

The Adoption of DSPM and CSPM

53% of CISOs suffer from burnout.

Secure Insights recognised as "Best Cybersecurity Podcasts Worth Listening To"

The impact of burnout....

HOW TO ATTRACT, AND RETAIN CISO TALENT.

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

The impact of burnout....

TRANSFERABLE SKILLS FOR CYBERSECURITY CAREER