2021 has been a banner year for cybersecurity awareness. Large-scale attacks, such as the SolarWinds and Colonial Pipeline attacks, have dominated the headlines, and the number of data breaches reported in 2021 already exceeds last year’s total. Global spending on cybersecurity is predicted to reach $150 billion by the year’s end, marking a 12.4% annual increase.
In the wake of surges in ransomware and supply chain attacks, along with the continuing challenge of securing remote and hybrid work environments, organizations are prioritizing security. According to a global survey published by Gartner, two-thirds of IT executives plan to increase their investments in cybersecurity next year. Gartner expects this prioritization to continue and predicts that 60% of organizations will incorporate cybersecurity risk as a determining factor in conducting business deals by 2025.
As organizations plan their security investments over the next few years, many will start 2022 by looking for a cybersecurity partner. Contracting a specialized cybersecurity firm is an effective means of enlisting scarce technical expertise and ensuring that limited resources are deployed strategically. However, not all cybersecurity partners are created equal. There are several factors you should consider when determining if a firm is a good match.
Customizable Services
Each organization’s priorities, security capabilities and risks are unique. Avoid firms that only provide one-size-fits-all solutions. Your cybersecurity strategy should be informed by a thorough assessment of your organization’s specific environment and cybersecurity maturity level. Look for a partner that can tailor services to your situation.
Long-Term Solutions
Seek to partner with a firm that can deliver long-term, sustainable solutions. Continuous monitoring, threat intelligence, workforce development and training are critical to designing a security program that can scale and adapt as your business grows and evolves.
Certifications
Review the firm’s industry certifications. Certifications from leading cybersecurity programs and standardization organizations, such as FedRAMP and ISO, provide evidence of deep expertise. Pay special attention to partners with certifications that align with your organization’s accreditation goals and industry-specific standards.
Regulatory Compliance Expertise
Select a partner with expertise in regulations that impact your organization. If you handle medical records, look for partners with HIPAA knowledge. If you have European customers, you’ll want a firm that understands the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Holistic Approach
Effective cybersecurity programs must excel in diverse functions, ranging from configuration hardening to incident response to documentation development. Consider working with a partner that offers comprehensive cybersecurity services, who can help unify these overlapping security functions, aligning your security posture with overarching business objectives under a single, holistic approach.
MBL Technologies has been partnering with organizations to develop tailor-made, long-term security solutions in the federal and commercial markets for 14 years. Contact us to learn how we can help you build a sustainable, affordable and effective cybersecurity program.
