As organisations rush to align themselves with the latest frameworks like NIST and ISO27001, many will be unaware that a security learning environment is at the heart of many. NIST 800-53, ISO27001-2022, NIST CSF.2 and NCSC Ten Steps all have clear requirements for a robust security culture  - one that learns and responds to risk. So if the world’s leading security experts recognise this, then why don’t many CEOs,  CISOs and Heads of Cyber? Why are they still rushing to technical solutions without understanding the value of their data and information and how it’s vulnerable?

The Human Element: Your greatest asset and vulnerability

Research indicates that human error is the primary cause of data breaches, with IBM Security estimating that 95% of incidents stem from human behaviours not technical failures. So while organisations are focused on investing heavily in technological solutions like firewalls, they are missing the very thing that makes them vulnerable - their workforce. 

This IBM statistic alone underscores the critical importance of cultivating a security-aware workforce. By instilling a strong security culture and an understanding of the value of data and information, organisations can significantly reduce their exposure to risks arising from inadvertent 'everyday' incidents. They will also be increasing vigilance against potential threats.

The Tangible Benefits of a Strong Security Culture

Organisations that prioritise security culture reap substantial benefits:

1. A more successful organisation: An empowered and enabled workforce can be an enabler of change and innovation. If a secure culture exists, it will help the organisation succeed in its wider objectives.
2. Early threat detection: Employees trained to identify potential threats can prevent attacks before they materialise, significantly reducing the risk of successful breaches.
3. Minimised damage: In the event of an attack, security-savvy colleagues can limit the spread of infection, potentially saving millions in damages and recovery costs.
4. Enhanced stakeholder confidence and business wins: Robust security practices build trust among customers, partners, and regulators, which is invaluable in today's competitive landscape.
5. Improved compliance: Organisations with a strong cyber and info security culture are 70% more likely to meet compliance requirements for data protection regulations.

The role of leadership in cultivating a secure working environment or culture

As a CEO or CISO, your commitment to security is paramount. Research from Gartner indicates that organisations with a strong security culture experience 30% fewer security incidents than those without one. This reduction in incidents translates directly to cost savings and improved operational efficiency. So how do you achieve that?

Firstly, it is not created by a software tool you buy in. Yes that is part of the jigsaw, but how does that software know your organisations unwritten ways of working? How does a one off or regular phishing simulation stop people leaving documents on a bus or emailing them to the wrong person? It doesn’t - it takes more than one event or channel. It takes time and experience. You need to understand nuance, working practices, the idiosyncrasies of professions within the organisation. And it starts at the top of the organisation.

So for CEOs and CISOs, take time to understand the need for a culture and move away from dependency on technology. It is not the sole solution. Remember:

1. Align security to your organisation objectives: Security is an enabler of an organisation - it must align with wider strategic goals.
2. Lead by example: Demonstrate your commitment to security through your actions and decisions.
3. Allocate resources: Invest in comprehensive security training programmes and tools that support your security initiatives. Don’t rely on one-off e-learning - it doesn’t meet the need.
4. Encourage reporting: Create an environment where employees feel safe reporting security concerns without fear of reprisal.
5. Recognise and reward: Implement systems to celebrate security-conscious behaviour, reinforcing positive practices across the organisation.

In an era where cyber threats pose significant risks to business continuity and success, prioritising a security culture is not just prudent—it's imperative. By fostering an environment where security is everyone's responsibility, you not only protect your organisation's assets but also create a competitive advantage. Remember, a strong security culture is a journey, not a destination. It requires ongoing commitment, resources, and adaptation to stay ahead of evolving threats.

As a senior leader, your leadership in this area can be the difference between vulnerability and resilience. Embrace the challenge, and lead your organisation towards a more secure future.