Human Factors and Technology for CISO
Introduction:
As a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) with a limited budget, balancing the allocation of funds between employee training and cybersecurity technology is crucial for maintaining a robust defense against cyber threats. The decision, therefore, will be based on weighing the human factor in cybersecurity and the effectiveness of technological solutions.
Given the overwhelming impact of human error in cybersecurity incidents, I would apportion approximately 60% of the given budget to training and 40% to cybersecurity technology. While both are important, this approach leans more toward the human aspect in cybersecurity. This budget for training shall be invested in designing a holistic security awareness program for all employees, which shall cover identification of phishing emails, safe browsing habits, and good data handling practices. IT and security staff would be specially trained in incident response, threat hunting, and security architecture. Technology budget investments would involve core security tools: next-generation firewalls, endpoint detection and response solutions, and security information and event management systems.
The strategy herein described to apportion these resources tries to create a “human firewall” that, with a good technological defense in place, greatly reduces the chance of successful cyberattacks. Emphasizing training would solve the problem of the weakest link in the security chain: human behavior and of course, this is still a very important investment in essential technology to defend against cyber threats effectively (Payne et al., 2018).
Conclusion:
This balanced approach-emphasizing human awareness and technological capabilities in equal measure-creates a robust, adaptive security posture that recognizes well-trained employees extend the reach of the security team as sensors throughout the organization, who are able to identify and report on boundless potential threats. In so doing, the strategy underpins the understanding that cybercrime is a socially constructed problem-one that requires not just technical but also multifaceted means to defeat (Payne & Hadzhidimova, n.d.).
References
Payne, B. K., Hawkins, B., & Xin, C. (2018). Using labeling theory as a guide to examine the patterns, characteristics, and sanctions given to cybercrimes. American Journal of Criminal Justice. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12103-018-9457-3
Payne, B. K., & Hadzhidimova, L. Cybersecurity and Criminal Justice: Exploring the Intersections. International Journal of Criminal Justice Sciences. https://sites.wp.odu.edu/cyse-200/wp-content/uploads/sites/14757/2019/05/payne-hadzidimova.pdf