1. What are the costs and benefits of developing cybersecurity programs in business?

The cost and benefits of developing cybersecurity programs in business is essential to the success and daily functioning of most businesses today. The costs of having a cyber security program are financial investments-“This includes acquiring security software, hiring skilled personnel, conducting regular security audits, and investing in training programs for employees. The initial setup and ongoing maintenance costs can be substantial”, operation distribution-Upgrading systems, implementing new protocols, and regularly monitoring for threats can temporarily slow down workflows, affecting productivity, and resource allocation-Gathering financial or personal help to aid the process. The common theme of the costs is that they all require some type of commitment or dedication to reach their long-term security goals also known as a “target profile”. These costs represent use of resources whether that be time, finances, even basic attention in the attempt to ensure safe and reliable defenses against potential threats and vulnerabilities. Although the immediate impact on workflow or usable resources these costs are mandatory in fortifying company information and preventing larger more detrimental losses due to attacks like a data breach. Thus, the costs short term is outweighed by the organization’s guidelines by protecting and promoting business. The benefits of having cybersecurity programs in business is minimizing the probability of risks and attacks, having set rules and guidelines to adhere to, protection of assets, promoted company reputation, and a competitive advantage. This can easily be displayed with the right marketing and strategies. With a business having a clear and concise guideline to follow it allows everyone in the chain of command from the CEO to the regular employees to customers that there are expectations and procedures in place to ensure safety and protection.