First issue is what might be called the consumerization of corporate IT: the increased addition of personal computing devices into the IT infrastructure of a business. More and more wireless tablets, smartphones and many other types of consumer-oriented electronics are becoming more closely attached to a company's computer network. There is little control over these devices by those in charge of the company's computer security. Work and home have become less separate; a security issue with one executive's home computing systems can easily migrate into the company network. In addition, the applications built for those devices and haphazardly installed by both staff and managers are likely not as rigorously developed and tested as corporate applications -- compliance with government and financial regulations may be compromised and secure confidential business information may end up be in public view.
The second issue is the expansion of company data and networking into arenas in which the company has to share control. Data exchange that ties the company to both customers and suppliers might also be infiltrated for purposes of corporate espionage; a company may find its data centers might actually be deemed part of a critical national infrastructure and then must work with government agencies on computer security.
The third issue is the convergence of the many varied avenues of cyber-attack. Several years ago, a company could focus on, say, email security or data privacy as separate agenda items. But now, because of the increasing sophistication of cyber-criminals, exploits against a company may proceed on several different levels, all coordinated to cause maximum damage.
Companies that use IT technology to further their business, as well as those whose business is IT technology, must recognize that a consolidated approach to cyber-security is necessary to combat these converging trends. Internal security procedures must be aligned to a common goal, contacts with the world beyond the company must all be examined in a computer security context and employees must be trained and briefed on recognizing and dealing with cyber-threats they have never encountered before.
Kimberly Dovander
Kimberly is the pro blogger in the WHS family. WordPress, Blogger, Tumblr... It doesn't matter - she knows them all. Send her a question, or a drop a line in the comment section below, and she'll get back to you.
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