In today’s digital age, businesses face an array of cyber threats that can disrupt operations, compromise sensitive data, and damage reputation. At Mindquest, we understand the importance of digital resilience in safeguarding businesses against these threats. Therefore, we discuss practical strategies that businesses can implement to fortify their digital resilience and ensure long-term success.
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What are Digital Resilience Strategies?
A digital resilience strategy refers to a proactive approach taken by businesses to mitigate the impact of cyber threats and disruptions on their operations, data, and reputation. It also involves implementing a combination of technical controls, employee training, incident response plans. And collaboration with cybersecurity partners to fortify defenses and ensure business continuity in the face of cyber attacks. A digital resilience strategy aims to build adaptive and agile business processes that can withstand and recover from cyber incidents effectively.
In this blog post, we’ve explored practical strategies for businesses to strengthen their digital resilience in the face of evolving cyber threats
1. Invest in Cybersecurity Training and Education
Firstly, one of the most effective ways to enhance digital resilience is by investing in cybersecurity training and education for employees. Provide regular training sessions to educate staff about common cyber threats, phishing scams, and best practices for data protection. By empowering employees with the knowledge and skills to identify and mitigate risks, businesses can also create a culture of cybersecurity awareness throughout the organization.
Then, a robust cybersecurity strategy should include multi-layered security measures to protect against various types of cyber threats. Implement firewalls, antivirus software, intrusion detection systems, and encryption technologies to safeguard network infrastructure and sensitive data. Additionally, consider implementing multi-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security to user accounts and prevent unauthorized access.
3. Keep Software and Systems Up to Date
Moreover, outdated software and systems are often vulnerable to cyber attacks, as they may contain known security vulnerabilities. Ensure that all software applications, operating systems, and firmware are regularly updated with the latest security patches and fixes. Also, establish a patch management process to monitor for updates and apply them promptly to minimize the risk of exploitation by cybercriminals.
4. Conduct Regular Security Audits and Risk Assessments
In addition, regular security audits and risk assessments are essential for identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses in business systems and processes. Also, conduct comprehensive assessments to identify potential security gaps, evaluate existing controls, and prioritize remediation efforts. By proactively addressing security risks, businesses can strengthen their digital resilience and minimize the likelihood of cyber attacks.
5. Establish Incident Response Plans
Then, despite best efforts to prevent cyber attacks, businesses should be prepared to respond effectively in the event of a security incident. Establish incident response plans outlining roles, responsibilities, and procedures for detecting, containing, and mitigating cyber threats. Also, conduct regular tabletop exercises and simulations to test the effectiveness of incident response plans. And ensure that employees are prepared to respond to real-world scenarios.
6. Foster Collaboration with Cybersecurity Partners
In conclusion, collaboration with cybersecurity partners, such as managed security service providers (MSSPs) or cybersecurity consultants, can provide businesses with additional expertise and resources to enhance digital resilience. Partner with reputable cybersecurity firms to conduct security assessments, develop customized security solutions, and provide ongoing support and monitoring. By leveraging external expertise, businesses can strengthen their cybersecurity posture and stay ahead of evolving threats.
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As we live in a digitalized world, businesses find themselves intricately intertwined with technology, making cybersecurity indispensable for their survival and success. As European businesses embark on their digital journey, safeguarding their operations and assets from a myriad of cyber threats becomes paramount. This comprehensive exploration delves into European cybersecurity policy tailored to fortify businesses’ digital resilience, ensuring they navigate the digital frontier securely and confidently.
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Navigating the Digital Frontier
For businesses, the digital frontier presents both opportunities and challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated digital transformation, emphasizing the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect business operations and assets. As businesses increasingly rely on digital infrastructure for operations and customer interactions, the importance of comprehensive cybersecurity strategies cannot be overstated.
A cybersecurity policy for business is a comprehensive set of guidelines, procedures, and protocols that outline how an organization will protect its digital assets, information, and systems from cyber threats.
This policy typically covers various aspects of cybersecurity, including data protection, network security, employee training, incident response, and compliance with relevant regulations and standards. It serves as a roadmap for ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the organization’s data and systems while minimizing the risks posed by cyber attacks and breaches.
Additionally, the policy may include provisions for risk assessment, access control, encryption, and regular security audits to continually assess and enhance the organization’s cybersecurity posture.
Ultimately, a well-defined cybersecurity policy is essential for businesses to effectively manage cyber risks and safeguard their operations, reputation, and customer trust in today’s digital landscape.
The European Cybersecurity Landscape: A Strategic Imperative
At the heart of the EU’s cybersecurity efforts lies a framework designed to foster resilience, promote innovation, and ensure collaboration in the face of emerging cyber threats. The EU Cybersecurity Strategy provides a roadmap for businesses to enhance their cybersecurity posture and navigate the digital landscape securely.
Resilience, Sovereignty, and Leadership: Pillars of Cybersecurity Strategy
Resilience, technological sovereignty, and collaborative leadership emerge as the guiding principles of the EU’s cybersecurity strategy. By fortifying essential services, nurturing technological autonomy, and fostering collaborative leadership, the EU endeavors to navigate the digital landscape securely. Initiatives such as the Joint Cyber Unit exemplify the EU’s commitment to collective action and rapid response in the event of cyber incidents. Underscoring the importance of solidarity and cooperation in safeguarding the digital realm.
Operational Capacity and Response: Mobilizing Cyber Defenses
Operational capacity and rapid response mechanisms are fundamental for businesses to mitigate cyber threats effectively. The Cyber Resilience Act, enacted in 2024, strengthens cybersecurity rules to promote the security of hardware and software products, enhancing overall cyber resilience within the EU. Investments in cyber capacities further empower businesses to detect, deter, and respond to cyber threats proactively.
Global Cooperation and Open Cyberspace: Fostering Collaborative Security
In an interconnected world, global cooperation is paramount to safeguarding cyberspace. The EU also advocates for an open and secure internet, fostering collaboration with international partners to advance cybersecurity norms and standards. Therefore, initiatives such as the EU-US Cyber Dialogue exemplify the EU’s commitment to global cyber resilience. Thus underscoring the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing shared cyber challenges.
Navigating the Legislative Framework: European Cybersecurity Policy
European cybersecurity policy provide a robust framework aimed at ensuring a high common level of cybersecurity across businesses. Directives such as the NIS2 Directive mandate measures for enhancing cybersecurity resilience, while regulations like the Cybersecurity Act establish EU-wide certification frameworks to instill trust in IT products and services. Also, the proposed Cyber Solidarity Act underscores the EU’s commitment to collective defense and solidarity in the face of emerging cyber risks, providing a legal framework for businesses to collaborate and respond to cyber threats collectively.
Investing in Cybersecurity: Empowering Innovation and Resilience
Investment in cybersecurity also emerges as a strategic imperative for the EU. Thus reflecting its commitment to fostering innovation and resilience in the digital domain. This is why initiatives such as Horizon Europe and the Digital Europe Programme allocate significant resources to cybersecurity. And this in terms of research, innovation, and capacity building. Ensuring that the EU remains at the forefront of cyber resilience and technological innovation. By investing in cyber capacities and deployment, the EU seeks to strengthen its cyber defenses. In addition they adapt proactively to emerging cyber threats, underscoring the importance of strategic investment in safeguarding the digital realm.
Building Cyber Skills and Awareness: Empowering the Digital Workforce
A skilled workforce and heightened public awareness are indispensable to effective cybersecurity. The EU invests in cybersecurity education and training initiatives to address the skills gap and empower individuals to navigate the digital landscape securely.
Initiatives such as the EU Cyber Skills Academy and the European Cyber Security Month underscore the EU’s commitment to building cyber skills and awareness, fostering a culture of cybersecurity across society.
Engaging in Cyber Dialogues: Nurturing Collaborative Partnerships
Cyber dialogues serve as platforms for nurturing collaborative partnerships and advancing shared interests in cybersecurity policy. Through initiatives such as the EU-US Cyber Dialogue and partnerships with countries like India and Japan, the EU fosters cooperation. Moreover it builds capacity, and addresses emerging cyber threats collectively. By engaging in cyber dialogues, the EU reaffirms its commitment to multilateralism and collaborative security in cyberspace. Thus underscoring the importance of dialogue and cooperation in addressing shared cyber challenges.
Demystifying European Cybersecurity: Answering Key Questions
In the dynamic landscape of the digital age, European cybersecurity laws play a pivotal role in ensuring a high common level of cybersecurity across member states.
🧑⚖️ What is the cyber law in Europe?
European cybersecurity laws are governed by directives and policy aimed at ensuring a high common level of cybersecurity across businesses operating within the EU.
At the forefront of European cybersecurity legislation stands the NIS2 Directive. A cornerstone directive aimed at enhancing the security of network and information systems across critical sectors. Enacted to address the cross-border nature of cyber threats, the NIS2 Directive mandates measures for identifying, managing, and mitigating cybersecurity risks. Thus ensuring a coordinated approach to cyber resilience across member states.
🛡️What is the EU Cyber Resilience Act 2024?
Complementing the NIS2 Directive is the Cyber Resilience Act, enacted in 2024 to bolster cybersecurity rules. Moreover it promotes the security of hardware and software products. By establishing robust cybersecurity requirements for digital elements, the Cyber Resilience Act enhances overall cyber resilience within the EU. Thus mitigating vulnerabilities and fortifying the digital ecosystem against evolving threats.
🔒What is the EU policy on cyber Defence?
The EU’s policy on cyber defense focuses on enhances coordination, cooperation, and investments in cyber defense capabilities. Central to this policy is the imperative to protect citizens and business from cyber threats through collaborative partnerships.
Initiatives such as the Cybersecurity Act and Cyber Solidarity Act underscore the EU’s commitment to fostering a secure cyber environment. The Cybersecurity Act, with its EU-wide certification framework, instills public trust in IT products and services. Thus ensuring stringent cybersecurity standards across the digital landscape. Meanwhile, the Cyber Solidarity Act, proposed to improve the EU’s response to cyber threats. It emphasizes collective defense and solidarity in the face of emerging cyber risks, fostering resilience and collaboration across member states.
🤖What is the Regulation of cyber security?
European cybersecurity policy encompass directives and regulations aimed at establishing a high common level of cybersecurity across businesses operating within the EU. These regulations span a spectrum of measures. From enhancing resilience and operational capacity to promoting global cooperation and investment in cybersecurity initiatives.
The regulatory landscape is characterized by a commitment to fostering innovation, resilience, and collaboration in the face of evolving cyber threats. By establishing clear guidelines and standards, European cybersecurity policy empower stakeholders to navigate the digital landscape securely. Thus fostering trust and confidence in the digital ecosystem.
Conclusion: Navigating the Digital Frontier
In conclusion, in an era defined by rapid technological advancement and interconnectedness, European cybersecurity legislation serves as a beacon of resilience, innovation, and collaboration for businesses. By fortifying critical infrastructure, enhancing cyber defense capabilities, and fostering global partnerships, the EU also endeavors to safeguard its citizens and businesses in an increasingly digitized world.
Legend of terms and acronyms
Last but not least, here is a list of terms and acronyms used in this guide for an easier and pleasant reading.
NIS2 Directive: Directive on Security of Network and Information Systems 2
Cyber Resilience Act: Legislation aimed at enhancing cyber resilience
Horizon Europe: EU Research and Innovation Framework Programme
EU Cyber Skills Academy: Educational initiative for cybersecurity skills training
EU-US Cyber Dialogue: Dialogue between the EU and the United States on cybersecurity
EU Cybersecurity Strategy: Strategic framework for EU cybersecurity
Joint Cyber Unit: EU initiative for collaborative cyber incident response
Digital Europe Programme: EU programme for digital transformation
Cyber Solidarity Act: Proposed legislation to improve EU’s response to cyber threats
NIS2 Directive: Directive on Security of Network and Information Systems 2
Cybersecurity Act: EU legislation establishing cybersecurity certification frameworks
EU-US Cyber Dialogue: Dialogue between the EU and the United States on cybersecurity
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The development of mobile applications presents some unique security challenges compared to web applications and other forms of software. Therefore, this cheat sheet provides guidance on security considerations for mobile application development. It is a starting point for developers to consider security in mobile application development.
Don’t just build apps; build secure digital experiences
Download your essential guide to fortifying your applications from the ground up. From secure architecture principles to user authentication best practices, this cheat sheet is your go-to resource for ensuring airtight security in every line of code. To do so, download our comprehensive Mobile Application Security Cheat here.
Why Mobile App Security Matters
Security is not an afterthought; it’s the foundation. A secure mobile app starts with a secure design. Following principles like least privilege, defense in depth, and separation of concerns lays the groundwork for a robust security architecture. In addition, theNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) provide industry standards and best practices to guide developers in creating applications with security at their core.
Secure by Design: Opt for a secure design at the inception of development. Security should not be an add-on but an integral part of the development process.
Secure APIs: The communication between your mobile app and backend services must be secure. Utilize OAuth2, JWT, or similar protocols for authentication.
Principle of Least Privilege: Only request the permissions your app needs. This applies to both user-granted device permissions and permissions granted by backend services.
Supply Chain: Third-party libraries bring efficiency but can also introduce security unknowns. Ensure app signing, use trusted libraries, and establish controls for updates, patches, and releases.
Ensuring User Authentication & Authorization
Authentication is a complex landscape, and overlooking it can lead to significant pitfalls. Here’s how to navigate it securely:
Don’t Trust the Client: Perform authentication/authorization server-side. Load data on the device only after successful authentication.
Credential Handling: Never hardcode credentials. Encrypt them during transmission and consider secure, revocable access tokens.
Password and PIN Policy: Enforce password complexity, disallow short PINs, and use platform-specific secure storage mechanisms.
Biometric Authentication: Utilize platform-supported biometric authentication methods with a reliable fallback, such as a PIN.
Session Management: Implement timeouts, remote logout features, and use randomly generated session tokens.
Protecting User Data: Data Storage & Privacy
Data Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data both at rest and in transit. Use platform APIs for encryption; avoid implementing custom encryption algorithms.
Data Leakage: Then, beware of potential leaks through caching, logging, and background snapshots. Refer to the Logging Cheat Sheet to safeguard against data that should not be logged.
Use HTTPS: Also, always use HTTPS for network communications. Ensure third-party libraries are secure and up-to-date.
Navigating Network Communication Challenges
Don’t Trust the Network: Firstly, assume all network communication is insecure and can be intercepted.
Use Secure Protocols: Then, employ HTTPS for all network communication. Avoid mixed-version SSL sessions.
Certificate Pinning: Also, consider certificate pinning to enhance security.
User Interface Best Practices
UI Data Masking: Mask sensitive information on UI fields to prevent shoulder surfing.
User Notifications: Keep users informed about security-related activities, such as logins from new devices.
Input Validation: Validate and sanitize user input. Refer to the Input Validation Cheat Sheet for detailed insights.
Code Quality: A Developer’s Responsibility
Application security testing: Use tools for vulnerability identification, such as SAST (Static Application Security Testing), DAST (Dynamic Application Security Testing) and IAST (Interactive Application Security Testing).
Code Reviews: Make security a focus during reviews.
Update Libraries: Keep libraries up to date to patch vulnerabilities.
Software composition analysis (SCA): Identify the open source software in a codebase.
Application Integrity: Disable debugging, validate code integrity, and obfuscate the app binary.
Testing: Conduct penetration testing, automated tests, and usability testing to ensure robust security features.
Post-Deployment Considerations
Incident Response: Firstly, have a clear incident response plan in place.
Updates: Then, plan for regular updates and patches. Implement mechanisms to prompt users to update their app versions when necessary.
Monitoring and Analytics: Also, use real-time monitoring to detect and respond to potential threats.
Platform-Specific Guidance
Android: Use ProGuard for code obfuscation. Avoid storing sensitive data in SharedPreferences.
iOS: Implement App Transport Security (ATS) for secure network communication. Avoid storing sensitive data in plist files.
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The increasing prevalence of IoT devices in homes worldwide raises cybersecurity concerns, emphasizing the need for proper usage to safeguard homes and families.
Common IoT Devices and Associated Cybersecurity Risks
IoT devices such as smartwatches, distance-measuring sneakers, home automation applications, and more, while enhancing convenience, also pose security risks if not used cautiously. These connected devices are susceptible to hacking, potentially compromising personal information and, in the case of geolocation-enabled devices, even indicating when homes are vacant.
Reports suggest that 2024 will see a surge in cybersecurity risk and threats to IoT devices. Therefore, awareness of these risks is crucial, prompting the need for users to secure their devices effectively.
The most common cybersecurity risk associated with IoT devices include personal data theft, knowledge of home habits, family geolocation access, fraudulent purchases, physical theft, identity theft, malware introduction, and illicit trading of personal data or images in underground markets.
To mitigate these risks, Mindquest‘s experts recommend the following cybersecurity measures for IoT devices on a global scale:
Create Separate Networks: Establish dedicated networks for IoT devices using intelligent routers that create virtual networks. This prevents potential infections from spreading between computers and IoT devices.
Strong, Unique Passwords: Implement robust and distinct passwords for each IoT device, with regular password changes to enhance security.
Disable UPnP Protocol: Turn off Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) to hinder devices from easily discovering each other.
Regular Updates: Install the latest updates promptly, as they often include crucial security patches to address vulnerabilities.
Download from Official Sources: Obtain mobile apps exclusively from official markets to reduce the risk of downloading compromised applications.
Prioritize Security Settings: Review and prioritize the security settings of IoT devices over other functionalities to enhance overall protection.
Turn Off When Not in Use: Disable IoT devices when not in use to minimize the exposure to potential security threats.
User Training in Cybersecurity: Provide users with training and awareness programs on cybersecurity, especially for those utilizing IoT devices.
Cybersecurity Challenges of Smartwatches
As an illustrative example, we at Mindquest highlighted cybersecurity concerns specific to smartwatches:
Lack of Cybersecurity Standards: Smartwatches, like other IoT devices, face challenges due to the absence of specific cybersecurity standards.
Sensitive Information Collection: Smartwatches gather extensive personalized information, including GPS location, application notifications, biometric and health data, training information, and payment transactions, making them susceptible to data breaches.
Vulnerabilities in Design and Connectivity: The design and connectivity of smartwatches pose vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. Weak user passwords and outdated systems further compromise security.
Limitations on Antivirus Software: Some smartwatches do not support antivirus software, leaving them exposed to potential threats.
Lack of Two-Factor Authentication: Absence of two-factor authentication in certain smartwatch designs increases vulnerability, especially in payment transactions.
Automatic Pairing Risks: Automatic pairing with other devices poses risks, necessitating the need to disable this function to prevent unintended connections with public or insecure Wi-Fi or Bluetooth networks.
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In the hectic world of technology, integrating security into every stage of the development process has become more than a best practice, it is a necessity. Therefore, DevSecOps, the fusion of development, security, and operations, is reshaping the IT recruiting landscape and creating a surge in demand for professionals with DevSecOps skills.
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Understanding the DevSecOps paradigm
DevSecOpsrepresents a cultural shift in the approach to software development. Thus, it emphasizes collaboration, communication, and shared responsibility for security throughout the entire development lifecycle. This departure from traditional methodologies makes security an integral and proactive part of the process, rather than a reactive afterthought.
Certainly, in an era rife with cyber threats and breaches, organizations are increasingly adopting a security-oriented mindset. DevSecOps offers a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating security risks early in development, minimizing the impact of potential vulnerabilities, and improving overall cybersecurity.
Impact on development pipelines
DevSecOps transforms the traditional software development lifecycle by incorporating security practices at every stage. From planning to coding to testing and deployment, this approach streamlines processes, improves efficiency, and ensures that security is not a bottleneck but an integral part of the development pipeline.
To thrive in the DevSecOps era, professionals need a specific skill set. These include experience in automation, knowledge of security best practices, and the ability to collaborate seamlessly with development and operations teams. Organizations are looking for people who can bridge the gap between traditionally isolated departments, promoting a holistic approach to security.
Recruiting in the DevSecOps era
As organizations move toward DevSecOps, IT recruiting strategies must evolve accordingly. Recruiters and hiring managers now look for candidates with a comprehensive understanding of DevSecOps practices. The ability to assess how candidates integrate security into their mindset and workflows becomes a crucial aspect of the hiring process.
Certifications and continuous learning
For professionals who wish to thrive in the DevSecOps industry, certifications play a critical role. Certifications validate skills and demonstrate a commitment to staying current on industry best practices. From the Certified DevSecOps Professional (CDP) to the AWS Certified DevOps Engineer, these certifications can enhance a candidate’s marketability and make them more attractive to employers.
In conclusion, the rise of DevSecOps is not merely a technological evolution but a cultural one. The demand for DevSecOps skills is indicative of a shift towards a more secure, collaborative, and efficient development environment. As the IT recruitment landscape adapts to this change, organizations and professionals alike must invest in continuous learning, collaboration, and a security-first mindset to thrive in the era of DevSecOps.
Dive into our latest infographic for an illuminating visual journey through the key statistics and benefits of adopting DevSecOps practices.
DevSecOps is a collaborative approach to software development that integrates security practices into every phase of the development lifecycle. It emphasizes a cultural shift, breaking down silos between development, security, and operations teams to create a more secure and efficient software delivery process.
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What does DevSecOps stand for?
DevSecOps stands for Development, Security, and Operations. And it signifies the convergence of these three domains to ensure that security is not an isolated concern but an integral part of the entire development and deployment process.
Why is DevSecOps important in software development ?
DevSecOps is crucial because it addresses security challenges early in the development process, reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing the overall security posture of software. Moreover, it promotes a proactive approach, fostering collaboration and communication between traditionally segregated teams.
The benefits of DevSecOps include improved security, faster delivery of software, enhanced collaboration, early detection of vulnerabilities, and a more streamlined and automated development pipeline. Also, it ultimately leads to increased efficiency, reduced risk, and a culture of continuous improvement. More in details:
1. Enhanced Security Posture
Firstly, DevSecOps fundamentally strengthens the security posture of software by integrating security measures at every stage of the development lifecycle. This proactive approach minimizes vulnerabilities, reducing the risk of security breaches and data compromises. It ensures that security is not an afterthought but an integral part of the software’s DNA.
Beyond security, DevSecOps expedites the delivery of software. By automating processes, minimizing manual interventions, and streamlining workflows, development teams can release software faster without compromising on quality. This agility is essential in meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving market.
3. Fostered Collaboration
Then, DevSecOps promotes a collaborative environment by breaking down traditional silos between development, security, and operations teams. Communication flows seamlessly, and teams work together towards common goals. This collaborative spirit not only enhances the quality of the software but also contributes to a positive and innovative organizational culture.
4. Early Detection of Vulnerabilities
One of the standout benefits is the early identification and remediation of vulnerabilities. Through automated testing and continuous monitoring, DevSecOps allows teams to catch and address security issues in their infancy. This prevents security flaws from escalating and reaching production environments, saving both time and resources.
5. Streamlined and Automated Development Pipeline
Also, DevSecOps relies heavily on automation, resulting in a more efficient and streamlined development pipeline. Automated testing, deployment, and monitoring significantly reduce manual efforts and potential errors. This not only accelerates the development process but also ensures a consistent and reliable deployment pipeline.
6. Increased Efficiency and Resource Optimization
Moreover, efficiency is a cornerstone of DevSecOps. By automating repetitive tasks and minimizing bottlenecks, organizations can optimize resource utilization. This efficiency extends beyond the development team to the entire organization, allowing for a more agile response to market demands and a better allocation of human resources.
7. Risk Reduction
Through its security-first approach, DevSecOps actively mitigates risks associated with software development. By addressing security concerns early and continuously monitoring for potential threats, the likelihood of security incidents and their subsequent impacts is significantly reduced. This risk reduction is a critical factor in maintaining the trust of users and stakeholders.
8. Cultural Shift Towards Continuous Improvement
Last but not least, DevSecOps instills a culture of continuous improvement within organizations. Therefore, teams are encouraged to learn from each iteration, share insights, and implement feedback promptly. This cultural shift fosters a mindset of adaptability, innovation, and a commitment to refining processes for ongoing success.
Dive into our latest infographic for an illuminating visual journey through the key statistics and benefits of adopting DevSecOps practices. Image
How does DevSecOps work?
DevSecOps works by integrating security practices seamlessly into the development pipeline. This involves automation of security checks, continuous monitoring, and collaboration between development, security, and operations teams. The goal is to identify and address security issues early, ensuring that security is not a hindrance but an enabler of innovation.
What does a DevSecOps Consultant do?
A DevSecOps Consultant is responsible for guiding organizations in adopting DevSecOps practices. This includes assessing current processes, recommending improvements, implementing security measures, and educating teams on best practices. Also, consultants play a pivotal role in creating a security-conscious culture and ensuring the successful implementation of DevSecOps. Read the entire job description of the DevSecOps Engineer.
What is the DevSecOps culture in software development ?
The DevSecOps culture revolves around collaboration, communication, and shared responsibility for security. Thus, it encourages a proactive mindset, where security is integrated into the daily workflows of all team members. Continuous learning, adaptability, and a commitment to improving security practices are key aspects of the DevSecOps culture.
Best practices of DevSecOps include integrating security early in the development process, automating security checks, fostering collaboration between teams, implementing continuous monitoring, and prioritizing a proactive approach to security. Regular training and knowledge sharing also contribute to a successful DevSecOps implementation.
Following we listed our 10 best DevSecOps best practices:
1. Security as Code
Going beyond merely integrating security, DevSecOps embraces the concept of “Security as Code.” This involves treating security policies, configurations, and controls as integral parts of the codebase. By codifying security measures, teams ensure consistency and traceability throughout the development lifecycle.
2. Shift-Left Approach
The best practices of DevSecOps advocate for a “Shift-Left” approach, meaning that security is introduced as early as possible in the development process. By addressing security considerations from the project’s inception, teams can identify and rectify potential vulnerabilities at a stage when corrections are less resource-intensive.
3. Automation of Security Checks
Also, automation is a cornerstone of DevSecOps best practices. Security checks, including code analysis, vulnerability scanning, and compliance assessments, are automated throughout the development pipeline. This not only accelerates the feedback loop but also ensures that security measures are consistently applied without reliance on manual interventions.
4. Collaboration Across Teams
The essence of DevSecOps lies in breaking down silos between development, security, and operations teams. The consequently best practices emphasize fostering collaboration and communication across these traditionally segregated domains. Also, cross-functional teams collaborate seamlessly, ensuring that security considerations are understood and implemented cohesively.
5. Continuous Monitoring and Feedback
Moreover, DevSecOps emphasizes continuous monitoring of applications and infrastructure in real-time. This involves implementing monitoring tools that detect security incidents, track compliance, and provide feedback to development teams promptly. Also, continuous monitoring ensures a proactive stance against emerging threats.
6. Proactive Threat Modeling
Best practices encourage proactive threat modeling during the design phase. Teams systematically identify and assess potential security threats and vulnerabilities before a single line of code is written. Consequently, this proactive approach allows for the implementation of preventive measures, reducing the likelihood of security issues in the final product.
7. Container Security
With the rise of containerization, DevSecOps best practices extend to securing containerized applications. This involves implementing container security measures, such as scanning container images for vulnerabilities, ensuring secure container orchestration, and applying access controls within containerized environments.
8. Incident Response Readiness
Then, DevSecOps best practices emphasize the importance of being prepared for security incidents. Thus creating and regularly testing incident response plans, ensuring that teams are equipped to respond swiftly and effectively to security breaches. Also, preparedness is key to minimizing the impact of security incidents.
9. Regular Training and Knowledge Sharing
Beyond technology, the human element is critical in DevSecOps. Therefore, regular training sessions and knowledge-sharing initiatives are best practices to keep teams updated on the latest security trends, tools, and techniques. And this continuous learning culture ensures that teams remain well-equipped to address evolving security challenges.
10. Compliance as Code
Compliance requirements are integrated into the development process through the concept of “Compliance as Code.” This approach ensures that regulatory and compliance measures are embedded within the codebase, reducing the burden of compliance checks during later stages of development.
What are the components of DevSecOps?
The components of DevSecOps include people, processes, and technology. Thus, it involves a cultural shift, changes in development and deployment processes, and the implementation of security technologies and practices throughout the software development lifecycle.
What are common DevSecOps tools for software development?
Common DevSecOps tools include version control systems (e.g., Git), continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) tools (e.g., Jenkins), containerization tools (e.g., Docker), security scanning tools (e.g., SonarQube, OWASP ZAP), and monitoring tools (e.g., Prometheus).
What is DevSecOps in agile development?
In agile development, DevSecOps aligns seamlessly with the principles of iterative and collaborative development. So it ensures that security is not a bottleneck in the agile workflow, allowing for the continuous delivery of secure and high-quality software.
What are the challenges of implementing DevSecOps?
Challenges of implementing DevSecOps include cultural resistance to change, the need for skills development, integration complexities with existing processes, and the potential for increased upfront costs. In order to overcome these challenges it is important a commitment to cultural transformation, continuous learning, and strategic planning.
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Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly complex, and it is no secret by now that the number of cyber threats companies face on a daily basis has increased dramatically as a result of the pandemic.
All in all, IT teams and their security experts are pulling extremely long hours to come up with better and more efficient ways of protecting their digital operations and data. As a consequence, that is accelerating digital transformation in the area.
According to IDG, most CIOs consider cybersecurity a top priority, with 65% of companies planning to increase their security budget this year. This increase in demand involves hiring extra staff to tackle cyber threats – a push that will surely accentuate the already severe drought of cybersecurity talent.
But all of this effort
will not translate into long-lasting changes unless organisations institute a
security-aware culture and take a more strategic and proactive approach to cyber
protection. And that must necessarily start from the top.
Accountability
Nobody would be too
surprised if a CEO was ousted after a major financial fiasco. Why would it be
any different with cyber incidents?
A Centrify study from 2019 revealed that almost 40% of UK businesses had dismissed personnel for security-related incidents. You can bet not many of those employees were part of their company’s executive team.
Traditionally, security
breaches have been considered a responsibility of technical teams and IT
leaders, who often end up tracing the incident to a reckless employee who accessed
sensitive information while sipping on a cup of coffee at a local café. Sure, human
error and shadow IT are behind most cyber attacks, but, like with all systemic
problems, a real cultural shift requires everyone’s involvement.
The truth is that technology is too integral to today’s businesses for companies to afford to have leadership that is not directly or at least ultimately responsible for it. Accountability not only ensures better performance; it drives innovation and promotes continuous improvement.
When an executive’s reputation and livelihood are at stake, they are more likely to push for deeper, company-wide initiatives to address potential cyber threats. They will, therefore, invest more resources in protection and become cybersecurity ambassadors within the organisation, setting into motion a series of changes spanning areas from HR to external contractors and business partners.
But to be accountable,
business leaders first need to be knowledgeable.
Executive cybersecurity expertise
Recommending that executives be security-savvy is not to say that CEOs and other members of the board need to have deep technical knowledge of cybersecurity infrastructure and best practices, but they at least must be able to make informed decisions and factor cybersecurity into every key move they make.
One way to achieve such
a boardroom environment is to hire executives with an IT background – a trend
that is quickly gaining traction among the world’s top companies thanks to the
inherent benefits that a strong technical foundation brings to business
processes.
Another is to involve CIOs in the strategic decision-making process. IT leaders have acquired a bigger role since the start of the pandemic, growing closer to CEOs and becoming even more pivotal to business continuity than they were before. Companies should keep moving in this direction.
Newer IT-focused executive positions can also be created. Unfortunately, the figure of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) remains a rather rare occurrence in the c-suite. Although many companies have dedicated IT leaders in charge of cybersecurity, these are often confined to the IT department and do not get enough executive powers and visibility. Elevating CIOs within the organisation would certainly improve cybersecurity.
But not all solutions
involve prioritizing executives with a technical background. Training is always
an option. CEOs and their peers can learn to assess cyber threats and keep their
company’s cyber resilience in mind when making business decisions. CIOs and
their team have a key role to play in this training process, sharing their
experience and actionable insights while delivering periodic security audits to
inform the executive board.
Information security only keeps gaining importance. Here are 10 of the best cybersecurity experts in the Netherlands to follow on LinkedIn and Twitter.
Certainly, information security only keeps gaining importance as more and more business-critical processes move to the cloud and hackers get more sophisticated. For this reason, you should stay up-to-date with best practices, top threats and emerging trends. That is why we at Mindquest suggest you 10 of the best cybersecurity experts in the Netherlands to follow on LinkedIn and Twitter.
10 of the Best Cybersecurity Experts in the Netherlands to Follow Online
Cybersecurity has become crucial in recent times, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. As more and more companies had to implement their own virtual work environment, the need for cybersecurity experts grew exponentially. At Mindquest, as IT talents experts, we know the importance of getting the right contact to stay up-to-date and always match the top candidate for the best IT positions.
Therefore, take note of the 10 best Cybersecurity experts in Netherland to follow online.
Also, Sanne has recently joined Mandiant, now a part of Google Cloud, as a Senior Analyst. In this role, Sanne brings her expertise in cybersecurity to the forefront, contributing to Mandiant’s mission of providing cutting-edge security solutions.
Astrid is currently serving as the Corporate Social Responsibility Officer at ESET Nederland. In this role, she focuses on measuring the impact of the organization’s activities on society and the environment, promoting transparency and ethical behavior to contribute to sustainable development.
Floor is a senior privacy advisor at data protection services Privacy Company He also specialises in high-impact projects combining technological and organisational solutions.
Joost is a tech editor at Dutch news organisation NOS. He writes about security and privacy issues and also reports on the country’s latest cybersecurity news.
Marjolijn is deputy director at ECP, a public-private platform for the development of the information society. She is also the winner of Women in Cyber Security (WiCS)’s 2016 Woman of the Year Award.
So, Lodewijk is a senior public prosecutor at the Dutch Public Prosecution Service specialising in combating cybercrime. He is also part of the supervisory board at the DIVD.
Then, Anna is a privacy law expert at firm Allen & Overy, where she focuses on European Union regulations around ICT & Telecom, data protection and cybersecurity.
Last but not least, Rickey works as Incident Responder at Responders.NU. Founded with the mission to elevate Incident Response to new heights, the company breaks away from traditional approaches to deliver unparalleled expertise and service.
It’s the perfect time to be a cybersecurity professional. Here are a few guidelines about cybersecurity careers to help you navigate the field.
When it comes to cybersecurity, one thing is certain: things only get more complex over time. Therefore, spurred by the global health crisis and the business world’s increasing reliance on IT systems, cybercrime is on the rise. At the same time, the industry is facing a rapidly widening talent gap that makes securing company networks and infrastructure doubly difficult. Moreover, the leading cybersecurity professional organization (ISC)² estimates that the global cybersecurity workforce needs to grow by 145% to meet the demand for skilled cybersec talent. Message received about cybersecurity careers: it’s the perfect time to be a cybersecurity professional
But it’s not always easy to identify the right career path in this ever-changing and all-encompassing area of IT. Here are a few guidelines to help you navigate the field.
Three levels of roles
All cybersecurity job titles fall within three levels or categories: entry-level, mid-level and advanced. Examples of jobs at the various jobs available depending on the level of experience include:
Entry-level: System Engineer, System Administrator, Network Engineer, Security Specialist
Advanced: Cybersecurity Manager, Cybersecurity Architect, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
Cybersecurity careers : How to get a job
Although the previous distinction seems obvious at first glance—most careers have the same three levels—it is important to note that these don’t necessarily imply a linear progression, especially when looking to access mid-level cybersecurity roles.
That is due to the fact that a large proportion of security experts started out as experienced IT professionals with deep technical expertise, only moving into cybersecurity after mastering the ins and outs of networking, cloud and other core areas related to the security practice.
While accessing the cybersecurity industry through an entry-level role is possible and quite common—companies like to hire recent tech graduates who can quickly learn the basics and adapt to their particular workplace culture—most cybersec professionals are more on the senior side.
According to (ISC)², the average cybersec pro has worked for 9 years in IT roles, having spent 5 of those working on cybersecurity-related projects.
Top skills for cybersec pros
Since cybersecurity has many specialisation fields, there is not a unique set of skills that applies to all positions. Those interested in more technical tracks will have to gain full proficiency of the protocols, environments, devices and applications that are important for their specific niche.
Some of these technologies include:
Operating systems & databases (Windows, Unix, Linux, SQL…)
Once that is covered, security pros tend to go onto focus on a particular field or family of technologies, including:
Cisco and Microsoft
Cloud computing
Wireless
Database modelling
Cryptography
In addition, managerial roles will require the ability to plan and conduct training, write technical specifications, evaluate risk and the compliance with legal regulations.
Soft-skills are also critical for a successful career in cybersecurity. Team building and collaboration, a curious mind with a passion for solving puzzles, the business acumen to navigate corporate environments. All of these
Cybersecurity careers: certify yourself
Finally, and as it is often the case with technical careers, certifications are absolutely vital. There are several world-renowned organisations and companies offering certifications based on the area of focus:
CompTIA
EC Council
(ISC)²
ISACA
Cisco Systems
Microsoft
Besides validating your expertise within the industry and justifying, for instance, a career change into cybersecurity, certifications will often allow you to earn more money.
According to (ISC)² estimates, the average salary for cybersecurity experts holding a security certification is €60,000, way more than that of those who don’t —about €7,000 on average.
A surprising number of things can happen in a minute. Especially when it comes to cyber threats and their consequences. Quick overview. The state of cybersecurity in 2020
A surprising number of things can happen in a minute, especially when it comes to cyber threats and their consequences. Quick overview. The state of cybersecurity in 2020
Firstly, every 60 seconds, 375 attacks are unleashed upon the global community, costing the world economy $2.9 million. In other words, every single computer with an internet connection is targeted by malicious agents about 1.5 times per minute. A whooping 16,172 records are compromised.[1] Certainly not a promising picture if you are a business leader or oversee a company’s cybersecurity for a living.
As we celebrate cybersecurity awareness month to promote greater security and cyber hygiene, we would do well to keep in mind that every day should be cybersecurity awareness month. Therefore, we can all benefit from a deeper understanding of today’s most common threats and what we can do to protect our business systems from them.
Cybersecurity in 2020: the impact of the pandemic
The already complex world of enterprise security got further intricate with the advent of COVID-19. Also, the sudden shift to remote work has pushed company networks to the limit, opening a myriad of new potential points of entry for attackers to exploit. Additionally, the ensuing fear and confusion have given more leverage to attackers looking to deceive individual employees as a means to gain company-wide access. As they say: you are as strong as your weakest link. And hackers love that.
Social engineering, the act of tricking someone by using their natural tendencies and emotional reactions, has acquired a whole new dimension of sophistication and finesse. Phishing emails disguised as governmental safety announcements, fake HR memos encouraging you to get acquainted with the office’s new cafeteria policy. And that is just the start two per cent of all COVID-related websites created in recent months contain malicious code. A seemingly small number until you realise there are billions of COVID-19 pages out there.[2]
Remote work is here to stay, and so are the advanced techniques that cybercriminals use. In fact, they will only get more refined in the months to come.
A growing variety of cyber threats – Cybersecurity in 2020
In addition to the rising complexity of attacks, the sheer variety of techniques hackers use is a top concern for companies and cybersec professionals who are struggling to catch up with an ever-growing catalogue of threats. New forms of mobile malware alone, for instance, have grown 12% compared to last year. PowerShell-based malware, which leverages the Microsoft task automation and configuration management framework to carry out attacks without leaving any traces, grew by 1,902% over the same time period.[3]
Cloud has become the backbone of the modern enterprise, and hackers are targeting it accordingly. The rise in attacks is being particularly felt in those industries which depend the most on the cloud for productivity. For example, threats aimed at the transportation and logistics sector increased by 1,350% in the first quarter of the year. Education experienced a 1,114% rise in attacks, with governmental organisations, manufacturing and financial services following behind.[4]
Most attacks are opportunistic in nature and involve the “spraying” of cloud accounts with stolen access credentials. The majority of access attempts came from either China, Iran or Russia. [5]
Ransomware-as-a-service
While phishing and trojans are still behind most cyber attacks, ransomware continues to surge and is perhaps the most feared malware of them all. Its capacity to cripple an entire company’s operations in a matter of minutes, together with how difficult it can be to prevent these attacks in the first place, surely keeps many security specialists and IT managers awake at night. Also, threat actors are becoming increasingly sophisticated.
What started as attacks
by individual hackers or small rogue groups has now evolved into full-fledged
criminal organisations that operate under a ransomware-as-a-service approach.
Some even have “customer service” helplines to guide victims through the
process of paying the ransom.
These hacker groups have greatly benefited from COVID-19, taking advantage of the increase in cloud usage and telework. Half of the world’s organisations were hit by ransomware last year, with most successful ransomware attacks involving public cloud data. Data was successfully encrypted in 73% of attacks.[6]
Additionally, attackers
are finding more and more weaknesses to exploit as remote workers and IT
engineers increasingly use Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) to access internal
resources. The higher use of personal devices has also complicated the problem
of shadow IT, multiplying the potential points of access and making it more
challenging for security professionals to safeguard company networks.
