The first commercial computer, introduced by Lyons Electronic Office, was the start of a revolution in simplifying routine tasks. In recent years, our dependence on modern IT systems has, to a greater extent, also demonstrated how vulnerable society is if things go wrong.
Digital journey
Our digital journey has in seven fast decades created an everyday life where we are influenced and dependent on computer technology. All computers are now interwoven and connected to various networks at all times. Our phones now have more power than we could dream of on a work machine some years back. Even the clock, the oven, the washing machine, the fridge, the car and other smart devices we use for everyday tasks are connected to networks. They work together and make us dependent on things to work. A few seconds of waiting, and we experience stress and small everyday crises.
The rapid digitization has created great room for real crises. Crises that easily put your and my job at risk. Over 90% of executives are not prepared for how to handle a cyber attack and are unable to fully understand cyber security reports. 40% of executives believe they are not responsible for the consequences of a cyber-attack.
Antivirus is not enough
When everything is interconnected and we expect all systems to respond and interact at all times, it is crucial that those with competence help the leaders who in turn lack cyber security competence. While most people seem to agree that one must invest and modernize IT in order to be competitive, information security does not seem the same. Here it seems that most people think that having antivirus and firewall means security. It's a start, but it's not enough. A Symantec leader said a few years ago that antivirus is dead.
Profitability and or our competitiveness depends on the efficiency of an organization's processes and routines. IT should provide managers with the tools needed to optimize critical business processes, providing better profits over time and greater access to information.
At Pedab we have a team of experts who work with business risks every day. We see that there is a lack of focus on addressing the potential of cyber threats in our daily digital dealings with others. There must be a skill boost in areas such as cyber threats, cyber risk and business risk. Please contact us to learn more.