Enhancing Cybersecurity: Beyond Technology to People and Process

In the world of cybersecurity, it's easy to get caught up in the latest technology - firewalls, encryption, intrusion detection systems - and consider our work done. However, the NIST Framework reminds us that technology is just one of three critical pillars. To truly fortify our companies against cyber threats, we must adopt a holistic approach that includes technology, people, and processes.

While technology plays a crucial role, it's the human element - our employees - and the processes that govern their actions which often determine our cybersecurity's effectiveness. Despite advancements in tech, the Achilles' heel of many organizations remains the human factor: clicking on phishing emails, weak passwords, and the lack of multi-factor authentication (MFA) on critical accounts.

Today, I want to delve into a specific intersection of the people and process pillars: managing leavers. Every company deals with employee turnover, but the significance of a thorough and swift leavers process is frequently underestimated. Why is this process so critical for cybersecurity?

The Risk of Dormant Accounts

When an employee leaves a company, their account becomes a dormant gateway into the organisation's network and data. These accounts are often overlooked, left active far longer than necessary, posing a significant security risk. With the increasing volume of data breaches and information being sold on the dark web, cybercriminals do not discriminate between current and former employees. An entry point is an entry point, and a poorly managed leaver's account can be just that.

The Importance of a Robust Leavers Process

A robust leavers process ensures that as soon as an employee departs, their access to company systems is revoked promptly. However, it's not enough to set up a process and forget about it. The digital landscape and the tools we use are continually evolving, as are the tactics of cyber adversaries.

Today's Top Tip: Review Your Leavers Process

Given the stakes, my top tip for companies is to regularly review their leavers process. Ensure it is carried out correctly and swiftly every time an employee leaves. Audit this process periodically to check for compliance and effectiveness. Additionally, involve your HR and IT departments in creating a seamless workflow that addresses all cybersecurity concerns related to employee turnover.

In conclusion, while technology is an essential part of our cybersecurity defences, it cannot stand alone. People and processes play equally critical roles in protecting our organisations. By addressing these aspects with as much diligence and investment as we do technology, we enhance our overall cybersecurity posture.

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Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this blog are my own and do not reflect those of any organisation or employer.