Facing the future with business continuity and digital security

In 2023, the cost of cybercrime was $8 trillion and it's projected to grow to $10.5 trillion by 2025. This rapid increase highlights the urgency for organizations to protect themselves from digital threats. But the real question is: How can your organization defend itself while maintaining organizational continuity?

According to the Coalition's Cyber Threat Index 2024 report, Total Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) are expected to increase by 25 percent this year. That’s a considerable increase in identified security vulnerabilities in software and hardware products.?

If a crisis arises, would you feel confident that your organization is prepared to face what lies ahead? Would your operations continue with minimal disruption? Data protection and cybersecurity are critical but are only part of the equation.

IBM’s 2024 Data Breach Report

• 40% of data breaches involved data stored across multiple environments.?
• In 2024, the global average cost of a data breach reached over $4 million, a 10% rise from last year.
• One in three breaches involved shadow data, emphasizing challenges in tracking and protecting information.

What’s business continuity and how can it help?

Business continuity is more than just having a backup plan; it’s about making sure your organization can deliver products and services during unexpected disruptions. Whether facing cyberattacks, a fire, or even regulatory changes, having a plan of action allows your organization to function with minimal interruptions. This involves identifying, preventing, detecting, responding, recovering, and governing risks.

With risk, there is reward. By being pro-active instead of reactive, you’re not just preparing for the worst; you’re increasing your organization's ability to thrive, even when challenges are imminent. And there are benefits to having a business continuity plan.

Benefits of business continuity management systems:

• Enhance organizational resilience.
• Improve risk management processes.
• Assure a systematic response to crises.
• Increase trust among stakeholders.

Along with business continuity, protecting your organization's data is just as important. And that's where information security comes in. These two in tandem can protect your organization from threats of any kind.

What’s information security and how can it help?

When you build a strong information security framework, you defend and empower your organization. By protecting essential assets, mitigating risks, and promoting trust, you can embed security into your operations. With vigorous practices in place, you’ll continuously refine and strengthen your defenses—assuring resilience today and being ready for tomorrow.

Benefits of information security management systems: ?

• Protect sensitive information.
• Improve reputation and stakeholder confidence.
• Use a risk-based approach.
• Comply with regulatory compliance.
• Reduce internal breaches.
• Show a dedication to organization-wide commitment.

Implementing these frameworks can help you feel safe and secure, knowing your organization is protected. Because isn’t that the goal in this digital world? Cybersecurity attacks can be just as crucial as any natural disaster. When you’re prepared, you're setting yourself up for success and not scrambling, creating panic for employees.

Gartner Inc. projects that 45% of global organizations will experience a supply chain attack by 2025—three times higher than in 2021. So, how can you protect your organization? How can you move forward? In the era of the polycrisis, there are environmental, geopolitical, increasing digital risk, and economic challenges. What is the solution?

The Solution: ISO 22301 and ISO 27001

A comprehensive approach to digital security and organization continuity starts with implementing international standards like Business Continuity Management System (ISO 22301) and Information Security Management System (ISO/IEC 27001).

A Business Continuity Management System (BCMS) can help you prepare for, respond to, and recover from disruptions. It focuses on maintaining operations during crises, allowing your organization to continue to deliver products and services within acceptable timeframes.

An Information Security Management System (ISMS) focuses on securing information assets regarding cyber threats and data privacy. It assures that your organization is equipped to manage risks to sensitive data.

Adopting an ISMS and BCMS bolsters resilience against cyber threats and disruptions, creates customer trust, and reduces costs through combined risk management. Working together, they provide a robust framework for protection and form the foundation of digital trust.

Moving forward

There is no 'I' in 'team'. We have all heard that saying before. Business continuity is a team effort, with each person playing a crucial part in protecting an organization's critical operations during and after disruptions. From decision-makers to problem solvers, every person involved helps your organization navigate unexpected challenges and emerge better and stronger.

In today’s digital world, the combination of these standards can support your organization to build resilience, strengthen security, and gain the trust of your clients and stakeholders. By applying these standards, your organization can be better equipped to face disruptions and safeguard data.

Minimizing the impact of disruptive incidents and reducing their likelihood is key to defending your workers and your organization. Are you ready to build resilience and protect your organization from threats?

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