In today's digital age, cybersecurity has become a critical aspect of every organization's operations. Cyber-attacks can lead to financial losses, loss of sensitive data, and even damage to reputation, making it essential to invest in cybersecurity. However, not all organizations have the resources to adequately protect themselves from these threats.

The cybersecurity poverty line has become the benchmark of acceptable cybersecurity for businesses. 

What is the cybersecurity poverty line? Why does it matter to your business? What can you do to protect yourself? 

What is the Cybersecurity Poverty Line?

The concept of a cybersecurity poverty line has emerged to describe the line between the organizations that have the means and resources to achieve and maintain strong security postures to protect data, and those that do not. 

The term "poverty line" typically refers to the minimum level of income necessary to maintain a basic standard of living. Similarly, the cybersecurity poverty line refers to the minimum level of investment required to maintain a basic level of cybersecurity.

Wendy Nather, head of advisory CISOs at Cisco, first coined the notion in 2011. In 2020, Chris Krebs added the concept of a “cyber 1%” in a talk at a Gartner conference. 

The cyber 1% are the most capable of defending against cyber threats, regardless of their industry. These companies have the resources, structure, and culture to maintain a resilient cybersecurity posture. 

Many small and medium-sized businesses fall below the cybersecurity poverty line, as they may lack the resources to invest in the latest cybersecurity tools or hire dedicated cybersecurity staff. These businesses may be more vulnerable to cyber-attacks and may not be able to recover from the damages.

It is worth noting that the cybersecurity poverty line varies depending on the organization's size, industry, and level of risk. A small retail business may have different cybersecurity needs than a large financial institution, and therefore, their respective cybersecurity poverty lines will differ.

Organizations that fall below the cybersecurity poverty line may consider outsourcing their cybersecurity needs to third-party providers or investing in cost-effective solutions. For example, implementing basic security measures such as regular software updates, employee security awareness training, and implementing multi-factor authentication can considerably improve an organization's cybersecurity posture.

Here Are Some Ways You Can Improve Your Organization’s Cybersecurity Posture

Improving an organization's cybersecurity posture involves a comprehensive approach that addresses various aspects of security. Here are some steps an organization can take to enhance its cybersecurity posture:

1. Develop a cybersecurity strategy: Create a formal cybersecurity strategy that aligns with the organization's goals and risk tolerance. This strategy should outline the objectives, priorities, and action plans for improving cybersecurity.
   
   
2. Establish security policies and procedures: Develop and implement robust security policies and procedures that cover areas such as password management, data classification, access controls, incident response, and employee security awareness training. Ensure employees are aware of and observe these policies.
   
   
3. Provide security awareness training: Educate employees on cybersecurity best practices, including recognizing phishing attempts, avoiding social engineering, and maintaining strong passwords. Regularly update training programs to address evolving threats.
   
   
4. Implement access controls and least privilege: Grant employees access privileges only as needed for their roles. Regularly review and update user access permissions to prevent unauthorized access.
   
   
5. Secure network infrastructure: Employ firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and intrusion prevention systems to monitor and protect network traffic. Regularly update and patch network devices and software to address security vulnerabilities.
   
   
6. Regularly update and patch systems: Implement a strong patch management process to keep operating systems, applications, and firmware up to date. This helps protect against known vulnerabilities that could be exploited.
   
   
7. Enable multifactor authentication (MFA): Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for accessing sensitive systems, data, M365, or Google accounts. This adds an extra layer of security beyond just passwords.
   
   
8. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing: Perform periodic assessments and penetration tests to identify weaknesses and vulnerabilities in your organization's infrastructure, applications, and systems. Address any findings immediately.
   
   
9. Establish an incident response plan: Develop an incident response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in case of a cybersecurity incident. This includes roles and responsibilities, communication protocols, detection, containment, eradication, and recovery procedures.
   
   
10. Perform Cybersecurity Tabletop Exercises: The goal of a cybersecurity tabletop exercise is to identify any vulnerabilities or weaknesses in an organization's cyber defenses and incident response plan and to evaluate the effectiveness of the organization's incident response team.
    
    
11. Regularly back up data: Implement a strong data backup and recovery plan to ensure critical data is regularly backed up and can be restored in case of data loss or ransomware attacks.
    
    
12. Engage in ongoing monitoring and threat hunting intelligence: Implement security monitoring tools and technologies to detect and respond to security incidents in real time. Stay updated on the latest threats and vulnerabilities through threat hunting intelligence sources.
    
    
13. Engage third-party security assessments: Consider engaging external security experts to conduct independent security assessments and audits to identify any blind spots or areas for improvement.
    
    
14. Conduct a risk assessment: Identify and assess potential vulnerabilities and threats to your organization's assets, systems, and data. This assessment helps prioritize security efforts and allocate resources effectively.
    
    
15. Foster a culture of cybersecurity: Promote a culture of cybersecurity awareness and accountability throughout the organization. Encourage employees to report security incidents and provide a safe environment for open dialogue about security concerns.

Improving an organization's cybersecurity posture is an ongoing process that requires continuous monitoring, assessment, and modification of evolving threats and technologies. Regularly review and update security measures to stay ahead of potential risks.

It’s a Combination of Technology, Processes, and People

By identifying your cybersecurity poverty line, you can take steps to improve your cybersecurity posture and help protect your business from cyber threats. Even organizations with limited resources should prioritize cybersecurity to avoid potentially devastating consequences.

In the end, a strong company culture of cybersecurity education and awareness, cybersecurity tools and technologies, and documented cybersecurity policies and procedures can help you establish a clear plan for cyber resilience.

Teknologize is a SOC 2 accredited, Professional Technology Services company with clients throughout the Pacific Northwest. We have offices located in:

• Tri-Cities, Washington 509.396.6640
• Yakima, Washington 509.396.6640
• Bend, Oregon 541.848.6072

Questions about your IT or Cybersecurity? Give us a call today!