What Boards Should Be Asking Their Teams About Cybersecurity

In today’s digital age, cybersecurity threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated and frequent. From phishing attacks to ransomware, cybercriminals are finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities in businesses’ networks and systems. This is why we continue to see cybersecurity stated as a top priority for businesses of all sizes, including those on the board level, but execution continues to be lacking.

As a board member, it’s essential to understand your organization’s cybersecurity posture and ensure that your team is taking the necessary steps to protect against cyber threats. But where do you start? What questions should you be asking your team to gain a comprehensive understanding of your organization’s cybersecurity strategy and readiness? In this article, Valor experts explore the top questions that boards should be asking their teams when it comes to cybersecurity.

What cybersecurity measures are currently in place?

The first question that boards should be asking their teams is what cybersecurity measures are currently in place. This includes everything from firewalls and antivirus software to employee training programs and incident response plans. By understanding what security measures are already in place, boards can identify any gaps or weaknesses that need to be addressed.

What are the biggest cybersecurity risks facing the organization?

The next question that boards should be asking is what the biggest cybersecurity risks facing the organization are. This could include threats such as phishing attacks, ransomware, or data breaches. Understanding the most significant risks facing the organization can help boards prioritize their cybersecurity efforts and ensure that resources are allocated effectively.

How often are security controls tested?

Another important question that boards should be asking their teams is how often security controls are tested. This includes everything from penetration testing and vulnerability scans to social engineering exercises. By regularly testing security controls, organizations can identify vulnerabilities and address them before they are exploited by cybercriminals.

What is our cyber incident response plan?

In the event of a cyber-attack, it’s essential to have a comprehensive incident response plan in place. Boards should be asking their teams what the incident response plan is, how it works, and who is responsible for executing it. A well-designed incident response plan can help minimize the impact of a cyber-attack and ensure that the organization can recover quickly.

How are employees trained on cybersecurity best practices?

Employees are often the weakest link in an organization’s cybersecurity defenses. Boards should be asking their teams how employees are trained on cybersecurity best practices, such as how to identify phishing emails and how to create strong passwords. By providing employees with regular training on cybersecurity best practices, organizations can reduce the risk of a successful cyber-attack.

How are third-party vendors assessed for cybersecurity risks?

Many organizations rely on third-party vendors for critical business functions. However, these vendors can also introduce cybersecurity risks. Boards should be asking their teams how third-party vendors are assessed for cybersecurity risks, such as how they are vetted before being hired and what security controls are put in place to protect against cyber threats.

What is our budget for cybersecurity?

Finally, boards should be asking their teams what the budget for cybersecurity is. Cybersecurity is a critical business function, and it’s essential to ensure that adequate resources are allocated to protect against cyber threats. By understanding the cybersecurity budget, boards can identify any areas where additional resources may be needed.

Ultimately, cybersecurity is a critical business function that should be a top priority for boards. By asking the right questions of their teams, boards can gain a comprehensive understanding of their organization’s cybersecurity strategy and readiness. This includes understanding what security measures are in place, identifying the biggest cybersecurity risks facing the organization, and ensuring that employees are trained on cybersecurity best practices. By prioritizing cybersecurity and allocating adequate resources, boards can help protect their organizations against cyber threats and ensure their long-term success.

Want to find out how you can get your organization aligned with cybersecurity best practices? Don’t worry, we’re here to help!

The team at Valor Cybersecurity is pleased to offer our Cybersecurity Readiness Assessment for $599. As a bonus for taking our assessment, we will provide you with recommended guidance for better protecting your business and a 30-minute consultation with our team of experts!