How vCISO Services Support Small Business Cybersecurity

Securing SMEs: Embracing Virtual CISO Services

Small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) face an array of different obstacles throughout the growth and development of a business. As artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity regulations continue to evolve, companies must remain current with the latest information security protocols and practices – especially companies that collect personally identifiable information data from their customers, where the burden and liability of protecting that data rests solely on behalf of the provider.

Small & Medium-Sized Enterprises: The State of Cyberattacks

Contrary to popular belief, large corporations are not the sole target of cyberattacks. In reality, small businesses are being attacked at an alarming rate due to their perception of cybersecurity. Many of these small organizations believe they are too small to be a target and that it wouldn’t happen to them. Therefore, they do not have the resources or funds dedicated to cybersecurity. This leaves them behind compared to their larger enterprise counterparts and makes them an easier target for attackers.

As the threat landscape grows in volatility, awareness and understanding of the situation among most SME executives have remained unchanged. While many SMEs believe they are immune or too small to be a target, they often overlook the potential impact on their clients. A small business on its own may not be the ultimate target of the attacker but may have a larger or higher profile vendor that may be the goal. A threat actor will likely try and compromise the SME to access that organization’s client. This is one of the biggest reasons why this viewpoint must change.

Bridging the Gap: Why Organizations Need a Chief Information Security Officer

There are a multitude of reasons as to why an organization may lack proper information security procedures and guidelines. Reasons include cost considerations, lack of information, misinformed risk assessments, or limited security tool access. SMEs may have an information technology (IT) professional, c-level, or similar individual responsible for typical Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) duties. This individual may not have the time, skillset, or training to resolve cybersecurity issues as they arise. This is seen as a reactive rather than a proactive approach to cybersecurity.

Larger organizations may have a dedicated CISO on staff. Although this may be a significant step in the right direction, it does not give the organization any fallback if that individual becomes sick or incapacitated. That organization is also limited to that sole person’s knowledge and skillset. This can lead to gaps in a company’s defense.

3 Benefits of Hiring a Virtual Chief Information Security Officer

Plugging this pain point with a new full-time employee is not as effective as utilizing a consulting service like Wolf & Company, P.C. who is:

1. Up to date with the threat landscape and newest technologies.
2. Staffed with experienced consultants who know many verticals and industries.
3. Far more cost-effective than a full-time employee.

Threats to a business are becoming more sophisticated and dangerous; as they do, it is pivotal that companies take the necessary steps to protect the information of the business, employees, and clients.

What is a vCISO?

A virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) is a cybersecurity practitioner who provides the same level of expertise as a full-time CISO but on a remote, on-demand basis. They offer a flexible and cost-effective solution for organizations, particularly those that don’t need a full-time CISO due to size or budget constraints.

Utilizing a vCISO allows the individual currently holding the responsibilities of a CISO to focus on their primary role and responsibilities. It also ensures the organization is protected by someone qualified to tackle a myriad of issues at a fraction of the cost.

How Wolf Supports Organizations With vCISO Services

Wolf’s vCISO services provide organizations with clarity and peace of mind at a significantly lower price point than building an internal team. It is critical that the individual responsible for your business’s information and cybersecurity has a holistic understanding of the industry and possesses the technical skillset to solve complex issues.

While larger companies often set security standards in an industry, SMEs face unique challenges. These challenges should lead an executive to creative solutions like hiring a third-party vCISO to mitigate cyber risks. A vCISO can aid in the well-rounded system construction of a business’ IT defense structure. Regardless of the current regulations, having a strong information system security strategy is becoming increasingly essential.

If your organization is ready to advance its cybersecurity efforts, Wolf’s vCISO team is here to help. Reach out today to get started.