How Do IT Policy Changes Improve An Organization's Security Posture?
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How Do IT Policy Changes Improve An Organization's Security Posture?
To understand the impact of specific IT policy changes on organizational security, we asked IT professionals for their expert insights. From adopting a zero-trust policy to requiring multi-factor authentication, here are the top five ways these leaders have enhanced their security posture.
- Adopt a Zero-Trust Policy
- Implement Stringent Risk-Assessment Process
- Mandate VPN Use for Remote Access
- Introduce Gamified Security Training
- Require Multi-Factor Authentication
Adopt a Zero-Trust Policy
Moving over to a zero-trust policy has been transformative for our business. This proactive approach ensures continuous verification of users and devices, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access and potential breaches.
With the zero-trust policy, we’ve strengthened our security posture and provided a scalable and resilient framework to help us face and stay ahead of the evolving threat landscape and changing business needs.
This policy has been pivotal in protecting our organization and enabling future growth in an increasingly connected world.
Implement Stringent Risk-Assessment Process
From establishing clear policies to setting concrete data-security goals, we have applied a stringent risk-assessment process to enhance security within the organization. This has helped us identify potential security threats to data, applications, systems, and the network infrastructure. We have changed our security policies to determine the impacted systems and their likely consequences. This issue is nowadays addressed by applying a high-priority security patch.
Before deploying any patch, it is tested in a controlled setting to ensure it does not affect the system functionality or introduce new issues. The planned patch is applied during a scheduled maintenance window and further monitored for adverse effects and its effectiveness. Through diligent documentation and review processes, we have successfully improved our organization's security posture, minimizing unprecedented risks and maximizing operational efficiency.
Mandate VPN Use for Remote Access
In the past, our approach to VPN usage was largely optional, leaving our network vulnerable to potential threats from unsecured connections. However, by implementing a policy that mandates VPN use for all remote access and sensitive data handling, we've witnessed a dramatic shift in our overall security posture.
This policy change has not only reduced the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches but also instilled a stronger security mindset within our team. By making VPN usage a non-negotiable part of our workflow, we've reinforced the importance of data protection and created a more secure digital environment for our employees and our customers. The increased adoption rates have not only mitigated risks but also empowered our workforce to operate confidently from any location, knowing their online activities are shielded from prying eyes.
Introduce Gamified Security Training
One of the IT policy changes that inadvertently improved the security of our organization was a 'Gamified Security Training Program' for all staff. We replaced the traditional, largely enervating security training with a gamified approach whereby the employees were put in the saddle to play active roles in game-like situations simulating real-world security threats.
The twist is that we have created immersive experiences, augmented reality, whereby employees had to explore virtual environments—identify security risks and make real-time decisions. For example, it could be spotting a phishing attempt in a simulated email inbox or securing their virtual office spaces from unauthorized access.
The results have been pretty astounding. Security practices were much better retained, with higher levels of engagement among the employees since the training was more of an adventure compared to doing chores. This hands-on, interactive method was instrumental in not only making security training enjoyable but also internalizing and applying much better in the employees the security protocols. It is the very engaging and entertaining nature of the training that heralded increased awareness and better adherence to security practices, improving the overall security posture quantum leaps ahead—far from what conventional ways could do.
Require Multi-Factor Authentication
Our organization has significantly strengthened its security by requiring multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all users. This extra layer of protection prevents unauthorized access, even if passwords are stolen. MFA has also made our employees more aware of security risks, creating a stronger defense against cyberattacks.
