Is Cybersecurity Just a Box to Check? Insights from the Field
In my extensive career in IT—spanning nearly ten years and multiple organizations outside the Fortune 500 sphere—I’ve come to observe a troubling trend within the realm of cybersecurity in the corporate world. When I look around, it often feels as though many companies treat cybersecurity more like a box to check than a genuine priority. I’m sure many of you can relate, and I’d love to hear your personal experiences on this topic.
Despite the assurances from management that they value cybersecurity, the reality can paint a different picture. In my current role, for instance, I find myself serving more as a formality for compliance and insurance purposes than as an integral part of the security framework. My direct supervisor, the IT director, lacks the requisite security experience yet retains ultimate authority, which complicates efforts to advocate for real security enhancements.
Interestingly, my workload is light, and I am compensated generously for my position. The flexibility of working from home has allowed me to balance my job responsibilities alongside personal chores. However, amid this comfort, I still feel a strong desire to contribute more meaningfully to our organization’s security posture. I have proactively proposed initiatives aimed at bolstering our defenses, yet my efforts have largely gone unrecognized.
While part of me feels inclined to simply enjoy the pleasant situation, I can’t shake the urge to strive for improvement in cybersecurity practices. It raises a crucial question: Are companies genuinely committed to enhancing their security measures, or are we merely part of a checklist to appease insurers and regulatory bodies?
I invite you to share your thoughts or personal experiences related to this phenomenon. Have you encountered similar situations in your own work environments? Let’s explore whether this perception is more widespread than we think.
Share this content:
Thank you for sharing this insightful perspective. It’s unfortunately a common challenge in many organizations where cybersecurity is viewed more as a compliance requirement than a core business function. To help address this disconnect, it’s essential to advocate for a security-first culture by demonstrating how proactive security measures can directly benefit the organization’s resilience and reputation. Consider proposing metrics to quantify security improvements, such as reduced vulnerabilities or response times, which can help illustrate tangible benefits. Additionally, engaging leadership with educational sessions on current cybersecurity threats and best practices can foster greater awareness and commitment. If you find that your initiatives continue to be overlooked, documenting your efforts and their outcomes can also serve as compelling evidence of your contributions and the organization’s security gaps. Remember, pushing for a genuine security posture often requires persistent advocacy and strategic framing to align security initiatives with business goals.