The Illusion of Cybersecurity: Insights from the Trenches

In recent years, the conversation around cybersecurity has intensified, yet many in the industry have started to feel skeptical about the genuine commitment of organizations to secure their digital environments. As someone who has spent a decade in IT across various companies, primarily outside of the Fortune 500 realm, I’ve encountered numerous situations that raise questions about the authenticity of corporate cybersecurity efforts.

What I’ve observed, particularly in my current role, is a common theme: security often feels like little more than a checkbox exercise intended primarily for insurance compliance, rather than a genuine priority. Despite my title, I often find myself under the leadership of an IT director whose background lacks traditional security expertise. This raises a crucial concern about the effectiveness of leadership in driving serious security initiatives.

While my workload is relatively light and I am compensated well for my contributions — which even affords me the flexibility to handle personal tasks while working from home — I can’t shake the feeling that there is more we could and should be doing. I have proactively suggested various measures to bolster our security posture, including taking on additional responsibilities, only to be met with indifference.

The dynamics of this environment prompt a thought-provoking question: is this a common experience for others in the field? Are we collectively striving to uphold standards and improve practices in organizations that don’t seem to reflect those values?

I invite fellow IT professionals and cybersecurity enthusiasts to share their stories. Have you encountered similar experiences in your workplaces? How have these situations influenced your view on corporate cybersecurity? Your insights could shed light on whether this is an isolated phenomenon or a widespread concern across the industry.