The Illusion of Cybersecurity: A Personal Perspective

In today’s digital landscape, the importance of robust cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated. However, based on my ten-year journey in IT across various organizations (all outside the Fortune 500), I’ve come to a troubling realization: many companies claim to prioritize cybersecurity, yet their actions often suggest otherwise. I’m reaching out to the community to share insights and experiences related to this disconnect.

Throughout my career, I’ve encountered numerous instances that highlight a lack of genuine commitment to security protocols. Currently, I find myself in a role where I feel more like a checkbox on an insurance form than an integral component of the company’s security strategy. My supervisor, an IT director lacking traditional security expertise, has the final say, and it’s evident that security is not a top priority in our operations.

While my workload is manageable and my compensation is considerably generous for the tasks at hand, I often grapple with the feeling that I’m not contributing meaningfully to our organization’s security framework. Despite my efforts to propose proactive measures aimed at reinforcing our security posture, my suggestions have largely been met with indifference.

Interestingly, while part of me feels inclined to take advantage of this relaxed environment—working from home and managing personal tasks—I can’t shake the nagging desire to see real change in our cybersecurity approach. This contrast raises important questions: Is this sentiment widespread among professionals in the field? Are we witnessing a pervasive trend where companies view cybersecurity as a mere formality rather than an essential part of their strategy?

I invite you to share your experiences and thoughts on this topic. Have you experienced similar situations in your workplace? How do you perceive the genuine commitment of organizations toward cybersecurity? Let’s engage in a dialogue about the realities of our profession and explore how we can advocate for more meaningful security initiatives in our workplaces.