I feel like cybersecurity is a sham at a lot of companies. They’ll say they care but in reality don’t. Would anyone be able to share their personal experience?

The Illusion of Commitment: A Deep Dive into Cybersecurity Culture

In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity is often touted as a top priority for organizations, yet many professionals in the field are left questioning the authenticity of that commitment. After nearly a decade of experience in Information Technology across several firms—each outside the Fortune 500 sphere—I’ve encountered a consistent pattern: when it comes to prioritizing security, many companies merely play lip service.

It’s disheartening to see how frequently organizations claim to value cybersecurity, only to reveal that their actions tell a different story. Take my current position, for instance. While I am technically employed as a cybersecurity professional, it often feels as though my role is more about checking a box for compliance or insurance purposes than truly enhancing the organization’s security posture. The reality is stark; I report to an IT director who lacks traditional security expertise, and yet this individual makes the significant decisions impacting the security framework of our company.

Despite facing an unchallenging workload and enjoying the perks of remote work—allowing me ample time for personal tasks—I find myself seeking proactive ways to bolster our security measures. I’ve even offered to take on additional responsibilities in hopes of fostering a more secure environment. Unfortunately, my initiatives have largely been met with indifference.

This situation raises an intriguing question: Is this a common experience among IT professionals, particularly those focused on cybersecurity? Are we all navigating similar waters where our roles are positioned more as a safeguard against liabilities rather than as genuine efforts to protect our organizations from threats?

I invite you to share your experiences or thoughts on this matter. Have you found yourself in a similar situation, or do you see a genuine commitment to cybersecurity in your organization? Let’s explore this critical issue together and uncover whether the reality of cybersecurity is as settled as it should be.