How CISOs Can Secure Board Communication

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In a world where cybercrime is rising board members who are mission-driven face significant challenges in accomplishing their objectives. Effective communication and strong relationships between board members are critical to ensuring the long-term success and longevity of an organization.

The increased focus on cybersecurity and the growing regulatory requirements put an increased burden on board secretaries general counsels and chief information security officers (CISOs) to enhance the communications of board members. Sadly, despite their best efforts many governance professionals struggle to keep board communications secure and organized. This is why it’s not uncommon for sensitive internal governance communications to be delivered through insecure communication channels -for example, personal email — which puts companies at risk of data breaches and regulatory penalties.

It is essential that CISOs implement solutions for board management that allow for private and group communication, and collaboration. This involves implementing a portal for boards that is user-friendly and mobile-friendly. It is also necessary to utilize video conference tools that enable secure and reliable virtual meetings. Instant messaging platforms and document collaboration tools are important in creating efficient and productive interactions between board members.

In addition, CISOs should present their reports to the board in a manner that is business-like and terms to ensure that they convey the importance of cybersecurity issues to the bottom line of the business. For instance, instead of declaring that there is a high likelihood of a cyber-attack, say that it could cost the company $X. This helps put the issue in a context and facilitates a discussion about the best way to proceed.