Who is responsible for my Cyber policy?
A common misconception in organizations is that cybersecurity is simply part of IT. Nothing could be further from the truth. Cybersecurity requires a separate, strategic approach that is closely linked to business operations and risk management, not just to IT systems. The question “Who is responsible?” is therefore becoming increasingly complex, especially in a world where most organizations are moving their systems, data and processes to the cloud. But moving everything to the cloud doesn't absolve you of responsibility. It remains essential that your organization remains in control of security and risks.
IT versus Cybersecurity: 2 different worlds
Although IT and cybersecurity often go hand in hand, they are fundamentally different in their focus. IT is concerned with setting up and managing systems, network connections, and software, while cybersecurity is specifically about protecting data, systems, and networks against threats and attacks. While IT is usually reactive — think of solving disruptions or restoring systems — cybersecurity is proactive: it's about preventing incidents and managing risks.
That is why it is very important to separate your cyber policy from IT and give cybersecurity a strategic role within the organization. Separating these two responsibilities ensures that you are not only busy putting out fires, but that you also structurally manage your digital risks.
Shared responsibility in the cloud
Many companies move their data and processes to the cloud, assuming that the responsibility for security lies entirely with the cloud provider. This is a dangerous assumption. Cybersecurity in the cloud is a shared responsibility between the organization and the cloud provider. The provider can manage the infrastructure, but the security of data, access rights and applications within that cloud environment is still a task for your own organization. This means that your organization must be actively involved in managing those environments to ensure that the correct security measures are in place.
NIS2: Joint and several liability and involvement of the business
With the arrival of NIS2, the rules surrounding cybersecurity are being tightened, especially for companies that fall under this directive. One of the most striking aspects of NIS2 is the emphasis on joint and several liability of management. This means that an organization's board of directors can be held personally responsible for failure to adhere to security measures or for negligence in cyber risk management. This requires active involvement of management and the business in the cybersecurity policy. Cybersecurity is therefore no longer an 'IT problem', but a business risk that must be on the strategic agenda of management.
Risk management versus Incident management
An effective cyber policy is not a matter of reacting to incidents afterwards, but of proactively managing risks. At its core, cybersecurity is risk management: identifying potential threats, assessing their impact, and taking measures to reduce risks before incidents occur. This contrasts with traditional IT incident management, which often focuses on restoring systems and processes after a problem occurs.
By including cybersecurity in your risk management strategy, you can protect the business against potential losses, reputational damage and disruption of business processes. This makes it a business-critical process that goes beyond just technical solutions.
The role of Route443
At ROUTE443 we help you to properly integrate cybersecurity into your business operations. We guide you in separating IT and cybersecurity, drawing up a clear risk management policy, and fulfilling the shared responsibilities when working in the cloud. In addition, we help you meet the strict requirements of NIS2, so that your organization not only meets legal standards, but is also better protected against cyber threats.
Conclusion
Responsibility for cybersecurity does not lie solely with IT or your cloud provider. It is a shared, strategic responsibility in which the business and management must be actively involved. Separating IT and cybersecurity, combined with a focus on risk management, ensures a proactive approach that protects your organization and makes it compliant with regulations such as NIS2.
Route443 services
DIGITAL DEFENSE REVIEW
In an age where digital threats are constantly evolving, it is essential to thoroughly understand and secure your digital landscape. A Digital Defense Review is an indispensable instrument in this regard. As your dedicated cybersecurity services provider, we want to highlight why a Digital Defense Review is critical and how it adds significant value to you, our customer.
CYBER Projects
In the world of cybersecurity, implementation of strategies and advice is crucial. Our Projects department forms the backbone of this implementation, in close collaboration with our Strategy department.
SOC++
At Route443 we understand that effective cybersecurity goes beyond detection and response. Our SOC++ service offers a comprehensive, proactive approach that looks beyond traditional Security Operations Centers (SOC). One of our main specializations is identity security, because we know that 90% of cyber attacks start with the compromise of an identity.
Cyber CONSULTANCY
Our Consultancy Department is the place where the best-trained security specialists at all levels and knowledge areas come together to support, advise and assist our customers with internal security projects.
CYBER STRATEGY
In the rapidly evolving world of cybersecurity, Route443's strategy department plays a crucial role. This department acts as the beating heart that continuously keeps a finger on the pulse of the latest developments in the cyber world.
CISO AS A SERVICE
In the current digital landscape, cybersecurity is an absolute priority. But not every organization has the resources to hire a full-time Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). This is where CISO as a Service comes into play.
CYBER EXPERIENCE CENTER
In a world where digital threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, it is essential that organizations invest not only in technology, but also in the awareness and development of their employees. Route443 is responding to this with the development of a Cyber Experience Center, an innovative hub where cybersecurity expertise, research and education come together.
Cyber Academy
In the rapidly changing world of cybersecurity, it is essential that professionals have up-to-date knowledge and skills. The Route443 Academy offers an innovative approach to employee training, where learning and working go hand in hand.