Data and IT security is a constant worry for carriers, especially as more and more data comes online. The natural, and understandable, reaction is to build strong, multi-layered defenses, to wall up as much as possible to keep the bad guys—on the inside as well as outside—at bay.
There's nothing wrong with vigilance, but at least one financial services security leader also advises against taking a bunker mentality. Instead of building massive walls, perhaps more IT leaders should strive to move in the other direction, toward more openness and collaboration in IT security efforts, says John Meakin, global head of security solutions and architecture at Deutsche Bank, in
Meakin makes the following recommendations:
Work closely with the business: All too often, I have seen examples of where business leaders brush off data security to the IT department—“It's your problem, handle it” is often accompanied by “but don’t expect additional budget.” Meakin points out that “information security is no longer an IT support issue; it’s a strategic business responsibility.” That’s why “it’s critical to me to develop strong working relationships with business leaders in other functions—operations, R&D, finance, legal, marketing.”
Encourage a learning environment: “Security leaders need every employee to be part of the solution,” writes Meakin. They need to champion a corporate culture in which security is “built into how work gets done.” To achieve such a one-for-all environment, employees need to be able to learn from each other and share their experiences. At Deutsche Bank, open and honest debates over social media channels are encouraged as a way to arrive at sensible and workable security practices. “One of the best sources of self-service in use of key security mechanisms that I have seen is the online wiki-style social network that we use at Deutsche Bank,” he relates. “Have a problem with that two-factor VPN sign-on? Need a software-token on your iPhone? Go to the social network and get hints, tips and real solutions through the advice of real users like you.”
Network with your peers: User groups and professional associations provide valuable opportunities to discuss best practices for security. “The bad guys are certainly teaming up and sharing best practices,” Meakin points out. “Why aren’t we?” He observes that his best and most timely intelligence on the latest sophisticated targeted attacks—before they actually hit—comes from fellow security leaders at other similar businesses.
Data and IT security can be automated to some degree, but the most effective practices rely on the engagement of everyone in the organization.
Joe McKendrick is an author, consultant, blogger and frequent INN contributor specializing in information technology.
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