Should Every Company Hire a Cybersecurity Professional?

The decision to hire a full-time cybersecurity or infosec professional is not a one-size-fits-all scenario. Each company must weigh its specific needs and current security practices before making this investment. In this article, we will explore the factors to consider and provide guidance on when a dedicated cybersecurity professional is necessary.

Key Considerations for Hiring a Cybersecurity Professional

The first step in determining whether your company needs a cybersecurity professional is to evaluate your current digital footprint. Here's a simple decision tree to help you decide:

No: If your company does not have any connection to the internet, email, website, file exchange, or any other internet-dependent operations, a dedicated infosec professional can focus on ensuring safe computing practices. This includes setting up secure servers, protecting data, and monitoring for potential breaches. Yes: If your company involves internet-based operations, the cybersecurity professional must handle both the regular safe computing tasks and additional security measures. This individual will constantly be on high alert, considering the potential risks and vulnerabilities that come with internet-dependent operations.

The investment in a full-time cybersecurity professional is considerable. However, it is only worthwhile if there are already established security practices and tools in place. The key is to first evaluate the security aspects of any IT investments. For smaller companies, using third-party services with their own security measures can be effective, but the company must actively ensure these services are present and enforced. As the company grows, more robust security measures such as data storage, network building, and employee training should be considered.

When Full-Time Security Personnel Make Sense

At a certain point, when enough security products are implemented or when enough security policies and procedures are established, a full-time security professional can be justified. This professional can maintain these systems and allow others to focus on their core roles. Without formal security personnel, responsibilities often become spread out and possibly neglected. It is essential to create a dedicated team that can manage these products, policies, and procedures effectively.

Alternatives to a Full-Time Staff Member

Not every company can afford or needs a full-time cybersecurity professional. Instead, consider working with a local IT security company that can provide on-demand CISO or VIS service. This model, which I call 'co-managed IT security,' ensures that your company receives the necessary security support without the long-term commitment of a full-time staff member.

Additional Benefits of a Cybersecurity Professional

Beyond the immediate security needs, a dedicated cybersecurity professional supports the certification of protected documents and trains other members of the team for future security needs. This comprehensive approach not only enhances the security posture of the company but also ensures that the team is equipped to handle evolving threats.

In conclusion, the decision to hire a cybersecurity professional should be based on a thorough evaluation of your company's digital operations and security practices. Whether it's a full-time staff member or a co-managed service, the key is to ensure that your company is adequately protected against potential cyber threats.