Understanding Tech Debt in the Context of Cybersecurity
Tech debt defined
One of the biggest challenges organizations face when it comes to cybersecurity is the presence of technical debt. “Tech debt” is a term used to describe the accumulation of outstanding technical development work that occurs when an organization chooses to prioritize short-term gains over required, long-term technology investments. This can result in an outdated and vulnerable technology infrastructure that is prone to cyberattacks.
Conversions about Systems
When it comes to cybersecurity, it is important to have conversations with the board about the current state of the systems that are being protected.
This includes discussing the impact of tech debt on the overall security posture of the organization. Tech debt can have a significant negative impact on an organization's ability to protect sensitive data and respond to cyber threats. It is, therefore, crucial that the board understands the risks associated with accumulated tech debt and the importance of investing in technology upgrades.
Think of tech debt as the plaque that builds inside our arteries. Over time, this plaque can cause serious health problems, such as heart attacks. Similarly, tech debt can cause serious problems for organizations such as data breaches and cyberattacks. Just like plaque, tech debt can slowly build up over time, making it difficult to see the full impact it is having on the organization. But when it reaches a critical level, it can cause serious harm.
Phil Venables, again, writes, “It can be a mistake to only invest in cybersecurity controls while neglecting broader technology upgrades and modernization, this would be like building on a foundation of sand. You have to manage this as a portfolio of risks. On a positive note, companies that have the best cyber defenses and track record also typically have the most modern IT platforms, the best agility, the best technology risk mitigation overall and deliver significant business or mission advantage from this.”
One of the key reasons why tech debt can pose a threat to cybersecurity is that it often results in outdated systems and applications. As technology evolves and new security threats emerge, it is important for organizations to keep their systems up-to-date and secure. However, when tech debt is present, organizations are constantly “behind the curve” and may be unable to make the necessary investments in technology upgrades. This leaves their systems vulnerable to cyberattacks and makes it more difficult for them to respond to security incidents.
One of the most important things that organizations can do to safeguard their systems is to prioritize technology investments. This means making the necessary investments in technology upgrades and replacing outdated systems with modern, secure alternatives. By doing so, organizations can improve their overall security posture and reduce their exposure to cyber threats.
Another important step that organizations can take to reduce tech debt is to engage in regular security assessments. These assessments can help organizations identify areas of tech debt that need to be addressed and prioritize the most important investments. They can also help organizations understand the potential risks associated with tech debt and the impact it may have on their overall security posture.
Asking the right Questions
When it comes to technical debt and its impact on enterprise risk and cybersecurity, the board of directors has a critical role to play. As the guardians of the organization, it is important for them to understand the current state of the systems being protected and to ask the right questions to ensure that the organization is effectively managing its technical debt. Here are some helpful tips for board members to ask questions that will help them better understand technical debt and its impact:
Start by asking about the current state of the systems
Before diving into the details of technical debt, the board should start by asking about the current state of the systems being protected. This includes asking about the age and version of software, the number of patches and upgrades required, and the overall state of the technology infrastructure.
Ask about the impact of technical debt on the organization
Technical debt can have a significant impact on the organization, including increased operational costs, reduced efficiency, and increased cybersecurity risks. The board should ask about the specific impact of technical debt on the organization and how it is being managed.
Ask about the organization's strategy for managing technical debt
A comprehensive strategy for managing technical debt is essential for reducing the risk of a cyberattack. The board should ask about the organization's strategy for managing technical debt and what measures are in place to prevent it from accumulating.
Ask about the risks of not addressing technical debt
Technical debt can have a serious impact on the organization if left unaddressed. The board should ask about the specific risks of not addressing technical debt and what measures the organization is taking to mitigate these risks.
Ask about the budget for addressing technical debt
Addressing technical debt requires a significant investment of time and resources. The board should ask about the budget for addressing technical debt and how it is being allocated to ensure that the organization is effectively managing this risk.
Ask about the role of the CISO
The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is responsible for developing and implementing the organization's cybersecurity strategy, including managing technical debt. The board should ask about the CISO's role in managing technical debt and how they are working with the CTO, CIO, and other parts of the technology organization to ensure that the systems are secure.
Ask about the security assessment process
Regular security assessments are an important part of managing technical debt and reducing the risk of a cyberattack. The board should ask about the security assessment process and what measures are in place to ensure that the assessments are effective.
Understanding the impact of technical debt on enterprise risk and cybersecurity is critical for the board of directors. By asking the right questions and engaging in open communication with the technology and security teams, the board can ensure that the organization is effectively managing its technical debt and reducing its risk of a cyberattack.