The Most Impactful Sales Leadership In Cybersecurity To Watch Out

Sep, 2024 www.cioworldindia.com A Proac?ve Approach Exploring the Benefits of Business Con?nuity Planning in Cybersecurity The Most Impactful Sales Leadership in Cybersecurity to Watch Out A Major Fallout Story of the Sophis?cated Cyber A?ack on TfI Account Executive Prashant Nimbalkar – Cybersecurity Sales Prashant Nimbalkar A Cybersecurity Sales Veteran Ensuring Businesses Remain Digital Safeguarded

The Most Impactful Sales Leadership in Cybersecurity to Watch Out

Editor’s Note n the surface, sales leadership and cybersecurity O evolving along with its cybersecurity landscape, sales leadership is seen playing a pivotal role in driving innovation, growth, and securing clients as the digital world is getting increasingly complex. proactive risk management. He ensures that the companies he advises don’t merely react to threats but adopt all forward-thinking strategies devising them beforehand - strategies that shield those businesses against future challenges. In addition to being strong communicators, today’s top cybersecurity sales leaders like Prashant are agile learners. With the rapid pace of change in technology and the ever- growing variety of cyber threats, the ability to quickly adapt and leverage the latest solutions is critical. These leaders including Prashant continuously evolve their strategies, always staying one step ahead of adversaries. As cybersecurity continues to grow as a critical sector, leaders like Prashant will not only shape their companies but also influence how entire industries think about and approach security. might not look directly connected. Yet, if you look deeper, as the concurrent world keeps ever- It necessitates an ability to predict market trends, anticipate evolving cyber-threats, all the while communicating sophisticated security solutions in ways that business leaders can appreciate and comprehend. Future shapers of the Cybersecurity Currents In this space and time, the most impactful leaders might not just be those who only know how to sell—rather they are asked to be visionary strategists having an understanding of the nuances of cybersecurity threats and the solutions necessary to counter them at their disposal. Individuals like these also embrace a customer-first approach in order to combine tech expertise along with business acumen. Furthermore, the truly distinctive factor that sets Prashant apart is his focus on collaboration. Beyond just selling a product; the visionary is building partnerships that foster trust and long-term client relationships. In an industry built on securing data and digital infrastructures, trust is paramount, and the most impactful sales leaders like Prashant excels at creating environments where trust thrives—both within their teams and with clients. CioWorld India’s latest edition’s star - Prashant Nimbalkar, crowned as ‘The Most Impactful Sales Leadership in Cybersecurity to Watch Out,’ is shaping not just his teams but also the industry by advocating for

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Featuring Prashant Nimbalkar Digital Safeguarded A Cybersecurity Sales Veteran Ensuring Businesses Remain We maintain close requirements. communication with our “ clients to tailor our solutions to their speci?ic challenges and “ Account Executive Prashant Nimbalkar – Cybersecurity Sales

The Most Impac?ul Sales Leadership in Cybersecurity to Watch Out T transformed how we live, work, and interact, creating a hyper-connected reality. However, this rapid digitization has also introduced unprecedented risks and vulnerabilities. *Cloud Security Challenges: With the increasing adoption of cloud services, securing cloud environments is a top priority. Hybrid and multi-cloud security, identity and access management, and data protection in the cloud are all critical areas to address. rust, the bedrock of all human relationships, has taken on new dimensions in our increasingly interconnected world. The digital revolution has *IoT Security: The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices presents new attack vectors. “In 2024-25, we can expect more attention on securing these devices and networks, with a focus on standards and best practices.” In this new era of personal, professional, and business cybersecurity, the importance of robust digital protection cannot be overstated. To truly understand the critical nature of cybersecurity, one must turn to the experts. Prashant Nimbalkar, a leading authority in the field, offers unparalleled insights into the potential consequences of inadequate cyber defences and the imperative for comprehensive security solutions. *Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with data protection regulations is non-negotiable. Cybersecurity efforts will need to align with the evolving landscape of regulations like GDPR, CCPA, and emerging data protection laws worldwide. Prashant, a Google Cybersecurity certified Top Voice on LinkedIn, says that in today's interconnected digital world, cybersecurity remains a paramount concern for individuals and organizations alike. With each passing year, the threat landscape continues to evolve, presenting new challenges and opportunities for those tasked with protecting sensitive data and systems. “As we step into the future, it's crucial to stay ahead of the curve by understanding the latest trends in cybersecurity,” he adds. *Supply Chain Security: Recent high-profile supply chain attacks have highlighted the importance of securing the entire software development and delivery process. Supply chain security will be a key focus area for organizations. *Cybersecurity Skills Shortage: The shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals is an ongoing concern. Companies are investing in training and upskilling programs to bridge the gap. What are these latest trends?Here, Prashant lists and explains them: *Incident Response and Recovery: As the inevitability of breaches grows, incident response and recovery planning are critical. Organizations are refining their response plans and conducting regular drills to minimize the impact of incidents. *Zero Trust Architecture: Zero Trust has transitioned from a buzzword to a practical approach to cybersecurity. The fundamental principle is simple: trust nothing and verify everything. Currently, organizations are increasingly adopting Zero Trust architecture to secure their networks and applications, making it a cornerstone of their cybersecurity strategy. As we step into the “ future, it's crucial to stay *AI and Machine Learning for Threat Detection: Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are being harnessed to bolster threat detection capabilities. These technologies enable real-time analysis of vast datasets to identify and mitigate threats faster and more accurately than ever before. ahead of the curve by understanding the latest trends in cybersecurity. “ *Ransomware Resilience: The ransomware threat continues to evolve, with cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated. Organizations are focusing on enhancing their ransomware resilience with robust backup and recovery strategies, employee training, and proactive threat hunting.

The dynamic nature of continues to inspire me Thus, with over one-and-a-half-decade of track record in the dynamic cybersecurity landscape, Prashant has honed his skills as a strategic sales leader. His deep-rooted experience in forging business alliances, coupled with a keen understanding of sales and marketing dynamics, positions him as a driving force in industry growth. “ this ?ield, combined with every day. the opportunity to make a tangible impact on organizational security, Benchmarking Brilliance Currently spearheading new business development across the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) region, Prashant is instrumental in expanding market reach. His commitment to excellence is underscored by a Six Sigma Black Belt certification and a portfolio of online credentials, ensuring he remains at the vanguard of cybersecurity trends and best practices. “ *Security Awareness and Training: Employees remain a vulnerable entry point for cyberattacks. Continuous security awareness training is vital to create a culture of cybersecurity within organizations. To ensure that his organization remains adaptable and ahead of industry trends, providing innovative solutions to its clients, Prashant says it requires a commitment to ongoing education. “We encourage our team to pursue advanced certifications, attend industry conferences, and participate in webinars and workshops.” This not only keeps them informed about the latest threats and technologies but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement. “Understanding the unique needs of our clients is crucial,” insists Prashant, adding, “We maintain close communication with our clients to tailor our solutions to their specific challenges and requirements.” This client-centric approach ensures that Prashant and his team provide relevant and effective security strategies. Adopting agile methodologies allows them to quickly adapt to changes and implement new solutions efficiently. This flexibility is key to staying ahead in a rapidly changing industry. Implementing Six Sigma principles, Prashant states that they focus on identifying and eliminating potential vulnerabilities through rigorous risk management processes. “This structured approach enhances the reliability and effectiveness of our security measures.” Prashant adds that as the cyber threat landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest trends and best practices in cybersecurity is essential for professionals and businesses alike. Embracing these trends and implementing proactive security measures will help mitigate risks and ensure a more secure digital future, he says. Inception of the Inspiration Prashant’s journey in the cybersecurity industry began over 16 years ago, driven by a profound interest in technology and a desire to tackle the evolving challenges of the digital age. Starting as a consultant, he was fascinated by the intricacies of securing networks and protecting sensitive data. This initial role allowed him to gain a deep understanding of the technical aspects of cybersecurity and the constant threats that organizations face. Throughout his journey, the constant evolution of cyber threats and the critical importance of protecting digital assets have kept Prashant motivated. “The dynamic nature of this field, combined with the opportunity to make a tangible impact on organizational security, continues to inspire me every day,” he says. His diverse experience, from consulting to operations and sales, has equipped him with a holistic understanding of cybersecurity, enabling him to drive effective strategies and foster strong client relationships. Digital Defender of the New Cyber Era Prashant's leadership philosophy in cybersecurity sales is grounded in fostering a collaborative, learning-centric, and accountable environment. “I’m steeped in a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and accountability,” says Prashant. He ardently believes that in today's rapidly evolving world, continuous learning has become the key to unlocking limitless opportunities for both personal and professional growth. As technology advances, industries change, and new challenges emerge, individuals and

businesses must adapt to stay competitive. Embracing learning and acquiring relevant certifications has become essential for anyone looking to thrive in the dynamic landscape of today's global knowledge economy. “That is how, today, with a robust foundation built over years of industry experience and a Six Sigma certification, I can employ a strategic, data-driven approach to drive performance and innovation,” he adds. Central to his leadership style is the belief in the power of teamwork and open communication. “I believe in it completely,” he emphasizes. By creating an inclusive atmosphere where team members feel valued and empowered, Prashant cultivates a high-performing culture. Regular interactions, brainstorming sessions, and accessible leadership ensure that everyone is aligned towards shared objectives. Today, with a Six Sigma performance and “ robust foundation certi?ication, I can innovation. built over years of employ a strategic, industry data-driven Recognizing the dynamic nature of cybersecurity, Prashant prioritizes continuous learning and development. “By investing in the professional growth of my team, we ensure that our skills and knowledge remain cutting-edge.” By investing in training, certifications, and industry conferences, he makes his team ready to tackle every challenge coming their way. “I promote continuous learning through regular training sessions, certifications, and industry conferences,” he reiterates. His Six Sigma expertise is instrumental in driving data-driven decision- making, optimizing processes, and achieving measurable results. experience and a approach to drive “ “By analyzing sales metrics, customer feedback, and market trends, we can identify opportunities for improvement and make informed strategic decisions.” This approach not only enhances efficiency but also drives better results. The holistic approach to leadership, combining collaboration, learning, and data-driven insights, has been instrumental in driving the company's success and solidifying Prashant's reputation as a leading figure in the cybersecurity industry. Balancing Security and Efficiency: A Strategic Approach The cornerstone of effective cybersecurity lies in the harmonious interplay of robust security measures and seamless operations. Prashant emphasizes the importance of achieving this balance to ensure both the protection of digital assets and the uninterrupted functioning of business processes.

To strike this equilibrium, organizations must prioritize open and in-depth communication with clients. By comprehending the client's specific security needs, operational challenges, and compliance obligations, cybersecurity providers can tailor solutions that effectively mitigate risks without compromising efficiency. This collaborative approach ensures that security measures are not merely implemented but integrated seamlessly into the client's business operations. Proactive risk assessment is another cornerstone of effective cybersecurity. By regularly evaluating potential vulnerabilities, organizations can identify and address issues before they escalate. “Regular risk assessments help identify potential vulnerabilities and areas for improvement, allowing companies to address issues proactively and minimize impacts on both security and operations,” Prashant states. Finally, a well-defined incident response plan is essential for mitigating the impact of security breaches. “Developing and maintaining robust incident response plans ensures quick resolution of security incidents, reducing potential disruptions to operations,” Prashant says. By having a clear and actionable plan in place, organizations can minimize downtime and recover from incidents swiftly. By aligning security solutions with the client's strategic goals, companies can create a symbiotic relationship between protection and productivity. This approach safeguards sensitive information and enhances overall business performance. Prashant emphasizes the critical role of continuous monitoring in maintaining a robust security posture. “Implementing continuous monitoring tools and processes allows for real-time threat detection and response,” he asserts. This proactive approach ensures that security measures remain current and agile, adapting to the ever- evolving threat landscape without compromising operational efficiency. “Stay Vigilant, Stay Secure!” Prashant's extensive experience in the cybersecurity domain has solidified his position as a respected industry leader. When offering guidance to aspiring cybersecurity professionals, he emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptation. To further optimize operations, companies strive to seamlessly integrate security measures into existing workflows. “Companies work to integrate security measures seamlessly into the client’s existing processes and workflows,” Prashant explains. This approach minimizes disruptions and ensures that security becomes an integral part of daily operations. “Focus on continuous learning and staying updated with the latest threats and technologies,” Prashant advises. Building a strong foundation in cybersecurity fundamentals is crucial, but specialization in a particular niche can set aspiring professionals apart. Networking with industry peers and seeking mentorship can provide invaluable insights and guidance. Adherence to ethical practices and compliance regulations is paramount in establishing credibility. Practical experience gained through projects and internships is essential for developing real-world skills and understanding the nuances of the cybersecurity landscape. By analyzing sales improvement and make “ metrics, customer informed strategic feedback, and market decisions. Staying Ahead in a Competitive Cybersecurity Landscape trends, we can identify opportunities for Prashant emphasizes the critical importance of continuous learning and adaptation in today's rapidly evolving business environment. “The business landscape is fiercely competitive, with disruptive technologies and innovative solutions emerging regularly,” he states. To thrive in this dynamic ecosystem, professionals must position themselves as industry experts through ongoing education and certification. “ Certifications serve as powerful credentials, validating an individual's skills and knowledge.

Developing and reducing potential “ maintaining robust disruptions to incident response plans operations. ensures quick resolution of security incidents, “ As Prashant explains, “Certifications provide a tangible way to showcase one's expertise and knowledge.” This enhanced credibility fosters trust and facilitates the building of strong professional relationships. The personal benefits of certification extend beyond career advancement. “Learning and obtaining certifications instil a sense of accomplishment and pride,” Prashant notes. As individuals challenge themselves to acquire new skills, they develop a greater sense of confidence and resilience, empowering them to take on new challenges and leadership roles. Certifications also play a pivotal role in navigating career transitions. “As industries evolve, professionals may need to pivot or explore new career paths,” Prashant observes. By acquiring relevant certifications, individuals can enhance their job prospects and successfully transition into new roles. A proven ability to develop and execute comprehensive sales plans, combined with a talent for building and motivating high-performing teams, has enabled Prashant to deliver outstanding results consistently. His strategic mindset and hands-on approach make him a valuable asset to any organization navigating the complexities of the cybersecurity market. Continuous learning and certification are essential for professionals seeking to thrive in today's competitive landscape. By investing in their professional development, individuals can build strong foundations for long-term success. Fostering A Cyber-Safe Tomorrow Prashant further underscores the dynamic nature of the cybersecurity industry, emphasizing the need for adaptability. By staying informed about emerging threats and technologies, aspiring professionals can position themselves as valuable assets in this ever-evolving field.

Story of the Sophisticated Cyber Attack on TfL I when this well-oiled machine is thrown into chaos—not because of faulty trains or snowstorms, but because of a sophisticated cyberattack. Let’s dive into the story of this nightmare scenario and how it all unfolded, causing a major fallout across the city. The first sign that something was amiss came when passengers began to experience delays in buying tickets or topping up their Oyster cards. Confusion spread as TfL's website became intermittently unresponsive, and digital signage at bus stops and tube stations began glitching. magine the bustling underground of London, where millions rely on the Transport for London (TfL) system to get them from point A to point B. Now, picture a day It wasn’t long before panic set in. TfL employees, initially unaware of the gravity of the situation, thought it was a temporary server issue. Little did they know, this was the calm before the storm. The attack was escalating, and by the time they realized what was happening, it was too late. The Beginning of a Cyber Nightmare It started off as a normal day. The city’s transport systems were working seamlessly, buses were running on time (for once), and everything seemed fine. But beneath the surface, cybercriminals had already gained access to TfL’s sensitive systems. These hackers didn’t use brute force or flashy methods. No, this was a highly calculated, sophisticated cyberattack designed to infiltrate the heart of TfL’s operations without raising any alarms at first. "A Coordinated Attack on Our Systems” When questioned about the incident later, a spokesperson for TfL referred to it as a “coordinated and targeted cyberattack on our systems.” The hackers hadn’t just stumbled into the network. This was a well-rehearsed attack aimed at bringing London’s most vital transportation system to its knees. Within hours, TfL’s IT systems were compromised. Information about ticketing, timetables, employee details, and even security systems began to fall into the wrong hands. The hackers? They were meticulous, sneaking their way deeper into the system, covering their tracks, and waiting for the right moment to pull the plug. “I’ve never seen anything like it,” one TfL IT worker said, still reeling from the chaos. “We’d prepared for data breaches, but this level of sophistication was something we hadn’t anticipated.” The First Signs of Trouble What made this attack even more terrifying was the level of knowledge the hackers displayed about TfL’s internal operations. They knew where to hit, what data to target, and how to cause maximum disruption without being immediately noticed. A Major Fallout We all know that sinking feeling when the Wi-Fi cuts out in the middle of a Zoom meeting, right? Now imagine that, but for an entire city’s public transportation system. 18 | www.cioworldindia.com Sept, 2024 19 | www.cioworldindia.com Sept, 2024

Cybercriminals on a Mission an attack in the future. The truth? No system, no matter how advanced, is immune to cyber threats. The impact of the attack was felt by the millions who rely on the system. Commuters who had pre-booked journeys suddenly found their tickets void. Card readers malfunctioned, resulting in long lines as passengers scrambled to find cash (if they still carried any!). TfL’s mobile app? Useless. Customers trying to access journey planners were left staring at the infamous loading circle. There were calls for greater investment in cybersecurity infrastructure, not just within TfL but across all critical sectors. The attack exposed vulnerabilities in the way data is handled, stored, and protected—vulnerabilities that other cybercriminals could exploit if changes weren’t made. TfL’s ordeal was a painful reminder of how reliant we are on digital infrastructure, and how devastating it can be when that infrastructure is compromised. At this point, the authorities knew they weren’t dealing with just any cybercriminals. These hackers were out for something big—possibly ransom or highly sensitive data. But what were they after? The Silver Lining: A Lesson for Everyone Speculations swirled. Was it a ransom demand, one of those terrifying “pay up or else” schemes where a city is held hostage until cybercriminals receive their Bitcoin bounty? Or was this just the beginning of something bigger? We, of course, didn’t get immediate answers. But what we do know is that this kind of attack was meticulously planned. If there’s one thing we can all take away from the TfL cyberattack, it’s that cybersecurity needs to be front and center, not just for businesses, but for public institutions, governments, and individuals. The sophistication of this attack isn’t just a wake-up call for IT departments; it’s a wake-up call for all of us. After all, how secure is your personal data? How much do you trust the systems you rely on daily? These aren’t just questions for the folks in Silicon Valley—they’re questions for every single one of us navigating an increasingly digital world. TfL’s Response: “We Were Prepared for the Worst” As the digital chaos spread, TfL acted quickly to shut down parts of its network and isolate the breach. That sounds simple, but in reality, it’s like trying to stop a leak in a dam that’s already bursting. TfL’s IT and cybersecurity teams were thrown into overdrive, working around the clock to restore systems while communicating with law enforcement and cybersecurity experts. In the end, TfL’s story of sophisticated cyber-warfare is a testament to the importance of being prepared, staying vigilant, and, above all, understanding that when it comes to cybersecurity, it’s not just about protecting what you have—it’s about planning for what might come next. “We were prepared for the worst,” one senior TfL executive said in a press conference. “Our contingency plans ensured that the core services were restored as quickly as possible, but make no mistake, this was a major wake-up call for all of us.” So, while we may not all be running public transportation systems, we’re all part of this digital ecosystem. And, as TfL has shown us, even the most sophisticated systems can fall prey to cybercriminals—making it our collective responsibility to protect our data, our systems, and our future. By the end of the ordeal, TfL had successfully blocked the hackers from further infiltrating the system, though not before some damage had been done. Sensitive data, including employee information, was potentially compromised, and the full extent of the breach wasn’t immediately clear. The Fallout: What We Can Learn from TfL’s Ordeal In the weeks following the attack, TfL, cybersecurity experts, and government agencies took a long, hard look at what went wrong and what could be done to prevent such 20 | www.cioworldindia.com Sept, 2024

Exploring the Benefits ofBusiness Continuity Planning in Cybersecurity T ourselves against digital threats—malware, phishing, ransomware, and all the other nightmares lurking in the cyberverse. But here's the thing: as good as we may be at securing networks and building firewalls, cybersecurity isn't just about protection in the moment. It’s also about foresight, preparation, and continuity. Enter Business Continuity Planning (BCP)—a proactive strategy that ensures your organization doesn't just survive a cyberattack, but thrives in the aftermath. 1. It Keeps the Lights On (Literally and Figuratively) ired of the slow speed, when you think of cybersecurity, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the myriad ways in which we defend When disaster strikes—whether it’s a cyberattack, a data breach, or a natural disaster—BCP ensures that the critical parts of your business remain operational. It prioritizes what needs to be up and running first and helps you allocate resources to keep those key systems humming. Think about it: if your customer data gets wiped out or compromised, how will you serve your clients? BCP helps prevent those catastrophic pauses in service that can send clients running in the opposite direction. 2. Reducing Downtime is a Game Changer So, what exactly is Business Continuity Planning? It’s like having a fire drill but for your business's data and digital assets. It’s not just about asking, “What if we get hacked?” but more importantly, “What do we do after we get hacked?” Having a BCP in place ensures that your business can continue its operations without skipping a beat—even in the event of a cyber-catastrophe. And let’s face it, in today’s digital landscape, it’s not a matter of if a security incident will happen, but when. Every minute your business is down due to a cyberattack, you’re losing money, customers, and potentially even your reputation. That’s why BCP is like having a lifeboat ready to go. It reduces downtime because your team already knows exactly what to do to get things back on track—faster than if you were winging it. And in the world of cybersecurity, time is literally money. Picture this: a ransomware attack has locked you out of your critical systems. Without a solid continuity plan, it could take days (or weeks!) to recover. With BCP, you have backup systems in place, a detailed incident response, and a path forward, minimizing the financial and operational impact. Why BCP Is Your Best Friend in Cybersecurity Let’s break it down: imagine you’re sailing a ship across an unpredictable ocean (because really, isn’t that the perfect metaphor for running a business these days?). You can prepare for rough seas by strengthening your ship and training your crew, but storms will still come. A BCP is like a well-thought-out map and set of instructions that tell you how to steer your ship safely through the storm and ensure your crew doesn’t panic. 3. It Gives Your IT Team (and You) Peace of Mind A Proactive Approach Let’s face it—cybersecurity is a high-stress field. Your IT team probably spends its nights worrying about the myriad 22 | www.cioworldindia.com Sept, 2024 23 | www.cioworldindia.com Sept, 2024

ways things could go wrong. A good BCP is like a digital weighted blanket for them. It gives them peace of mind knowing they’re not just flying by the seat of their pants. your team knows exactly who to contact and when. It’s like having a go-to person for tech support, but on steroids. 5. Testing and Updates Your team knows that if the worst does happen, there’s a well-defined procedure to follow. They won’t be scrambling to put out fires but instead calmly following a well- structured plan. It’s the difference between organized chaos and a full-on meltdown. Your BCP isn’t a “set it and forget it” kind of thing. It needs regular testing and updating to ensure that it remains effective. Cyber threats evolve, and your plan should too. Schedule regular tests—whether it’s a full-on “cyberattack simulation” or a simpler tabletop exercise—and update the plan as needed. Building Blocks of a Solid Business Continuity Plan The Human Element in BCP Now that we’ve sung the praises of BCP, let’s talk about what actually goes into crafting one. You’re not going to slap together a few ideas on a sticky note and call it a day, right? Here’s a look at some of the essential pieces you need to put in place for a cybersecurity-centric BCP. One aspect of BCP that often gets overlooked is the human side of things. We get it: cybersecurity is all about tech. But the people in your organization play a huge role in executing your continuity plan. 1. Identify Your Critical Systems and Assets Invest in regular training so that your team knows how to respond in the event of a cyber-incident. Everyone should be aware of phishing scams, password best practices, and incident reporting protocols. After all, your employees are the first line of defense against a cyberattack, and they’ll also be the first to help implement your BCP when things go wrong. What are the most important parts of your business? Is it your customer database? Your payment processing system? Maybe it’s your website. Whatever it is, make sure you identify these assets first. Your BCP should prioritize keeping these systems running or restoring them as quickly as possible. 2. Risk Assessment The Humour in Planning for Disaster You can’t plan for every possible scenario (though that would be impressive). But you can assess the most likely risks to your business and focus your planning efforts there. Is ransomware a top concern? Data breaches? Phishing attacks? A solid BCP addresses the most probable threats and outlines exactly how to respond to each. Now, you might be thinking: “This sounds stressful.” And sure, no one wants to deal with a cyberattack or business disruption. But here’s the secret sauce: a well-prepared organization doesn’t need to panic. There’s humour to be found in the irony that while you're preparing for the worst, you’re actually making sure the worst never feels quite as bad. And hey, if your biggest problem is that your continuity plan works too well, that’s a pretty great problem to have. 3. Regular Backups Backup your data. No, seriously, do it. This one is non- negotiable. Your BCP should include a robust system for backing up data regularly so that even in the event of a breach, you’re not losing valuable information. And don’t forget to test your backups to make sure they actually work. In Effect A proactive approach is essential in today’s cybersecurity climate, and Business Continuity Planning is the safety net you didn’t know you needed—until you do. It’s the unsung hero in your organization, standing ready to ensure you weather any storm, whether it’s a ransomware attack, a data breach, or an unexpected outage. 4. Communication Plan You don’t want to be left standing around like a deer in the headlights when a cyber-disaster strikes. A key part of BCP is ensuring everyone knows what their role is and who they need to communicate with. Create a chain of command so So, don’t wait for disaster to strike. Build your BCP now, empower your team, and sleep a little easier knowing you’ve got this whole cyber-continuity thing under control. 24 | www.cioworldindia.com Sept, 2024

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The Most Impactful Sales Leadership In Cybersecurity To Watch Out