Avoiding status quo bias in cybersecurity

General

Avoiding status quo bias in cybersecurity

This blog shows how the status quo bias – the human tendency to prefer the current situation – complicates our private and professional lives. We cope with suboptimal decisions instead of embracing beauty, challenge, and change. Companies make choices that are not in their best interest based on the vague “cloud is insecure” feeling that nourishes the status quo bias all too well. As a solution, let us look at the situation through a cybersecurity lens. There is much to analyze but just one vital must-do for organizations: make the right choice.

Summary

This paper explores status quo bias, resistance to change, and its impact on cloud adoption and cybersecurity. Discover how concerns over security and control hinder the acceptance of cloud-based solutions and SaaS offerings. Get insights into the benefits, like efficiency and cost savings, and learn about booking a free expert consultation to assess your cybersecurity posture and plan ahead.

Companies are slow to move away from what’s working for them now — even if there are benefits to change.

In Verizon’s 2021 DBIR, 72% of infosec leaders prioritize cloud migration for digital transformation. Organizations hesitate to migrate on-premise apps to the cloud, fearing data security and IT management loss. This hesitation originates from the status quo bias, preferring the current situation over suboptimal change.

What do we mean by ‘the cloud’?

The cloud is a global network of remote servers that operate as a single ecosystem. These servers are designed to store and manage data, run applications, and deliver content or services like productivity software, webmail, social media, or vulnerability management software. Instead of accessing data from a local computer, you can access it online from any web-enabled device anywhere anytime.

To overcome biases and embrace the benefits of cloud-based solutions, companies should view the situation through a cybersecurity lens.

With the right security controls and strategies in place, cloud adoption can provide businesses with increased efficiency, cost savings, and better access to resources and knowledge. There are a few initial benefits to moving to cloud/SaaS for security teams:

1.Public clouds provide built-in perimeter security and compliance controls for infrastructure, making it easier for security teams to manage data securely. This can save significant time and resources for companies, especially those without in-house cybersecurity experts.

2.Cloud-based services are generally easier to set up and configure, with many tasks such as patch management coming out of the box. This can reduce the time and effort required to manage on-premise solutions.

3.Dedicated cloud-based security tools exist that can automate and integrate security in DevOps workflows, detect runtime threats, and validate compliance. These tools can significantly enhance a company’s cybersecurity posture.

4.Single-tenant clouds offer an extra level of cyber protection by allowing administrators to control a virtual network and use an isolated section of the cloud for extra protection. Adding tools like Autobahn Security can provide an additional layer of protection by separating vulnerability findings from the on-premise network.

5.Cloud-based solutions allow for better application integration, enabling businesses to connect applications and data quickly. Integration with tools like Jira for vulnerability management can streamline processes and make remediation efforts more efficient.

6.Modern data centers are certified to the highest standards, providing companies with the most comprehensive compliance controls. Cloud providers like AWS, Azure, and GCP support multiple information security standards and compliance certifications, making it easier for companies to meet regulatory requirements.

The result

By embracing cloud and SaaS solutions, security teams can enjoy improved efficiency, cost savings, and better cybersecurity measures. Companies can explore new strategies and products without costly equipment, while ensuring secure remote work. Autobahn Security, trusted by Fortune 500 companies, provides cloud-based cybersecurity solutions with a security-by-design application that prioritizes issues.