Five expert recommendations to build a resilient cybersecurity strategy

How can you prepare for this change?

Kickstarting your cybersecurity journey is often complicated, with many organisations not knowing where to start.  Here are our top five recommendations to build a resilient cybersecurity ecosystem.

1. Embrace a holistic security strategy

A robust cybersecurity framework integrates technology, processes, and people. This means investing in advanced security tools, establishing clear protocols, and fostering a culture of security awareness among employees. Regular training and simulations can empower staff to recognise and respond to threats effectively.

2. Prioritise risk management

Understanding and managing risk is fundamental. Conduct regular risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and prioritise mitigation efforts. Conducting a thorough risk assessment helps identify potential threats and weaknesses in your infrastructure. This proactive approach allows you to prioritise and address the most critical risks, ensuring a solid foundation for your cybersecurity strategy.

3. Invest in incident response planning

Despite best efforts, breaches can occur. Having a well-defined incident response plan ensures that your organisation can quickly contain and mitigate the impact of an attack. Regularly update and test your response plan to adapt to new threats and scenarios.

4. Leverage emerging technologies

Stay ahead of cybercriminals by leveraging emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. These technologies can enhance threat detection, automate responses, and provide deeper insights into potential vulnerabilities.

5. Foster collaboration and information sharing

Cybersecurity is a collective effort. Collaborate with industry peers, government agencies, and cybersecurity experts to share insights and best practices. Participation in information-sharing initiatives can enhance your organisation’s threat intelligence and response capabilities.

How can Wood enable this change?

Delivering full life cycle consulting and engineering expertise, we optimise and drive digitalisation in operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) environments.

As an example, for a large gas reserve project, we developed a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy and technical requirements for a Cybersecurity Management System (CSMS). By integrating diverse systems and conducting a site survey and asset inventory, we enhanced the client’s security position. Partnering with their OT/IT team, we implemented CSMS policies and procedures, ensuring a ‘secure by design’ approach and achieving layered security. In another example, for one of the largest battery energy storage projects in Europe, as the owner’s engineer and construction manager, we managed compliance by conducting cybersecurity audits, identifying gaps, and planning mitigation strategies to enhance overall security.

Protecting OT integrity and ensuring efficient production demands a deep understanding of operational needs like high availability, safety, and reliability. Our OT security specialists offer comprehensive assessments and detailed threat and compliance analyses to safeguard operations. With extensive experience in integrating digital solutions, we help businesses implement secure and effective measures seamlessly.

Strengthening cybersecurity

Companies must now prioritise real-time threat detection and response, ensuring that any potential cyber incidents are promptly reported and managed. In this highly interconnected industry, supply chain security is paramount. The requirements outlined in the NIS2 directive will compel companies to rigorously vet their third-party suppliers, thereby fortifying the entire ecosystem.

For more detailed advice on how your organisation can comply with the NIS2 directive and build a robust cybersecurity strategy, contact our digital consultants today. Together, we can ensure that your operations remain secure and competitive in this ever-evolving digital age.