How is your organization looking to adjust tools for data security or privacy, if at all? Are you adding new tools, consolidating your current stack, or trying to improve what’s already in place?

As a CSO, I'm constantly evaluating our toolset. Awareness is key. However, I start by considering our company's overall strategy. Where are we heading? What new risks might we face? Are we growing organically or through mergers and acquisitions? These factors shape my strategy. I need to adjust my approach based on the economy and emerging threats. It's also crucial to recognize which threats are diminishing. Most of our colleagues, and I agree with this approach, are moving towards platform-based solutions rather than individual tools.

I see four core platforms: identity management, endpoint platforms, security information and event management (SIEM), and cloud security solutions. By adopting a platform perspective, new acquisitions align with this broader strategy. Implementing a platform like SSC or SASE isn't instantaneous, but it sets us on a path towards zero trust. This approach simplifies tool selection as new tools must integrate with existing platforms via APIs, ensuring interconnectivity and added value. Decommissioning outdated tools is equally important. While we excel at acquiring and implementing new products, we often fall short in retiring old ones.

For me, a crucial aspect before even discussing tools is focusing on education and awareness around data security. It's essential to understand what data is, how to classify it, and the responsibilities of data owners throughout the data lifecycle. These foundational elements are critical to any data security program. Before layering on tools to manage and secure data, it's vital to establish this educational groundwork. Without it, the effectiveness of the tools is significantly diminished. Planning for the future and ensuring we have the appropriate tools on the horizon is important, but starting with education and awareness is paramount.

We are focusing on both consolidating our tools and maximizing the utility of what we already have. Like many organizations, we have accumulated a variety of tools, some of which have overlapping functionalities. As the landscape evolves, certain tools that were once essential have become less critical. This process is akin to a spring cleaning for our tech stack, where we assess what we currently need and anticipate future requirements. This approach is closely tied to budgeting and maintaining a strong relationship with the IT team, as they are integral to understanding the business's pulse. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the organization runs efficiently while aligning our toolset with our strategic objectives.