Effective foundational security principles

Abstract

Before taking on any more security-related technical and financial debt, organisations should take a hard look at their foundational security principles and culture. Organisations that focus on security fundamentals can make a significant improvement in their security posture while spending less and reducing the need for complex technical tools. With so much focus on the latest, greatest technologies, many organisations fail to properly secure the basics. Without a strong foundation to build on, the other tools may be much less effective. This paper serves to guide the reader on the current security threats on the horizon for most organisations and focuses on five basic steps an organisation or individual can take to improve awareness and skill in addressing and managing these threats. Security can be expensive, but not all actions have to be. This is especially true when considering the role that users play in the overall security posture of an organisation. The paper outlines steps the reader can learn and use to strengthen their defences without spending a fortune.