Cybersecurity: A Collaborative Imperative for ICT and Business

The rapid integration of ICT into business operations has increasingly blurred the line between in-house ICT functions and services outsourced to external providers. Many businesses are now not only developing their own software but also offering it to third parties through APIs.  

This widespread collaboration in integrating APIs and other software products necessitates robust security measures to ensure data safety, protect client service provision, and safeguard digital infrastructure. As the interdependence between ICT and business deepens, the need for robust cybersecurity measures becomes increasingly critical. 

 

Cybersecurity as an Existential Risk

The ongoing digital transformation has brought many benefits but has also significantly increased the risk of cyber threats. As more businesses integrate ICT into their operations, the attack surface expands, making cybersecurity an existential issue. The discussion at SAICTA’s July Digital Dawn event highlighted that cybersecurity can no longer be an afterthought or a mere compliance requirement. Instead, it must be a foundational element of every organisation’s strategy. Keynote speaker, Ray Naicker, Chief Information Officer at Nedbank, emphasised that the more digital an organisation becomes, the more vulnerable it is to cyber-attacks. Noting the tremendous consequences of cyber-attacks for large-scale corporate enterprises, he added, 

“The greatest risk is having a breach of data and information.”

The Need for Tailored Cybersecurity Measures

Cybersecurity is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Different organisations face unique risks, depending on their digital infrastructure, industry, and operational practices. This diversity necessitates tailored cybersecurity measures that address the specific threats an organisation may encounter. For instance, generative AI and third-party dependencies are significant emerging threats, requiring customised threat profiles and proactive strategies to mitigate these risks. 

Digital Dawn panellist, Dr Elmarie Biermann, noted that many organisations mistakenly equate compliance with security but ticking the box on regulations like the Protection of Personal Information Act (PoPIA) is insufficient.  

“Compliance does not equal security,” 

The true measure of cybersecurity resilience is adopting global industry standards and creating frameworks that address the specific threats the organisation faces. 

Public-Private Sector Collaboration: A Critical Partnership

A recurring theme throughout the Digital Dawn discussion was the importance of collaboration between the private sector and government. Panellist, Vickus Meyer, noted, “Cybersecurity is part of life and ensuring that all parties are secure makes the digital world a lot safer.” By fostering partnerships, businesses and government agencies can fast-track the adoption of new technologies, manage vulnerabilities more effectively, and enhance overall security. 

This collaborative approach is essential to building the local ICT expertise needed to develop robust cybersecurity frameworks. With 90% of enterprise clients having their own in-house software development capabilities, the need for a strong, locally developed IT base is more significant than ever. 

Addressing the Skills Shortage

A significant challenge highlighted at Digital Dawn was the global shortage of cybersecurity skills. Both Naicker and Meyer stressed the urgent need to encourage more individuals to enter the cybersecurity field. This can be achieved by providing better pathways for practical learning and professional development, including work-in-training programs and mentorship opportunities. 

Dr Biermann also emphasised the role of education in building a strong cybersecurity foundation, advocating for closer collaboration between universities and the ICT sector to ensure that graduates are equipped with the skills needed to protect against emerging cyber threats. 

A Call to Action for Shared Responsibility

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. As ICT continues to integrate with business operations, the importance of safeguarding digital assets and information cannot be overstated. By prioritising tailored cybersecurity strategies, fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors, and addressing the skills gap, businesses can better protect themselves against increasingly destabilising threats in today’s digital landscape. Robust cybersecurity is not just an option—it is a necessity! 

Author: Jason Lottering

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