Mind the Gap: From Awareness to Action in Cyber Collaboration

When it comes to cybersecurity, across the industry, we talk about finding and securing the gaps. But what happens when the gaps aren’t just between tech and data but between the insights and actions that help solve the problem? In our 2024 Threat Intelligence and Collaboration Study, we found a glaring disconnect. The overwhelming majority of respondents (91%) said collaboration and information sharing are very important, if not critical, for cybersecurity. However, half (49%) also recognized their struggle to overcome these team, tech, and data silos that limit the value they get from their threat intelligence.

This is a problem but a solvable one that can help us address underlying issues that impact security programs.

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The State of Cybersecurity: Isolation vs. Collaboration

The Cyware survey shed light on some of the issues which create barriers to trusted intelligence sharing and effective security collaboration. We found 70% of organizations believe they could improve threat intelligence sharing, and more than half (53%) of respondents said they don’t use Information Sharing and Analysis Centers (ISACs). In fact, 28% were unaware of how ISACs can support intelligence sharing altogether. This isolationist approach creates a glaring vulnerability in cybersecurity defense strategies. When we operate in silos, we miss out on the knowledge that could help us preempt and mitigate threats more effectively.

Lost Without Translation

Although some organizations are making headway to share more intelligence, which is no doubt a critical task, it alone is not enough. We cannot simply share meaningful insights. We have to make sure that the right people receive it, with the right context around what to do next. And we need to do all this in real time, which means making sure the right tech is in place to ensure consistent, fast, automated collaboration.

Ultimately, the disconnect between teams and the siloed use of security tools poses a significant threat to the effective delivery of threat intelligence, and consequently, to organizations’ ability to protect themselves against cybersecurity risks. These centers integrate traditionally siloed security functions, making them scalable and combining high-fidelity threat intelligence with threat operations for rapid response.

Actionable Insights for a United Front

Here are some practical ways companies can bridge the gap between insights and actions based on the survey’s findings:

Cultivating a Culture of Sharing

Cybersecurity doesn’t work in isolation; it’s team driven, with a need to work together against a motivated adversary. Here’s how you can foster a culture of open information sharing in your organization:

• Join Threat Intelligence Sharing Platforms: Platforms like ISACs (Information Sharing and Analysis Centers) and ISAOs (Information Sharing and Analysis Organizations) are excellent starting points. They facilitate the exchange of threat intelligence across industries, providing early warnings of emerging threats.
• Implement Information Sharing Agreements: Establish formal agreements with trusted partners to ensure consistent and reliable sharing of threat intelligence. This isn’t just about giving; it’s about receiving critical information that can protect your organization.

Virtual and Distributed Cyber Fusion Centers

A key solution to overcoming the disconnect in threat intelligence sharing and collaboration is the implementation of virtual and distributed Cyber Fusion Centers. These centers offer a modernized approach to security operations by integrating traditionally siloed functions into a cohesive and scalable system.

• Definition and Value: Cyber Fusion Centers act like connective tissue, connecting threat intelligence, security operations, and incident response. By breaking down silos, they facilitate seamless communication and collaboration among different security teams. Virtual and distributed versions of these centers allow for scalability and flexibility, enabling organizations to leverage resources and expertise from various locations.

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• Implementation Steps:
  1. Assessment and Planning: Evaluate current security operations and identify areas where silos exist. Develop a strategic plan to integrate these functions into a Cyber Fusion Center.
  2. Technology Integration: Invest in technologies that support the integration of security, IT, and risk tools. It’s not about adding layer upon layer of tech; it’s about creating a tech stack that collaborates across layers and across teams.
  3. Process Optimization: Redefine and streamline processes to ensure effective collaboration and rapid response to threats. This may involve automating certain tasks to reduce the burden on skilled personnel.
  4. Training and Development: Provide continuous training to upskill existing staff and attract new talent with expertise in integrated security operations. Emphasize the importance of collaboration and the use of advanced tools.
  5. Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and refine the Cyber Fusion Center’s operations to adapt to evolving threats and technological advancements.

The Road Ahead: Embracing a Collaborative Future

The findings from Cyware’s survey underscore the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how we approach threat intelligence sharing and collaboration. But change doesn’t happen overnight. It requires a concerted effort from every organization, big and small, to embrace a more collaborative approach.

Imagine a world where threat intelligence flows freely, where organizations work together seamlessly to detect and neutralize threats in real time. This isn’t just a dream; it’s a necessary evolution in our approach to cybersecurity.

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Collaboration is not just a strategy; it’s a necessity in the fight against cyber threats. Together, we can create a safer digital ecosystem. We have the power to make a difference, but it requires us to work together, share information, and leverage the best tools and technologies available.

A Call to Action

By fostering a culture of sharing, investing in advanced collaboration tools, and addressing skill and resource gaps, we can enhance our security posture and contribute to a more resilient cybersecurity community.