Cybersecurity Insights with Contrast CISO David Lindner | 03/21/25

Insight No. 1 — Cheaping out on cybersecurity & dental hygiene both lead to pain & cost

When it comes to security budget cuts, not all choices are equal: Some can leave your organization wide open to attacks. Skimping on staff training and technology upgrades might seem like an easy way to save a few bucks, but it’s like skipping the dentist to avoid a cleaning bill. Sure, you won’t notice the cavity today, but when it turns into a root canal, you’ll be wishing you’d invested in that toothbrush. CISOs need to zero in on these high-impact areas and make a bold, risk-based case to the board that cutting here isn’t just penny-wise, it’s pound-foolish. Controversial? Maybe. But the truth is, the cost of a breach will always dwarf those short-term savings.

Insight No. 2 — The CISO isn’t just a tech expert stuck in IT — they’re a strategic leader who belongs in high-level business discussions

Security isn’t just the CISO’s burden; it’s a shared responsibility across the entire company.

Actionable tip: CISOs, communicate risk in clear business terms — like financial losses — not just technical threats. Executives, stop viewing your CISO as a support role; make them a core part of your strategy, or you’ll pay the price when the next breach hits. Even small businesses need this mindset; CISOs aren’t a luxury reserved for giants. Their job isn’t only about stopping attacks; it’s about enabling secure growth.

Insight No. 3 — Preparation beats panic

As a CISO, use solid data to estimate potential breach costs. It’s about being clear, not catastrophic. Build and test an incident response plan so you’re ready to handle issues calmly when they arise. Keep the board in the loop with straightforward, business-friendly updates; they’ll value your clarity and confidence. This keeps risks in check while showing you’re a strategic leader who balances security and business priorities.