Intelligent CIO APAC Issue 16 | Page 83

FINAL WORD ransomware as ‘ one of the most immediate , highest impact cyberthreats to Australia .’
It sent a clear message to organizations of all kinds to not be complacent in the face of increasing cyber-risk , urging them to understand the risks and prepare accordingly , know what action to take in the event of a ransomware attack and maintain a clear understanding of their legal and regulatory obligations .
It ’ s no surprise that the global shift to remote work caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has increased opportunities for cybercriminals . Just as it allowed organizations to accelerate their Digital Transformation , revamp business and operating models , and boost operational efficiency and quality of service , it also provided many new attack routes for threat actors .
Savvy technology leaders called for a renewed focus on cybersecurity as a key business enabler , especially in the case of converged operational technology ( OT ) and Information Technology ( IT ) environments , such as those in manufacturing , oil and gas and water and waste management .
But with Digital Transformation and cybersecurity now becoming essential components of every business , there needs to be an appropriate organizational response to this : CIOs and CISOs need to be elevated to board level . At present they are conspicuous by their absence .
It ’ s no surprise that the global shift to remote work caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has increased opportunities for cybercriminals .
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