We live in an increasingly digital world where the future of work is being tested by cybersecurity. These challenges for the future of work are complex and will continue to challenge businesses in all industries including professional services and consulting businesses.
New technologies, work practices, remote and hybrid work environments will continue to challenge businesses as cyber criminals continue to test access to data and information. Outlined below are some of the challenges that cybersecurity presents for businesses in their journey towards the future of work.
One of the dominant challenges is the constant evolution and sophistication of cyber threats. Today we are seeing rapid development of automation and AI, and globalisation of data in our digital interconnected worlds. Cyber criminals continue to search for vulnerabilities, requiring organisations to be super vigilant of threats and the latest security measures and capabilities that can protect their employees and businesses. This requires proactivity, regular risk assessments and ongoing organisational training to to ensure everyone is up to date and has cyber security at the forefront of their mind.
Since our Covid lockdowns, the world of remote and hybrid work has become a more common expectation in the retention and management of workforces. As more and more employees work from home, remotely, from the office or both, businesses are challenged by security risks external to their traditional working environments. Security needs to reflect access through possible unsecured networks or devices that may open businesses up to cyber attacks. Tools, training and secure working methodologies and environments will help future of work engaged businesses protect themselves from threats.
Our interconnected digital world for commerce, including our growing internet driven world of interconnected devices, continue to challenge businesses and how cyber security is managed. This world driven by the internet increases access points for cyber security exploitation, increasing the need for connected devices to be secured and to reduce vulnerabilities for attack.
Data privacy and protection is also an increasing concern with governments around the world working to tighten rules and regulations on how personal data is managed and handled. Already in Europe, for some time, strict rules have been in place requiring organisation to comply to data protection and management principles and face penalties and reputational damage for non-compliance. Future of work demands continue to bring into focus these requirements as workforces become decentralised.
One of the most critical challenges facing business in the future of work is the need for training and retention of highly trained cyber security professionals capable of staying ahead of the threats. As demands grow, skill shortages will test capabilities. As professional services organisations like APSCO continue to advise industry and government, the importance of talent shortages of professionals in the cybersecurity sector will need to be continually reviewed with emphasis placed on training and education of experienced professionals.
Proactivity, vigilance, and understanding of cybersecurity threats highlighted above, continue to be critical requirements to combat the significant threats to future of work evolution and capabilities. The future of work is significant in the evolution of modern workplaces that are increasingly digital. For the benefits this brings participants it is important this is offset with core cybersecurity management practices in place.