In the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, professionals often find themselves reflecting on the lessons learned throughout their career. These lessons, simple yet impactful, have shaped the way security experts approach their work. However, as the industry continues to change and grow, there are certain aspects that cause frustration and concern.
One such issue that continues to plague the cybersecurity field is the prevalence of outdated technology, particularly the infamous beige desktop. These relics of the past can still be found lurking in the corners of data centers, running code that is outdated and often poorly documented. What is even more alarming is that these systems, which may have been developed by a summer intern years ago, have now become essential to the daily operations of many businesses.
The question that arises is how these outdated systems persist in an industry that prides itself on staying ahead of emerging threats. Despite efforts to mitigate the risks associated with legacy technology, the beige desktop remains a familiar sight for many cybersecurity professionals. The issue is further compounded by the existence of shadow IT – systems and software that operate outside the purview of the IT department.
During a recent conference, attendees were asked if they had encountered the beige desktop in their environments, to which there was a collective acknowledgment of its existence. Furthermore, when questioned about the presence of shadow IT in their organizations, the audience hesitantly admitted to its prevalence, despite having controls in place to prevent it.
This dilemma raises the crucial question of who bears the responsibility for managing the risks posed by shadow IT. While the knee-jerk reaction may be to assign this duty to the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), some argue that it may be more suitable for the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to oversee this aspect of enterprise risk. This debate underscores the need for a broader conversation within the cybersecurity community to determine the most effective way to address the challenges posed by shadow IT.
The origins of shadow IT are not inherently malicious; often, these projects are born out of a desire for innovation or the need for expediency. However, without proper oversight, these initiatives can introduce vulnerabilities that may compromise an organization’s security posture. To move towards a more secure environment that still fosters innovation, visibility and control over unapproved technologies are essential.
It is imperative for businesses, regardless of size, to transition away from outdated technologies like the beige desktop and towards a more modern and secure infrastructure. By empowering organizations with the tools and resources necessary to innovate safely, the cybersecurity community can work towards a more robust and resilient future.