This is an excerpt from the preface of my book “Beyond Technology: The Importance of InfoSec Staffing”.
A pivotal scene from the classic movie, The Wizard of Oz, provides a fitting allegory for the contrast between reality and illusion. When Dorothy and her companions finally make it into Oz and confront the Wizard, they find that the fearsome image they see hovering above their heads is nothing more than an ordinary man pulling leavers and pushing buttons behind a curtain. He declares, “Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain,” as he frantically attempts to preserve the illusion. This paradigm assumes a new and critical significance in the context of information security.
The operation of information security teams is similar to that of the ordinary man behind the curtain. Their successes are largely unseen and efforts unnoticed even though they are responsible for the operation of the intricate machinery of a company’s data and information systems, safeguarding sensitive data from the persistent threats of breaches, hacks, and disclosures. The information security team are the ordinary men and women that guarantee the safety and integrity of a company’s most valuable assets, much like the Wizard from Kansas was the true power behind the facade.
A False Sense of Security
In numerous organizations, security is often perceived as an inherent aspect of the infrastructure — a given. Without much consideration for the layers of protection that have been meticulously designed, implemented, and maintained, employees access secure files, use applications, and connect into their computers. The belief that security is inherent and guaranteed, rather than the outcome of continuous effort and vigilance, is the illusion of security.
The scene from The Wizard of Oz serves as a reminder that what we consider to be secure or safe is frequently the outcome of diligent effort that occurs beyond our awareness. The sophisticated systems and protocols developed by information security teams create the appearance of seamless and effortless security, much like the Wizard’s extravagant contraptions created an illusion of power. Nevertheless, this security is anything but effortless; it necessitates continuous monitoring, modifications, and attention to maintain its efficacy.
The Heroes who should be Unseen
The phrase “pay no attention to the man behind the curtain” can also be interpreted as a directive to disregard the behind-the-scenes activity, to assume it is automatic. This is an incorrect perspective in the context of information security. Even though the unseen work of security professionals is instrumental in preventing threats, it is frequently overlooked due to its inherent invisibility. No breaches, data loss, or headlines are generated when security measures function as intended. This absence of calamity is the most significant accomplishment of an information security team; however, it also results in their efforts going unnoticed.
Nevertheless, the work of information security teams is essential to the safety of a company’s data. These professionals are responsible for the protection of the company’s most valuable assets, the development of defenses, the response to incidents, and the comprehension of the intricate landscape of cyber threats. The illusion of security would be rapidly dispelled without their presence.
The Significance of Recognizing the Work that Goes Unnoticed
Although it may be appealing to disregard the work that is being conducted in the background, this stance can result in a lack of investment in essential resources and complacency. The value of the man behind the curtain is ultimately recognized by the characters in The Wizard of Oz, and similarly, corporations should acknowledge the value of their information security teams. Not only does acknowledging the significance of these teams enhance morale, but it also guarantees that the organization will continue to prioritize security in a threat landscape that is constantly changing.
Continuous training and development, as well as the most recent technology, are indispensable. Security is a dynamic process that necessitates ongoing attention; it is not a one-time remedy. Companies can enhance their security teams’ support and, consequently, safeguard their data and systems by acknowledging the work that occurs behind the scenes.
Conclusion
The scene from The Wizard of Oz in which the Wizard instructs Dorothy and her friends to “pay no attention to the man behind the curtain” serves as a relevant metaphor for the oft disregarded work of information security teams. These professionals are the genuine ones working in the background to create the illusion of seamless security. Their efforts are indispensable to the security of any organization. Companies can enhance the support provided to their security teams and guarantee that they are adequately prepared to safeguard against the expanding spectrum of cyber threats by acknowledging the importance of the “man behind the curtain.” By doing so, they recognize that genuine security is not a delusion, but rather the outcome of consistent diligence and toil.
However, the initial step is to establish the team responsible for the behind-the-scenes task. This book discusses the significance of the team in protecting your company’s data and infrastructure from the cybersecurity hazards of today, going hand in hand with technology deployed.