The Importance of Operations Security


Picture a castle.

It has high walls cut from the sturdiest stone, elite soldiers protecting the perimeter, and a deep moat that can only be crossed with the castle’s drawbridge. All of these defenses are undeniably phenomenal, yet they are all rendered pointless when someone leaves the drawbridge open! How could a simple mistake like that cause such problems?!

Protective assets like walls and moats can only go so far without having procedures in place. If there are no watchmen, artillery could break the walls uninterrupted. If the soldiers are disorganized, invaders would easily slash through their units; and if someone is neglecting the drawbridge, enemies can walk right in.

Operations security (OPSEC) is an aspect of cybersecurity that focuses on what one does rather than what one has in place.

In computer terms, an organization can have filtering, monitoring, and data loss prevention tools, but they aren't foolproof in saving you from executing malware on your device or posting sensitive information online. Even with this example, the importance of operational security can still be underrated because of the lack of physical visibility, not to mention factoring in human nature. The interesting part about this is that unlike someone sneaking up on you with a sword, signs of compromise are very subtle. It is very difficult to know when you've been hit with a cyberattack before it's too late.

Becoming an Operations Security Practitioner

"Okay, I get it. The significance of the problem is pointed out. What are some ways users and organizations can practice sound operations security?"

  1. Exercising Awareness: Maintaining vigilance against social engineering by learning about ways cybercriminals manipulate victims.
  2. Developing Procedures: Having well-documented and rehearsed processes in place to minimize the possibility of human error.
  3. Minimizing The Human Factor: Implementing automation reduces alarm/alert fatigue by letting computers take over repetitive and mundane tasks.

Conclusion

Sometimes it is not the big, flashy things that bring results, but rather the seemingly miniscule yet routine, day-to-day activities that can make or break one's cybersecurity posture. Practicing operations security isn't easy as a one-person job, either. It takes time and effort to integrate solid processes that balance both security and convenience. However, this, combined with your protective assets, will strengthen your castle all the more.

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