Supply Chain Digital Magazine April 2023 | Page 53

Ways to bolster supply chain cybersecurity
SUPPLY CHAIN

Ways to bolster supply chain cybersecurity

Here is some advice around protecting supply chains from Andrew Wood , Engagement Director at Elixirr , the global consulting firm . Wood has a long background in IT procurement .
PREVENTION Prevention is always better than cure . Enlisting a focused cybersecurity service provider that can undertake a robust cyber maturity assessment helps .
BUDGET ASSESSMENT More companies are upping the ante on cybersecurity spending in technology supply contracts , due to the costs that can result from a breach . There must be healthy conversations between CISOs and CFOs about budgets if preventative measures are to be properly supported .
COMPLIANCE Companies must ensure their technology supply agreements include appropriate security compliance provisions that delineate the cybersecurity requirements in which their technology partners need to comply .
COLLABORATION One of the best things is a robust sourcing strategy that embeds diligence around supplier screening as part of the onboarding process . Contractual provisions must also be part of agreements , so that ongoing monitoring of supply chain risk takes place .
PARTNERSHIPS The cybersecurity supplier and solution landscape is crowded , and companies must select partners who reduce the risk of cyberattack on their unique technology footprint .
MANAGING RISK Businesses need to know where they are on the risk spectrum . It ’ s important to understand the varying requirements around robust cybersecurity risk management and governance .
STAY CURRENT The pace of change in technology is unrelenting . Technology-sourcing professionals need to stay up-to-date on their tech knowledge if they are to properly advise CIOs and CFOs on the best cybersecurity investments .
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