The Changing Face of Information Security: Why It’s Finally Getting the Attention It Deserves

When you think of sexy topics in IT, information security probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. Legacy modernization, AI, and other buzzworthy technologies tend to steal the spotlight. However, the landscape is shifting. More and more CIOs are recognizing the critical importance of security in today’s digital world. As Merritt Baer, CISO at Reco AI, aptly put it, “You can’t do any other form of ‘business’ if you can’t be secure.”

In the past, security was often viewed as an afterthought, something companies regretted not investing more in only after experiencing a costly breach. But that mindset is changing. Conversations with enterprises reveal a growing emphasis on security and a recognition that it should be a top priority.

Security First: Putting Safety at the Forefront

Just like the pre-flight safety message that emphasizes the importance of customer safety, CIOs are now emphasizing the primacy of security. While previous years may have seen other initiatives taking precedence, such as server virtualization and cloud migration, the tide has turned. The sheer volume and persistence of security breaches have forced enterprises to rethink their priorities. In 2021, global security spending dipped, but it has been steadily climbing since then. By 2024, it is predicted to exceed $87 billion.

In a 2022 Morgan Stanley Research CIO survey, security emerged as the top budget item that companies were least likely to cut, even in the face of economic uncertainty. This newfound focus on security underscores a fundamental shift in mindset. As Baer pointed out, if security isn’t a top priority, can you truly claim to be prioritizing anything else effectively?

As the digital landscape continues to evolve and threats become more sophisticated, the importance of information security cannot be overstated. It’s no longer a nice-to-have but a must-have for any organization looking to thrive in an increasingly connected world. So next time you think about where to allocate your IT budget, remember: security first.