Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)Information Security GovernanceMedium
A CISO is tasked with improving the information security culture within an organization where employees frequently bypass security controls for convenience. To effectively address this, the CISO decides to implement a security champion program. Which of the following is the MOST important outcome the CISO should aim for with this program?
- ATo create a network of trusted individuals who can promote security awareness and best practices from within their teams.
- BTo establish a formal reporting structure for all security incidents directly to the CISO.
- CTo identify and penalize employees who consistently violate security policies.
- DTo offload security responsibilities from the security team to departmental staff.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. To create a network of trusted individuals who can promote security awareness and best practices from within their teams.
The primary goal of a security champion program is to leverage internal advocates to foster a positive security culture. These champions act as trusted peers, promoting security awareness and best practices, thereby changing behaviors more effectively than top-down mandates.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Incident reporting is important but is a separate function from the primary objective of cultural change via champions.
- C. While accountability is necessary, the main goal of a champion program is positive reinforcement and cultural influence, not punitive measures.
- D. While champions assist, the program is not meant to replace the security team's core responsibilities.
Security Champion Program
A program that identifies and empowers employees from various departments to act as advocates and resources for information security within their respective teams.
- Fosters a positive security culture.
- Provides localized security expertise.
- Improves security awareness and adoption of best practices.
Memory trick: Champions spread the security word from within.