Trellix, a cybersecurity company specializing in extended detection and response (XDR), has unveiled its latest endeavor called the Mind of the CISO initiative. This initiative aims to raise global awareness about the specific needs and challenges faced by Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs). Trellix’s efforts include the establishment of a CISO Council, conducting research, and organizing webinars.
The CISO Council by Trellix is founded on the principle of fostering information sharing. Esteemed experts from around the world have been brought together to educate the industry on the hurdles faced by CISOs and the solutions required to bring about change. In addition to participating in Trellix-hosted events worldwide, council members will also contribute insightful content. The inaugural members of the council include prominent individuals such as Ala Asali, Chief Security Officer of Arab National Bank in Saudi Arabia, Ayed (Ed) Sleiman, Head of Special Projects and former CISO of KAUST in the UAE, Ariel Picans, CISO of Banco Delta in Panama, Everett Bates, Chief Information Security Officer of EverView in the U.S., Harold Rivas, CISO of Trellix, Jim Jenkins, Vice President of Information Security and ISO at Vantage West Credit Union in the U.S., Jose Vicente Vidal, Head of Global Security Operations at BBVA in Spain, Rob Labbé, CEO and CISO-in-Residence of Mining and Metals ISAC in Canada, and Shamoun Siddiqui, Chief Information Security Officer of Neiman Marcus Group in the U.S.
Harold Rivas, CISO at Trellix, emphasized the new challenges faced by CISOs due to the rapidly evolving threat landscape, the emergence of AI and other disruptive technologies, and regulatory changes. Rivas stated that collaboration among CISOs is crucial to identify effective strategies for navigating these challenges, as it is one of the most powerful tools available to them as chief defenders.
Trellix’s Mind of the CISO research for 2023 revealed that CISOs encounter several top challenges, including managing an overwhelming number of information sources, adapting to the changing regulatory environment, addressing the expanding attack surface, and coping with the shortage of skilled talent within their teams. Additionally, CISOs must navigate the impact of AI, with cybercriminals leveraging AI to enhance their skills while Security Operations teams benefit from automation and insights. Trellix aims to support CISOs in effectively utilizing their existing tools and shaping future solutions to maintain a balanced playing field between malicious and benevolent actors.
The Mind of the CISO initiative by Trellix underscores the importance of increased engagement and support for CISOs. This new endeavor will provide additional resources and avenues for collaboration between CISOs and key stakeholders within their organizations. Throughout the second half of 2023 and beyond, Trellix plans to organize virtual summits, workshops, and webinars, while also expanding the membership of the CISO Council.
