Ditch data overload: Why clarity matters in cyber security reports

The danger of data overload

A common issue in cyber security reporting is the deluge of raw data with which teams must contend.

It’s not uncommon for a security operations centre (SOC) to be handling thousands of security alerts daily. Consider the number of logs and alerts produced by systems like Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), threat intelligence feeds, or endpoint protection.

It’s a daily deluge of data that can quickly overwhelm internal teams. Bombarded by alerts that make it hard to distinguish critical threats from false positives. Wasting time and resources that were already in scarce supply.

Furthermore, we often encounter teams who lack the in-house expertise and advanced security tools needed. A situation that makes it almost impossible to correlate data from multiple sources. Creating blind spots and fragmenting the view of the security landscape.

All of which leads to a mountain of metrics and data, that of themselves offer little to no value.

Context is king: Turning data into meaningful analysis

You see, the true value you get from the data you receive comes from the way it’s interpreted.

Data needs context to enable smarter decisions. It ensures your team isn’t just reacting to every alert but responding strategically. Evolving your security stance from firefighting to proactive risk management.

For instance, metrics like blocked phishing attempts or detected malware are useful indicators.

Without context, however, do you really know the full story?

• How does that number compare to industry or historical averages?
• What level of sophistication were the blocked attacks?
• Does this number include false positives?
• What impact on the business have they had? E.g., downtimes?

We know that cyber threats are persistent, permeable, and potent. So being able to differentiate between noise and genuine threats can be critical in both response speed and making the right calls at the right time.

And providing the right information to the right people in the organisation.

Turning noise into narrative

Anyone can offer a suite of reports and dashboards. The best MSSPs offer a blend of information, action, and advice that proactively keeps your organisation on the front foot.

Such as:

Advanced analytics and machine learning

An effective MSSP uses analytics and advanced technologies like generative AI  to efficiently identify potential threats from vast data, allowing them to focus on true threats and reduce false positives.

Customisation and relevance

Every organisation is different. A proficient MSSP tailors dashboards and reports to meet specific needs, ensuring data relevance tailored to different audiences.

Integration across platforms

A robust MSSP combines data from different sources and diverse parts of the digital estate. Providing a unified security standpoint, helping to correlate information and reduce complexity.

Expert interpretation and strategic advice

More than just data, top-tier MSSPs provide expert analysis and strategic insights, turning raw data into narratives that support smart decision-making and highlight emerging threats.

Continuous improvement and learning

Exceptional MSSPs continuously refine their reports based on feedback and evolving threats, keeping the information relevant and insightful, which helps organisations stay proactive against threats.

Stories to satisfy every stakeholder

Of course, within the organisation you’ll have different stakeholders with varying requirements and expectations from the reports they receive. Something MSSPs need to consider when running reports and delivering dashboards.

And herein lies a challenge.

Naturally, your technical teams would expect to see the detail. To lean into granular data, real-time alerts, comprehensive logs, and key metrics across the estate.

These are the reports that identify threats, enable swift responses, and demonstrate the actions taken to maintain a healthy security posture.

But for your C-level executives, the story needs a different tone.

Articulating risk to the C-suite

What’s going to really resonate with senior executives focused on strategy, finance, or commercial growth?

Report on the prevention of ‘zero-day exploits’ or ‘SQL injection attacks’ and you risk a polite nod or shrug of the shoulders.

But what if you highlight the business impacts, like exposing customer data or the risk of compliance penalties?

They’re more likely to sit up, take notice, and act.

Executives need strategic insights to understand the broader risks and its impact on business objectives.

Reports need simply presented executive summaries that highlight key performance indicators (KPIs), trends, and potential business impacts. It’s about presenting security posture in a way that matters to them.

Enabling data-driven decision-making and more strategic security investments.

Building investor confidence

Clear, transparent reporting can enhance investor confidence and attract future investment.

We all know how much cyber security can impact long-term reputation and financial health. For investors, security posture and cyber risk assessments are primary benchmarks in deciding where to put their money.

This is the value of accurate reporting that offers clarity on your compliance, incident response capabilities, and overall security posture. It’s a transparent demonstration of your due diligence and evidence on how serious you are about security.

Clear reporting that elevates security posture, reputation, and trust

We can’t overstate the importance of clear, contextual reporting in your cyber security strategy. Not only in providing an overview of your security posture but offering insight that actively enhances it.

Not to mention the way in which they offer clear evidence of your commitment to maintaining high security standards and protecting sensitive information. Integral to fostering trust and enhancing your reputation in the eyes of customers and investors alike.

Yes, of course, achieving this is a challenge. Especially when organisations increasingly rely on teams who are time, resource, and cash starved.

Which is where the help of a trusted security partner should pay dividends. Not just ‘stepping into the breach’ but offering the tech, analysis, and talent to actively prevent those breaches.

And providing your decision-makers with the clarity and insight they need to make the right choices for asset protection and growth.

Key takeaways

Next steps

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