Outsource Strategy

This page outlines the strategic allocation of responsibilities within a Information Security Center (ISC) by outsourcing key functions. Given the allowance for a small team, outsourcing critical tasks can ensure comprehensive security coverage without overburdening internal staff.

Vulnerability Scanning and Penetration Testing should be outsourced to specialized security firms to conduct regular assessments and simulated attacks, ensuring network and application security. Security Awareness and Training can be handled by training providers to deliver customized programs and phishing simulations, enhancing employee readiness against cyber threats.

Managed Security Services (MSS) offer 24/7 monitoring and incident response support, leveraging external expertise for continuous protection.

Threat Intelligence outsourcing provides actionable insights from specialized providers, integrating threat data with SIEM systems for enhanced detection. Finally, Compliance and Audit functions can be managed by third-party auditors to ensure adherence to cybersecurity regulations and standards through regular assessments and audits.

1. Vulnerability Scanning and Penetration Testing

What to Outsource:

• Regular Vulnerability Scanning: Conducted using tools to identify potential vulnerabilities in the network and applications.

• Penetration Testing: Simulated attacks to assess the security posture and identify weaknesses.

How to Outsource:

• Hire Specialized Security Firms: Engage reputable cybersecurity firms specializing in vulnerability assessments and penetration testing.

• Service-Level Agreements (SLAs): Ensure clear SLAs are in place to define the scope, frequency, and expected deliverables.

• Regular Reports and Follow-Ups: Schedule regular reports and follow-up meetings to discuss findings and remediation strategies.

2. Security Awareness and Training

What to Outsource:

• Employee Training Programs: Conducting regular security awareness training sessions for employees.

• Phishing Simulation: Running simulated phishing campaigns to test and improve employee awareness.

How to Outsource:

• Engage Training Providers: Partner with companies specializing in cybersecurity training and awareness programs (e.g., KnowBe4, SANS Security Awareness).

• Customized Training Modules: Work with the provider to customize training modules based on the specific needs and threats faced by your organization.

• Regular Assessments: Conduct regular assessments to gauge the effectiveness of the training programs.

3. Managed Security Services (MSS)

What to Outsource:

• 24/7 Security Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of security events and incidents.

• Incident Response Support: Assistance in managing and responding to security incidents.

How to Outsource:

• Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs): Partner with MSSPs that offer comprehensive monitoring and incident response services.

• Clear SLAs: Define SLAs to ensure timely detection and response to security incidents.

• Integration and Coordination: Ensure proper integration of MSSP services with your internal security tools and processes.

4. Threat Intelligence

What to Outsource:

• Threat Intelligence Gathering and Analysis: Collecting and analyzing threat intelligence data to stay ahead of emerging threats.

How to Outsource:

• Threat Intelligence Providers: Partner with companies specializing in threat intelligence (e.g., Recorded Future, FireEye).

• Subscription Services: Subscribe to threat intelligence feeds and reports that provide actionable insights.

• Integration with SIEM: Integrate threat intelligence feeds with your SIEM system for enhanced threat detection and response.

5. Compliance and Audit

What to Outsource:

• Compliance Assessments: Regular assessments to ensure compliance with relevant cybersecurity regulations and standards.

• Security Audits: Periodic security audits to evaluate the effectiveness of security controls.

How to Outsource:

• Third-Party Auditors: Engage reputable auditing firms specializing in cybersecurity compliance and audits.

• Defined Scope and Objectives: Clearly define the scope and objectives of the assessments and audits.

• Regular Reviews: Schedule regular reviews to discuss findings and implement necessary improvements.