The rise of Software as a Service (SaaS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionised the way businesses operate. These technologies offer immense growth potential, from increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness to improved customer experiences. However, with this growth comes a crucial responsibility – safeguarding your data. 

A simple tick-the-box approach to cybersecurity is simply not enough. It is more than a policy document. Building a cyber-resilient organisation requires a proactive, three-pronged balance that addresses people, processes, and technology. The following image illustrates this example how PPT framework puts three pillars together. 

The Benefits and Challenges of the Digital Landscape

SMEs are embracing SaaS and AI for numerous reasons. These solutions offer:

• Increased Efficiency and Easy Access: Employees can access applications anytime, anywhere, boosting collaboration and productivity.
• Cost-Effectiveness and Scalability: SaaS eliminates upfront hardware and software costs, allowing businesses to scale their solutions as needed.
• Improved Experiences: Both staff and customers benefit from more streamlined processes and personalised experiences.

However, alongside these benefits lie critical cybersecurity challenges:

• Expanded Attack Surface: The use of SaaS introduces new risks and sometimes security vulnerabilities where SaaS solutions haven’t followed secure by design approach. Implementing assurance processes that verify a provider’s security posture is crucial.
• Interconnected Systems: The interconnected nature of these solutions creates a wider area for attackers to exploit. Secure communication, storage and access controls are essential.
• Managing Access and Permissions: Granting access within the SaaS environment and across interconnected systems can be complex.
• Limited Visibility: With data residing in the cloud, a clear understanding of security practices by the cloud provider is vital. Don’t be afraid to ask questions before onboarding critical data.
• AI-Specific Concerns: Data security takes on new dimensions with AI. Bias in algorithms, data manipulation for malicious purposes, and the potential misuse of AI need careful consideration.

Building a Secure Digital Strategy

Securing your business in the SaaS and AI era demands a holistic approach. Here are key considerations:

• Shared Responsibility: Both SaaS providers and businesses have a role to play. Security should be a priority during the selection process and throughout the lifecycle of a SaaS solution. While checklists can help, a more comprehensive approach is needed. Consider partnering with local cybersecurity experts – their expertise can save you time, money, and, potentially, your reputation.
• Balancing Security and Growth: SMEs can prioritise high-impact security measures aligned with their digital initiatives. For instance, combining security frameworks like Cyber Essentials Plus certification with regular security assessments can maximise security benefits and minimise costs.
• Employee Education and Training: The human element remains critical. Regular training that goes beyond passive learning is essential. Make it interactive, encourage interaction, and create a culture where employees feel empowered to ask questions and report suspicious activity.
• Building Long-Term Resilience: The NCSC’s 10 Steps to Cyber Security is a fantastic first step for SMEs. To mature your security posture, consider continuous security assessments using CREST penetration testing services, security architecture and design feedback from third-party consultants and data-driven investment decisions to ensure your strategy adapts to the evolving technology landscape.

SMEs can leverage the power of SaaS and AI to achieve sustainable growth while protecting their most valuable asset – their data. Remember, security is an ongoing journey, not a destination. Embrace continuous improvement and investment in building a proactive approach to ensure security is an enabler for growth within your organisation.