As industries accelerate their digital transformation, the conversation around cybersecurity is evolving into a broader focus on digital resilience—the ability to adapt to and recover from disruptions, whether caused by cyberattacks, software failures, or operational mishaps.
Recent events highlight this urgent need. On July 19, CrowdStrike’s faulty update crashed 8.5 million Windows devices, bringing hospitals, airports, and banks to a halt. Earlier this year, Change Healthcare faced a devastating ransomware attack, marking the largest breach in U.S. healthcare history. These incidents reveal not just the risks posed by external threats but also the fragility of our interconnected digital infrastructure.
True resilience goes beyond protecting systems. It requires designing robust, adaptable digital ecosystems that can withstand unexpected failures. This shift in thinking is also redefining accountability. Boards and leadership teams must prioritize resilience, moving beyond traditional cybersecurity strategies to address broader risks to operations and continuity.
Expanding Risk Management
The scope of risk management must also evolve. Organizations have traditionally focused on external threats like ransomware, phishing, and other cyberattacks. But digital resilience broadens the lens to include internal vulnerabilities, such as faulty updates, human errors, and outdated infrastructure. For instance, the CrowdStrike outage demonstrated how even small missteps can cascade into massive disruptions. Resilience demands a more holistic approach that addresses these challenges at their root.
To meet this demand, many organizations are rethinking their governance structures. The role of the CISO is expanding to encompass not just cybersecurity but also operational resilience. Some companies are even introducing Chief Digital Risk Officers to manage enterprise-wide risks, from compliance and data privacy to system reliability. This integrated approach ensures that all aspects of digital risk are accounted for and mitigated effectively.
Building Resilience From the Ground Up
Achieving true digital resilience requires organizations to adopt a proactive, integrated strategy. This includes mapping their digital infrastructure to identify vulnerabilities, implementing robust recovery systems, and leveraging tools like centralized cyber information centers. These hubs consolidate data from IT and cybersecurity tools to provide real-time insights into risks and readiness.
As the conversation evolves, resilience must become a cornerstone of digital strategy. The future of business depends not only on preventing disruptions but also on recovering from them with speed and strength. It’s time for organizations to embrace digital resilience and secure their place in an increasingly volatile world.
Need Help? Talk to a Trusted Advisor
Building digital resilience can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Convergent, our Trusted Advisors specialize in crafting tailored strategies to strengthen your organization’s resilience against disruptions of all kinds. Whether you have questions or need help mapping your digital infrastructure, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact a Trusted Advisor from Convergent today to start building a more resilient future for your business.