In our digital world, cybersecurity has become at the forefront of keeping our information safe and protected from hacks and leaks. As marketers, we may ask what does cybersecurity have to do with our careers? While a direct connection between cybersecurity and marketing may not come to mind, marketing departments can and often do pose as the largest targets for cybersecurity hacks. Because of the proximity to consumer and company information, hackers may see this as prime real estate to launch a cyber attack.
Personalized marketing has become more relevant than ever to communicate with consumers and clients–and this also means there are hoards of customer information that are used to create these communications. According to Forbes, 85% of consumers want more companies that can be trusted with their data. This is a huge number considering just how much marketers are able to find out about a person`s online identity from looking at searches, clicked-on ads, their algorithm, and other online activity. 
Cybersecurity attacks on marketing departments can also extend past what we may think of as traditional hacking. Security can be compromised at any position when working with outside systems or vendors and has the potential to occur internally. Additionally, mergers and acquisitions can present opportunities for mishandled information during the transition process or simply falling into misplaced departments and files.
As marketers, cybersecurity and organizational culture should be established among not only your team, but in collaboration with IT or any other support, you may use. To start implementing some easy cybersecurity practices, consider the following for your marketing team:
- Passwords should be updated regularly
- Communicate what data the organization has and where it is stored
- Discuss ways a cybersecurity breach can be prevented and what to do if one occurs
- Cybersecurity practice training across the team on different tactics such as phishing
- Be aware of shared networks, especially if working remotely
- Don`t collect more information than necessary
Brand trust and loyalty are vital relationships marketers aim to develop with consumers over time. This can break in as little as seconds if cybersecurity is weak. Ensuring that preventative measures are in place not only keeps consumer or internal information safe, but it upholds a brand reputation as one that consumers can trust.
As a marketer, ensuring strong cybersecurity efforts can also become a part of brand identity. For example, in realms such as finance, tough security for client information is everything. If a firm uses vigilant practices to keep client information safe, this could factor into marketing efforts and why clients should choose your services.
The most effective way to stop a cyberattack is to build team awareness and implement initiatives that address and end attacks as soon as possible. To learn more about cybersecurity for both business and personal devices visit the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.
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