Every week, Casey Cammilleri interviews an expert who is in charge of empowering security experts and practitioners with the knowledge and insights needed to excel in the future of cybersecurity.

In our latest edition, we dive into our interview with cybersecurity leader and expert, Arif Basha. Here are the top takeaways from the interview.

#1: Opt for Consistency Over Complexity Using Cybersecurity Basics

“The hardest part, most of the vulnerabilities, most of the breaches, they're not using deepfake. They're all using just foundational tech. Just making sure you have proper controls in place, good hygiene, good culture in companies. And I have been doing this for — in tech, about 20 years; in cyber, for more than 15 years — we've been talking about the same topics.

“If you look at the team, they're common. Over the last 20 years, same thing. Patching systems on time, harden your systems, don't publish unnecessary services and misconfigs. Same things. It gets boring after that. And that's also boring. That's why nobody wants to do that work.”

Actionable Takeaway: Most security breaches exploit basic vulnerabilities, not advanced technology. Prioritizing strong controls, regular system patching, and a secure company culture is essential. Though often overlooked as “boring,” these foundational practices remain the backbone of effective cybersecurity and safeguard against the most common threats.

#2: Integrate Legal and Communication Teams in Cybersecurity Strategy

“We partner with folks in the legal and our privacy teams. They should be part of the conversation. And the last part of that is also communication, which I would say, as part of our tabletop exercises, we make sure we have proper communication templates documented, published internally, externally, for external communications, for investors, press.

“So that will save us a lot of headache. They're like having suspenders. If you need to use them, you won't crash, and at least you can use that parachute and fly to hopefully some safe zone.”

Actionable Takeaway: Including legal, privacy, and communication teams in cybersecurity planning strengthens resilience. Documenting communication protocols for investors and press ensures readiness during incidents, much like “suspenders and a parachute.” Proactive cross-functional preparation reduces stress and enhances coordinated responses when challenges arise.


#3: Elevate Cybersecurity Awareness at the Board Level

“Everyone has a story about cybersecurity, so boards are becoming more aware of it. We still have a long way to go to add the right folks to the board mix to security, but there has been a much broader attempt. I have seen the industry to seek out security folks to add to boards both for profit and nonprofit.

“So they are hearing that when they talk among themselves or their own sources, so they are asking questions, what is our situation? And I also worked at places where they just want you to take the problem away. But increasingly that has been less and less so people are curious to see where we stand.”

Actionable Takeaway: As cybersecurity awareness grows among board members, there’s a rising demand for security experts in boardroom discussions. Boards are asking more insightful questions, moving beyond “just fix it” to actively understanding security posture. Adding security voices to the board strengthens oversight and strategic decision-making.

Listen to full episodes out now

For more information about Ahead of the Breach, please visit www.sprocketsecurity.com/aob-podcast. Episodes are available on all major podcast platforms.

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We look forward to bringing you more conversations with actionable insights that help in your pursuit to protect your most valuable assets — and help clients do the same!