Iron Bow recently hosted a cybersecurity tabletop exercise (TTX) for executive members of 47G, an ecosystem for Utah based aerospace, defense, and cyber companies to collaborate and fuel innovation in America’s deep tech frontier. The event began with a presentation led by Iron Bow's Tactical Cybersecurity team, followed by a team-based mock incident response exercise. Participants collaborated to handle a simulated cybersecurity incident and shared their strategies and insights in a group share-out session. Pre- and post- surveys were conducted with participants to gather data on their confidence in incident response plans, organizational preparedness, and communication effectiveness during incidents.
Key Findings
- Confidence in incident response plans: Member companies displayed some confidence in their incident response plans and overall preparedness but acknowledged there is significant room for improvement.
- Effectiveness of communication and collaboration: Member companies recognized the need to enhance their communication protocols and collaboration frameworks, identifying significant areas for improvement.
- Understanding the value of tabletop exercises (TTXs): Participants saw value in executing regular TTXs and rated the overall event format and experience positively, underscoring the importance of these exercises in improving preparedness and coordination.
A deeper dive of survey results and key findings is presented below.
Confidence in Incident Response Plans
Survey responses indicated a moderate level of confidence in the effectiveness of incident response plans. With a mean score of 3.74, it is clear that while some confidence exists, there is significant room for improvement. The mode of 3 suggests a common perception of moderate confidence among participants.
Key Takeaway: Continuous refinement and regular testing of incident response plans can help bolster confidence across the organization, ensuring alignment with current threats and vulnerabilities.
Organizational Preparedness for Cybersecurity Incidents
Participants rated their organization's preparedness for handling cybersecurity incidents with a mean score of 3.63. This suggests a moderate level of preparedness, with some notable gaps. The mode score of 2 highlights that several respondents feel inadequately prepared.
Key Takeaway: Regular incident response drills and simulations are crucial to identify and address weaknesses, ensuring the organization remains resilient against potential cyber threats.
Effectiveness of Communication and Collaboration
The survey revealed variability in the perceived effectiveness of communication and collaboration during incidents, with a mean score of 3.58. The mode score of 2 indicates that many respondents see significant room for improvement in this area.
Key Takeaway: Enhancing communication protocols and collaboration frameworks can streamline information sharing and decision-making during incidents, fostering a more coordinated response effort.
Understanding the Value of Tabletop Exercises
Participants showed high confidence in understanding the value of regular TTXs, with a mean score of 5.05. This high level of confidence underscores the perceived benefits of these exercises in improving preparedness and coordination.
Key Takeaway: Leveraging the positive perception of TTXs can reinforce their importance as a proactive measure in cybersecurity strategy, encouraging regular participation and investment in these exercises.
Overall Experience and Future Implications
The overall experience of the TTX was rated very positively, with a mean score of 5.68. This high satisfaction level highlights the effectiveness of the exercise in achieving its objectives and enhancing team readiness.
Key Takeaway: The positive feedback from participants underscores the value of TTXs in strengthening organizational cybersecurity. Promoting ongoing participation in TTXs can ensure continuous improvement and readiness in the face of evolving cyber threats.
The findings from this cybersecurity tabletop exercise highlight the critical need for organizations to continuously assess and enhance their incident response plans, preparedness, and communication protocols. Regular tabletop exercises (TTXs) are invaluable in identifying strengths and addressing gaps in cybersecurity practices. To ensure your organization is well-prepared to handle cybersecurity incidents effectively, consider partnering with Iron Bow. Our tactical team's expertise in conducting TTXs can provide your staff with the necessary insights and strategies to fortify your cybersecurity posture.
Reach out to Iron Bow today to set up a TTX and take a proactive step toward securing your organization's digital future. Contact Us.
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