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Virtual CISO (vCISO)

An outsourced security practitioner who provides the expertise and leadership of a Chief Information Security Officer on a part-time or project basis.

AbbreviationvCISO
Categorysecurity

Overview

A Virtual CISO (vCISO) provides high-level security strategy and leadership to organizations that do not need or cannot afford a full-time CISO. This model is particularly popular among small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

Responsibilities

  • Security Strategy: Developing a long-term roadmap for security improvements.
  • Risk Management: Identifying and prioritizing organizational risks.
  • Compliance: Ensuring the organization meets regulatory requirements (e.g., HIPAA, SOC 2).
  • Policy Development: Creating and maintaining security policies and procedures.
  • Incident Leadership: Providing guidance during major security incidents.
  • Board Reporting: Communicating security risks and progress to executive leadership.

Benefits

  • Access to senior-level expertise at a fraction of the cost of a full-time hire.
  • Flexibility to scale security leadership as the organization grows.
  • Objective, third-party perspective on security challenges.