Data: The Unifying Force Behind Disparate GRC Functions
In the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, a common thread weaves its way through the seemingly disconnected disciplines of data security, data privacy, and compliance – data. This critical element forms the cornerstone of each function, yet existing solutions often fall short in fostering a holistic approach to data governance and security.
This blog delves into the importance of data as the unifying force behind disparate GRC (Governance, Risk & Compliance) functions. We'll explore how a data-centric approach can overcome the limitations of traditional solutions, paving the way for a more efficient and secure future.
The Expanding Reach of DSPM: Evidence from the Hype Cycle
Gartner's Hype Cycles serve as an insightful snapshot of emerging trends within the cybersecurity landscape. Both the "2024 Hype Cycle for Data Security" and the "2024 Gartner Hype Cycle for Cyber-Risk Management" highlight Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) as a key area of focus. This analyst perspective signifies a significant shift, recognizing DSPM as a discipline, not merely a set of features within existing security solutions. It's a recognition that data security is fundamental to achieving all GRC objectives.
Traditionally, data security has been the domain of security teams and Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs). Data privacy, on the other hand, resides with Chief Data Privacy Officers (CDPUs). Compliance, a separate domain altogether, falls under the responsibility of Chief Compliance Officers (CCOs). This siloed approach often leads to a disjointed view of data security and privacy, creating vulnerabilities and inefficiencies.
Data: The Universal Element
Data, however, transcends these functional boundaries. It's the universal element that binds security, privacy, and compliance together. Regardless of its form – financial records, customer information, intellectual property – securing data forms the foundation of a strong security posture.
Identity, too, plays a crucial role in data security. Understanding user access and behavior is critical for data security and compliance. An effective data security solution will require deep integration with identity management to ensure proper access controls and policy enforcement.
Imagine a Venn diagram formed by the three disciplines: Data Security (CISO), Data Privacy (CDPO), and Compliance (CCO). At the center, where all three circles intersect, lies the critical element – Data. Each function operates within its own domain yet shares ownership of data at its core.
While these functions may seem distinct, the underlying element—data—connects them all. Data is the common thread woven throughout every GRC activity. It's the lifeblood of any organization, and its security and privacy are paramount. We can't talk about securing data without considering privacy, and compliance often hinges on controls that safeguard sensitive data.
For a truly comprehensive approach, organizations need a standardized method for classifying data based on its sensitivity. This common ground allows each GRC function to view and manage data through a shared lens. A unified data discovery and classification layer increases chances for collaboration amongst functions - DSPM provides this.
Existing Solutions Fall Short in a Dynamic Landscape
Traditional GRC solutions often fall short due to their myopic nature. They cater primarily to a single function – data security, data privacy, or compliance – leaving a fragmented landscape.
These solutions also struggle to keep pace with the dynamic nature of data. Data volumes are constantly growing, changing formats, and moving across diverse platforms. Mapping such a dynamic resource can be a nightmare with traditional approaches. Here at Sentra, we've explored this challenge in detail in a previous blog, Understanding Data Movement to Avert Proliferation Risks.
A New Approach: Cloud-Native DSPM for Agility and Scalability
The future of GRC demands a new approach, one that leverages the unifying force of data. Enter cloud-native Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) solutions, specifically designed for scalability and agility. This new breed of platforms offers several key advantages:
- Comprehensive Data Discovery: The platform actively identifies all data across your organization, regardless of location or format. This holistic view provides a solid foundation for understanding and managing your data security posture.
- Consistent Data Classification: With a central platform, data classification becomes a unified process. Sensitive data can be identified and flagged consistently across various functions, ensuring consistent handling.
- Pre-built Integrations: Streamline your workflows with seamless integrations to existing tools across your organization, such as data catalogs, Incident Response (IR) platforms, IT Service Management (ITSM) systems, and compliance management solutions.
Towards a Unified Data Governance and Security Platform
The need for best-of-breed DSPM solutions like Sentra will remain strong to meet the ever-expanding requirements of data security and privacy. However, a future where GRC functionalities are more closely integrated is also emerging.
We're already witnessing a shift in our own customer base, where initial deployments for one specific use case have evolved into broader platform adoption for multiple use cases. Organizations are beginning to recognize the value of a unified platform for data governance and security.
Imagine a future where data officers, application owners, developers, compliance officers, and security teams all utilize a common data governance and security platform. This platform would be built on a foundation of consistent data sensitivity definitions, promoting a shared understanding of data security risks and responsibilities across the entire organization.
This interconnected future is closer than you might think. By embracing the unifying power of data and leveraging cloud-native DSPM solutions, organizations can achieve a more holistic and unified approach to GRC. With data at the center, everyone wins: security, privacy, and compliance all benefit from a more collaborative and data-driven approach.
At Sentra, we believe the inclusion of DSPM in multiple hype cycles signifies the increasing importance of these solutions for security teams worldwide. As DSPM solutions become more integrated into cybersecurity strategies, their impact on enhancing overall security posture is becoming increasingly evident.
Curious about how Sentra can elevate your data security?
Talk to our data security experts and request a demo today.
<blogcta-big>
David Stuart is Senior Director of Product Marketing for Sentra, a leading cloud-native data security platform provider, where he is responsible for product and launch planning, content creation, and analyst relations. Dave is a 20+ year security industry veteran having held product and marketing management positions at industry luminary companies such as Symantec, Sourcefire, Cisco, Tenable, and ZeroFox. Dave holds a BSEE/CS from University of Illinois, and an MBA from Northwestern Kellogg Graduate School of Management.
