Get Tability: OKRs that don't suck | Learn more →

10 strategies and tactics for It Security

What is It Security strategy?

Team success often hinges on the ability to develop and implement effective strategies and tactics. It's a bit like playing chess, except that you have more than 1 player on each side.

Crafting the perfect It Security strategy can feel overwhelming, particularly when you're juggling daily responsibilities. That's why we've put together a collection of examples to spark your inspiration.

Copy these examples into your preferred app, or you can also use Tability to keep yourself accountable.

How to write your own It Security strategy with AI

While we have some examples available, it's likely that you'll have specific scenarios that aren't covered here. You can use our free AI generator below or our more complete goal-setting system to generate your own strategies.

It Security strategy examples

You'll find below a list of It Security tactics. We also included action items for each template to make it more practical and useful.

Strategies and tactics for enhancing Phishing-Resistant Authentication

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA)

    • Use hardware-based MFA tokens for all employees
    • Require biometric authentication where possible
    • Educate employees about the importance of MFA
    • Regularly update and rotate MFA devices and methods
    • Integrate MFA in all critical applications and systems
    • Monitor and audit MFA usage for compliance
    • Ensure backup and recovery options for lost MFA devices
    • Test and update MFA systems against phishing attacks
    • Implement adaptive risk-based MFA
    • Provide user support for MFA-related issues

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Enforce a no BYOD policy

    • Develop and implement a strict no BYOD policy
    • Communicate the policy clearly to all employees
    • Conduct training sessions on the risks of BYOD
    • Deploy company-approved devices with secure configurations
    • Regularly inspect and audit company-issued devices
    • Maintain an inventory log of all approved devices
    • Implement remote wipe capabilities for lost or stolen devices
    • Set up access controls to prohibit non-approved devices
    • Review and update the policy periodically
    • Provide secure alternatives for employees needing flexibility

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Transition to secure remote access solutions

    • Evaluate current VPN infrastructure for security gaps
    • Consider replacing VPN with Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) or similar solutions
    • Ensure end-to-end encryption on all remote access pathways
    • Set up split tunnelling to prevent data leaks
    • Conduct periodic security audits of remote access solutions
    • Implement network access controls for remote users
    • Offer training on secure remote work practices
    • Deploy intrusion detection systems to monitor remote traffic
    • Regularly update software and systems for remote access security
    • Assess user feedback and improve remote access experience
authenticationsecurityit-security-analystnetwork-administratorit-support-teamsecurity-operations-team
Implement these strategies

Strategies and tactics for managing service and admin account through life cycle management

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Implement a clear account creation process

    • Define the roles and responsibilities for service and admin accounts
    • Set up a standard procedure for account requests and approval
    • Ensure proper documentation for all account creation requests
    • Utilise automated tools to create and configure accounts
    • Assign unique IDs and track account ownership
    • Educate staff on account creation policies and procedures
    • Integrate identity and access management solutions
    • Implement role-based access control (RBAC)
    • Perform regular audits of newly created accounts
    • Monitor account creation activity for any anomalies

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Maintain accounts efficiently

    • Regularly review and update account permissions
    • Enforce strong password policies and multifactor authentication
    • Implement automated account provisioning and de-provisioning workflows
    • Enable activity logging and monitoring for all accounts
    • Conduct periodic access reviews and re-certifications
    • Provide training on security best practices for administrators
    • Implement a system for securely handling privileged credentials
    • Use automated tools for configuring and managing service accounts
    • Establish a protocol for handling inactive or unused accounts
    • Integrate account management with other IT and security systems

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Decommission accounts securely

    • Define policies for account deactivation and deletion
    • Implement automated de-provisioning tools
    • Ensure secure backup and archiving of necessary account data
    • Remove or reassign resources and permissions associated with the account
    • Notify relevant stakeholders before decommissioning accounts
    • Conduct a final review and approval process before account deletion
    • Revoke access tokens and certificates linked to the account
    • Document the decommissioning process and maintain audit trails
    • Educate staff on the importance of securely decommissioning accounts
    • Regularly review and update decommissioning policies and procedures
account-lifecyclesecurity-complianceadministratorit-managerit-securitycompliance-team
Implement these strategies

Strategies and tactics for amplifying proactive investigation with broadened log analysis

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Conduct comprehensive log collection

    • Identify key systems and applications for log collection
    • Set up automated log collection mechanisms
    • Ensure logs are timestamped and secured
    • Implement centralised log storage
    • Regularly backup logs to avoid loss of data
    • Encrypt logs to protect sensitive information
    • Monitor log collection processes for completeness
    • Perform regular audits of log collection policies
    • Establish access controls to log data
    • Educate staff on the importance of comprehensive log collection

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Implement advanced log analysis tools

    • Research and select leading log analysis tools
    • Train appropriate staff on the use of these tools
    • Set up automated alert systems for unusual log activity
    • Regularly update log analysis tools to the latest versions
    • Integrate log analysis tools with existing IT infrastructure
    • Develop custom analysis rules tailored to organisational needs
    • Perform regular reviews of log analysis tool configurations
    • Set KPIs to measure the effectiveness of log analysis
    • Create a feedback loop to refine analysis processes
    • Establish a dedicated team for log analysis management

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Establish a proactive investigation framework

    • Define clear procedures for initiating proactive investigations
    • Develop templates for investigation documentation
    • Train staff on investigative techniques and tools
    • Assign dedicated roles for investigation within the security team
    • Implement regular drills and exercises on proactive investigations
    • Utilise log analysis findings to inform investigations
    • Create a system for logging and reviewing past investigations
    • Set up a communication plan for incident response
    • Foster a culture of continuous improvement in investigation processes
    • Regularly review and update the investigation framework
log-collectionlog-analysisit-administratorsecurity-analystit-teamsecurity-team
Implement these strategies

Strategies and tactics for advancing Data Privacy and Security Frameworks for Human-Machine Interface

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Conduct a comprehensive needs assessment

    • Identify and engage key stakeholders within the healthcare sector
    • Conduct surveys and interviews to understand current gaps in data privacy
    • Gather existing data on security breaches in healthcare
    • Analyse current human-machine interface technologies used in healthcare
    • Identify potential threats specific to these technologies
    • Review existing privacy and security regulations pertinent to healthcare
    • Assess the technological capabilities of healthcare providers
    • Explore similar privacy frameworks from other industries for insights
    • Document findings and tailor a specific needs report
    • Set measurable objectives based on the needs assessment

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Develop an advanced security and privacy framework

    • Formulate design principles focusing on patient data protection
    • Develop a framework that is flexible and scalable
    • Integrate advanced cryptography methods
    • Incorporate machine learning algorithms to detect security breaches
    • Design a user-friendly interface for healthcare providers
    • Ensure interoperability with existing healthcare systems
    • Conduct risk assessments to identify framework vulnerabilities
    • Develop compliance guidelines aligned with federal regulations
    • Pilot the framework in a controlled healthcare environment
    • Refine the framework based on feedback from the pilot

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Implement and advocate for widespread adoption

    • Partner with leading healthcare organisations for initial roll-out
    • Develop training programs for healthcare professionals
    • Organise workshops and seminars to demonstrate framework efficacy
    • Create detailed documentation to support implementation
    • Engage with industry influencers to promote the framework
    • Conduct webinars to reach a wider audience
    • Develop metrics to measure the success of framework adoption
    • Establish a continuous feedback loop with users
    • Gather and publicise case studies demonstrating successful implementation
    • Secure endorsements from regulatory bodies and industry leaders
data-privacysecurity-frameworkdata-analystsecurity-specialistit-security-teamhealthcare-providers-team
Implement these strategies

Strategies and tactics for implementing single account just in time access

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Analyse current account management

    • Conduct an audit of current privilege accounts
    • Identify the roles and responsibilities associated with each privilege account
    • Evaluate the use and frequency of each privilege account's access
    • Determine the risks associated with current privilege access
    • Document findings and gaps in privilege account management
    • Engage with stakeholders to understand their access needs
    • Assess current tools and technologies used for access management
    • Benchmark against industry standards and best practices
    • Develop a detailed report of the analysis
    • Present the analysis to decision-makers for approval

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Design the just in time access system

    • Define the requirements for the just in time access system
    • Choose suitable technologies or vendors to implement the system
    • Develop a design blueprint detailing the system architecture
    • Establish policies and protocols for just in time access
    • Create user roles and access levels within the system
    • Design a workflow for access request and approval
    • Integrate audit logs and monitoring tools for security
    • Plan for failover and redundancy measures
    • Conduct a security assessment of the design
    • Obtain sign-off from stakeholders on the system design

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Implement and monitor the new system

    • Set up the technology infrastructure for the system
    • Migrate existing privilege accounts to the new system
    • Train users and administrators on the new access protocols
    • Test the just in time access system in a controlled environment
    • Roll out the system gradually to monitor performance
    • Create a feedback loop to gather user input and concerns
    • Continuously monitor system logs for unusual activities
    • Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance
    • Address any issues or bugs promptly
    • Regularly review security policies and update as necessary
account-managementjust-in-time-accesssystem-administratorsecurity-analystit-departmentsecurity-team
Implement these strategies

Strategies and tactics for providing log analysis workflow notifications for particular sorts of detections using the LogScale dashboard by Q2 2025

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Identify and categorise detection types

    • Review historical log data to identify common detection types
    • Consult with security experts to validate detection types
    • Create a list of detection types to be prioritised
    • Define characteristics and parameters for each detection type
    • Categorise detection types based on severity and frequency
    • Document categorisation criteria for future reference
    • Integrate categorisation into the LogScale dashboard setup
    • Test categorisation process with sample data
    • Refine categorisation based on test results
    • Train team members on the categorisation process

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Configure LogScale dashboard for notifications

    • Access the LogScale dashboard settings for notifications
    • Customise notification settings for each detection type
    • Set up alert thresholds for each detection category
    • Define notification channels (email, SMS, dashboard alerts)
    • Create notification templates for different types of alerts
    • Align notification settings with organisational policies
    • Test notification settings with mock detections
    • Adjust notification configurations based on test feedback
    • Document the notification setup process
    • Schedule regular reviews of the notification settings

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Monitor and optimise notification systems

    • Establish a monitoring schedule for the notifications system
    • Assign team members to oversee notification performance
    • Utilise LogScale dashboard analytics to track notification efficacy
    • Collect feedback from end-users receiving notifications
    • Identify areas for improvement in the notification system
    • Implement enhancements based on collected feedback
    • Regularly update detection criteria to reduce false positives
    • Maintain a log of notification issues and resolutions
    • Provide training sessions on the optimised notification system
    • Set up a system for continuous improvement and updates
log-analysisnotificationssecurity-expertsystem-administratorit-security-teamoperations-team
Implement these strategies

Strategies and tactics for preventing Data Privacy Breaches in an Acute Care Facility

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Implement advanced security technologies

    • Conduct a thorough assessment of current security systems
    • Adopt encryption solutions for data at rest and in transit
    • Install firewalls and intrusion detection systems
    • Regularly update and patch all software systems
    • Deploy multi-factor authentication for all system access
    • Utilise advanced threat detection and monitoring tools
    • Set up a secure network with VPNs for remote access
    • Periodically audit and improve network segmentation
    • Invest in artificial intelligence tools for threat prediction
    • Establish a rapid incident response team

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Enhance staff training and awareness

    • Conduct regular training sessions on data privacy best practices
    • Create a data privacy handbook for all staff
    • Simulate phishing attacks to educate staff on identifying threats
    • Implement a mandatory data privacy certification for staff
    • Regularly update staff on new data privacy regulations
    • Appoint data privacy champions in each department
    • Hold quarterly workshops on cyber hygiene
    • Encourage a culture of accountability and transparency
    • Set up a confidential reporting system for potential breaches
    • Regularly evaluate training effectiveness and adapt as needed

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Strengthen data governance policies and procedures

    • Develop comprehensive data management policies
    • Conduct regular risk assessments and vulnerability analyses
    • Establish a data governance committee
    • Implement strict access controls based on role and necessity
    • Regularly review and update data retention policies
    • Perform third-party vendor assessments for data handling
    • Require signed confidentiality agreements with all data handlers
    • Create a detailed breach response and notification plan
    • Review and categorize data to prioritize protection efforts
    • Audit compliance with national and regional data protection laws
data-privacysecurity-measuresdata-privacy-officerit-security-specialistcybersecurity-teamdata-governance-committee
Implement these strategies

Strategies and tactics for achieving Maturity Level 1 in the Essential Eight

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Implement daily backups

    • Schedule automatic daily backups using reliable software
    • Test backup restoration processes monthly to ensure reliability
    • Store backups in a different physical location from primary data sources
    • Encrypt backup files to secure sensitive information
    • Maintain a log of all backup and restoration activities
    • Limit access to backup systems to authorised personnel only
    • Inform team members about backup procedures and responsibilities
    • Regularly update backup software to the latest version
    • Review and update backup policies annually
    • Ensure cloud-based backups comply with organisational policies

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Harden user application settings

    • Disable unnecessary software features on all user devices
    • Apply security patches to applications within 30 days of release
    • Restrict user ability to install or run unauthorized applications
    • Implement application whitelisting to prevent execution of unknown software
    • Regularly audit applications for vulnerabilities or outdated versions
    • Conduct bi-annual training for employees on application security best practices
    • Monitor application behaviour for anomalies and report incidents
    • Enforce password policies for applications requiring complex credentials
    • Limit access to sensitive applications based on user roles
    • Document and review application security settings quarterly

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Enforce baseline cyber hygiene

    • Install antivirus software on all organisational devices
    • Schedule regular updates for all software to maintain the latest security patches
    • Implement a user education programme focusing on phishing and online threats
    • Restrict administrative privileges based on user needs and responsibilities
    • Conduct security awareness sessions twice a year
    • Establish a protocol for reporting suspicious cyber activity
    • Regularly review access controls to critical systems
    • Use multi-factor authentication for securing access to important accounts
    • Log and monitor all network and system activities continuously
    • Review and update the organisation's cybersecurity policy annually
cybersecurityessential-eightit-managercybersecurity-analystit-supportsecurity-compliance
Implement these strategies

Strategies and tactics for enhancing management of service and admin account life cycles

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Establish clear account management policies

    • Develop a detailed account lifecycle policy
    • Define account creation, modification, and deletion processes
    • Incorporate regular policy reviews and updates
    • Ensure policies comply with industry standards and regulations
    • Train staff on new policies and procedures
    • Implement policy adherence checks and audits
    • Communicate policies clearly to all staff
    • Use templates for account-related documentation
    • Establish an approval workflow for account changes
    • Assign responsibility for policy enforcement

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Implement a robust account management system

    • Select a suitable account management software
    • Set up role-based access controls
    • Enable multi-factor authentication
    • Automate account provisioning and deactivation processes
    • Integrate account management software with existing IT infrastructure
    • Regularly update and patch the system
    • Monitor account activity and generate reports
    • Conduct periodic reviews and audits of accounts
    • Implement alerts for suspicious account activity
    • Provide training for IT staff on system usage and best practices

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Enhance monitoring and auditing practices

    • Establish a schedule for routine account audits
    • Utilise monitoring tools to track account activity
    • Set up automated alerts for unusual account behaviours
    • Maintain logs of account creation, deletion, and modifications
    • Periodically review access levels and permissions
    • Perform regular vulnerability assessments
    • Enforce separation of duties to reduce risks
    • Document all findings and remediation actions
    • Communicate audit results to management and stakeholders
    • Develop an incident response plan for account-related breaches
account-managementsecurity-protocolsit-managercompliance-officerit-departmentcompliance-team
Implement these strategies

Strategies and tactics for developing an AI strategy using TOGAF and cybersecurity controls

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Conduct a maturity assessment

    • Identify key areas of AI implementation within the organization
    • Assess the current level of AI maturity in these areas using a suitable maturity model
    • Gather data on existing AI capabilities and performance metrics
    • Analyze strengths and weaknesses in current AI processes
    • Benchmark against industry standards and best practices
    • Document findings and potential improvement areas
    • Establish a baseline maturity level for AI adoption
    • Identify the required resources for improving AI maturity
    • Formulate a roadmap to enhance AI maturity
    • Communicate findings and the roadmap to stakeholders

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Apply TOGAF architecture principles

    • Review the TOGAF framework and its key components
    • Align AI initiatives with the enterprise architecture vision
    • Define the business, data, application, and technology architecture for AI
    • Ensure AI initiatives support business goals and objectives
    • Identify integration points for AI within existing enterprise architecture
    • Develop architecture principles specific to AI implementation
    • Establish governance structures to manage AI initiatives
    • Design architecture artefacts and deliverables for AI projects
    • Conduct stakeholder engagement to validate the architecture
    • Establish a continuous improvement process for AI architecture

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Integrate cybersecurity controls

    • Identify relevant cybersecurity frameworks and standards for AI systems
    • Assess current cybersecurity posture and vulnerabilities related to AI
    • Establish security policies and procedures specific to AI systems
    • Implement access control measures for AI data and systems
    • Deploy encryption technologies to protect AI data at rest and in transit
    • Establish monitoring systems to detect and respond to security incidents
    • Conduct regular security audits and assessments of AI systems
    • Update incident response plans to include AI-specific scenarios
    • Provide cybersecurity training for personnel working with AI
    • Review and update cybersecurity measures regularly to adapt to new threats
ai-strategycybersecuritytogaf-architectcybersecurity-officerai-development-teamit-security-team
Implement these strategies

How to track your It Security strategies and tactics

Having a plan is one thing, sticking to it is another.

Setting good strategies is only the first challenge. The hard part is to avoid distractions and make sure that you commit to the plan. A simple weekly ritual will greatly increase the chances of success.

A tool like Tability can also help you by combining AI and goal-setting to keep you on track.

More strategies recently published

We have more templates to help you draft your team goals and OKRs.

Planning resources

OKRs are a great way to translate strategies into measurable goals. Here are a list of resources to help you adopt the OKR framework:

Table of contents
Copyright © 2024 Tability