INDUSTRY: PHARMACEUTICAL
Key Challenges
- Reactive ASM programme
- Lack of regulatory compliance
- Regular business disruptions
Solution
- Implementation of robust security measures
- Documented compliance management
- Strategies for minimising disruption
Business Benefit
- Safeguard against cyber threats, preventing data breaches, financial losses and reputation
- Safeguarding innovative research & development efforts
- Ensuring compliance with regulations such as HIPPA & GDPR
Problem Statement
A key pharmaceutical client was looking to improve its Attack Surface Management after a recent cyber security event. The complex cloud technology infrastructure used by the client to support global business operations was an area of critical risk, which required proactive and preventive security measures to minimise business downtime.
Key Challenges
The technology function did not have a comprehensive ASM programme in place to ascertain the security posture of its internet facing cloud infrastructure.
The business was struggling with intermittent IT downtime, because of multiple cyber events impacting global operations.
The client was also looking to minimise reputational damage and show compliance with regulatory requirements.
THE SOLUTION
IMPLEMENTING ROBUST SECURITY MEASURES
Establishing a persistent ASM programme across the organisation to ensure all internet facing assets are part of monthly scans and annual deep gray box testing. Deployment of advanced security measures, including firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and encryption. Educated employees on the importance of IP protection and the risks associated with cyber threats.
COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT
Ensured that cybersecurity practices were aligned with industry-specific regulations and all findings were reported to senior management in monthly meetings. A regular risk assessment process was established to identify areas of non-compliance, document mitigating actions and provide status update of key risks. Implementation of robust data protection measures, including multi-factor authentication and access controls, to safeguard patient data and maintain compliance with privacy regulations.
MINIMISING BUSINESS DISRUPTIONS
Adoption of international standards to manage security & compliance of all IT operations in the company. Ensuring regular continuity and recovery exercises were part of organisation’s overall crisis management programme. Regular cyber hygiene assessment of companies’ critical assets and processes by an independent external auditor. Lastly, ensuring business was supported by cyber insurance to protect and provide financial cover in case of potential cyber disruptions as a result of malicious cyber-attacks.
Business Benefit
- Mitigating security risks through VAPT contributed to the protection of sensitive information, such as intellectual property, research data, and patient records. This, in turn, helped maintain the company's reputation and instills trust among stakeholders, including patients, investors, and regulatory bodies.
- Compliance with regulations such as Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), HIPAA, and GDPR. Compliance failures can result in severe legal consequences and damage to the company's reputation. By conducting VAPT regularly, pharmaceutical companies can demonstrate due diligence in safeguarding sensitive data and meeting regulatory cybersecurity requirements.
- Prevent disruptions, tampering, or counterfeiting in the supply chain, thereby safeguarding patient safety and maintaining the company's commitment to quality.
- Enhanced business resilience by addressing internal and external risks, including those associated with vendors.
- Defined risk levels, aiding in the development of a robust cybersecurity strategy, ensuring system reliability, and meeting industry standards and regulatory compliance.
- Detection and addressing of vulnerabilities before they can be exploited reduced likelihood of successful cyberattacks. This proactive approach will lead to cost savings in incidence response, legal fees, and potential fines associated with data breaches.
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