In the contemporary digital landscape, where cyber threats pose a substantial risk, Watermark stands as a beacon of security. Recognizing the paramount importance of safeguarding sensitive information, intellectual property, and financial assets, Watermark has adopted a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. With the average cost of a cyber breach exceeding $4.45 million, cybersecurity is not just a technical concern for Watermark—it’s a strategic imperative for protecting residents and ensuring operational resilience.
Watermark aligns its cybersecurity initiatives with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework, a guideline assisting organizations in assessing their current cybersecurity posture, establishing goals, and developing a road map for improvement. The framework comprises five functions: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover.
Key Highlights of Watermark’s Cybersecurity Approach:
- Business Asset Protection: Watermark’s cybersecurity measures extend beyond safeguarding assets; they ensure business continuity and contribute to preserving the organization’s reputation.
- Regulatory Compliance: Committed to corporate responsibility, Watermark’s framework mitigates legal and financial risks, demonstrating dedication to both residents and regulatory standards.
- Financial Stewardship: Acknowledging the staggering financial consequences of data breaches, Watermark’s protocols prevent costly breaches, legal liabilities, and fines, enhancing stakeholder confidence.
- Competitive Advantage: Watermark’s commitment to cybersecurity becomes a competitive advantage, attracting stakeholders prioritizing the safety and security of community and resident information.
- Brand and Reputation Management: Preserving Watermark’s strong brand is paramount in the cybersecurity strategy, ensuring customer trust and loyalty remain intact.
- Operational Integrity: Watermark’s cybersecurity measures go beyond the digital realm, ensuring uninterrupted operations, minimizing downtime, and associated losses.
- Strategic and Informed Decision-Making: Effective cybersecurity enables confident data-driven decision-making, supporting innovation and business growth.
- Employee Well-Being: Creating a secure work environment demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being, fostering a secure atmosphere that enhances productivity and morale.
Watermark’s Cybersecurity Plan Framework in Action:
- Identify: Conducting a thorough review of assets, risks, and vulnerabilities to establish a foundation for effective cybersecurity management.
- Protect: Focusing on implementing safeguards, including access control, data encryption, and comprehensive security awareness training.
- Detect: Employing continuous monitoring, intrusion detection, and security event analysis for prompt identification of cybersecurity incidents.
- Respond: Following a robust incident response plan to mitigate the impact of cybersecurity incidents promptly.
- Recover: Emphasizing the restoration of services and systems to normal operation post-cybersecurity incident, with a focus on continuous improvement.
Watermark’s Cybersecurity Initiatives in Action:
- Network and Third-Party Security: Employing advanced management systems and stringent third-party access policies.
- Regular Audits and Scans: Proactive engagement with penetration testing and vulnerability scanning.
- Advanced Threat Protection: Utilization of next-generation firewalls and cutting-edge threat intelligence services.
- Employee Empowerment: Comprehensive training programs for staff to recognize and respond to potential threats.
- Data Security: Implementation of encryption and geolocation protection for information security.
Watermark’s cybersecurity strategy goes beyond technical measures; it’s a comprehensive commitment to trust, integrity, and the well-being of its communities. In this evolving digital landscape, Watermark stands strong, ensuring the safety and security of its senior living residents.