The plethora of data breaches in the past 24 months is startling and fear-provoking for many IT professionals. Financial institutions, federal markets, and even the security industry itself have been hacked.

The health care industry seems to have a statistically disproportionate share of breaches. Perhaps that is simply because the industry, by necessity, has a lot more personal information on file than other segments and presents a bigger target. 

More worrisome are things like the reported weaknesses in the renowned RC4 encryption algorithm widely implemented in protocols like SSL, TLS, and wireless security. Initially the proposed weaknesses were deemed theoretical possibilities but are now considered genuine threats. In addition, there is no single security solution on the horizon, as the specifics of each situation may dictate unique requirements. So how does an IT manager cope?

The best answer is usually the simplest. In this case, seek help – and don’t be shy about asking for it. Even the great Albert Einstein needed assistance in developing the field equations required for his general theory of relativity. Fortunately, he knew where to turn for help and advice. He contacted Marcel Grossmann, a renowned mathematician and classmate from his university days, and they collaborated on the equations.

Today’s security attacks may not be as mathematically challenging as the theory of general relativity, but the defensive shields are still very complex to construct and maintain.  Realistically, individual organizations just do not have the resources to go it alone,  particularly with state-sponsored attacks so prevalent. Collaboration is essential for today’s IT managers to be able to identify and combat these threats. Time is a major factor, so getting your program in place ASAP is critical.

A common sports axiom: “The best defense is a good offense” is exactly right for this situation. Your collaboration team must defeat some of the world’s best cyber thieves.  Be proactive, and get started now before being attacked and put on the defensive. 

You need to build your team strength quickly and efficiently. This is where TMC’s (News - Alert) Online Community editorial platform can blaze a path for you. The program is perfect for putting together a consortium of partners looking to work together to protect their individual organizations. Large and small organizations can all reap the benefits and share the costs proportionately. Visit http://www.tmcnet.com/community/ and get started today.

Max Schroeder (News - Alert) is vice president emeritus of FaxCore Inc. (www.faxcore.com). Rich Tehrani is the CEO and group editor-in-chief at TMC, and conference chairman of ITEXPO (News - Alert).