Enterprise IT vendors IBM and Microsoft announced their new initiatives to control cyber security issues.
IBM says the IBM Industrial Controls Cybersecurity Consulting service is designed to help companies apply the Framework to baseline and improve their security maturity, prioritize security investments and resources, and protect themselves from cyber risks to infrastructure and elements necessary for critical operations and networks.
Moreover, IBM security consultants will educate clients and offer recommendations for improvements as well as a roadmap for improving capabilities and reducing risk.
These new IT initiatives are aimed at industries such as financial services, retail companies, power facilities, electrical grids, industrial manufacturing operations and others.
Kris Lovejoy, general manager of IBM Security Services, said: “If organizations take the steps outlined in the Framework, they’ll be better positioned to protect themselves and their practices. IBM can help its clients adopt these best practices now – and to distinguish themselves as an industry leader in security.”
Meanwhile, Microsoft announced three new global partnerships with the Organization of American States, Europol and FIS to increase cooperation between international law enforcement and the private sector in combatting cybercrime and helping build a safer Internet.
Microsoft, the OAS, Europol and FIS anticipate that the collaboration will enable them to strengthen their forensic and technical analysis of malware and botnets; assessment and investigation of emerging malware threats; enforcement actions against cybercriminals; and the ultimate dismantling of these criminal organizations.
“Cybercriminals are increasingly sophisticated in preying on consumers, including children and senior citizens,” said Brad Smith, Microsoft executive vice president and general counsel. “These agreements will help the private and public sectors fight cybercrime more effectively, while protecting our customers’ privacy.”
Microsoft is excited to mark its first collaboration with the Organization of American States. The OAS was established in part to strengthen collaboration among its member states, which currently includes all 34 independent states of the Americas. OAS is committed to developing a culture of cybersecurity by taking effective, preventative measures to anticipate, address and respond to cyberattacks.
“There are no borders when it comes to cybercrime, and the criminals are located worldwide, making it impossible for any one organization to fight cybercrime alone,” said OAS Ambassador Adam Blackwell. “We must harness the power of partnerships to have a greater impact against these criminals and keep the Internet safer for everyone.”
