In today’s digital landscape, data is one of your organisation’s most critical, and vulnerable assets. From sensitive board papers to confidential client information, these digital resources hold immense value. Yet, many leadership teams and boards overlook the growing cyber threats that put this data at risk.

Cybersecurity is no longer just a technical issue for IT teams – it’s a governance priority that starts at the board level. So, what practical steps can boards take to secure their organisation’s most sensitive information?

Strategies to safeguard your organisation’s digital assets

1. Prioritise cybersecurity at the leadership level

Cybersecurity awareness and action must begin with leadership. When board members and senior leaders set the tone on security, it encourages a culture of vigilance across the organisation.

Key actions to take:

• Make cybersecurity a standing boardroom agenda item.
• Model best practices, such as secure password management and cautious device use.
• Promote a company-wide security mindset, making it clear that protecting data is everyone’s responsibility.

Boards must ask the right questions: Are we using secure platforms for board communications? How are we managing access to sensitive documents? Are we prepared for a cyber incident?

2. Invest in ongoing cybersecurity education and training

Even with advanced security tools, human error remains a leading cause of data breaches — accounting for around 95% of cases, according to recent studies.

Boards and executives should ensure regular training and education, including:

• Workshops on phishing, password security, and secure communications.
• Clear policies for handling and storing sensitive data.
• Simulated cyber-attack exercises to prepare for real-life scenarios.

Keeping everyone informed and vigilant is a vital line of defence.

3. Use secure board management software

Surprisingly, many boards still share confidential materials via email or unsecured folders — practices that leave organisations vulnerable to attack.

Choosing a secure board management system, like Stellar, offers a smarter and safer way to manage sensitive documents and communications.

With Stellar, you can:

• Encrypt all board materials and messages.
• Control access, ensuring only approved members see specific documents.
• Monitor document activity, providing transparency and accountability.

Learn more about Stellar’s board management packages here.

4. Plan for incidents before they happen

No organisation is immune to cyber threats. The key is being prepared to respond swiftly and effectively.

Steps to take:

• Develop a comprehensive incident response plan that clearly outlines the roles of leadership and board members.
• Review and update security policies regularly to adapt to evolving threats.
• Ensure the board understands breach response protocols, including reporting obligations and communications.

According to Statista, in 2024 it took an average of 194 days to detect a data breach — a figure that highlights the need for readiness.

Final Thoughts: Why Cybersecurity is a Board Issue

Protecting digital assets should be a top priority for boards and leadership teams. As cyber risks become more sophisticated, organisations must go beyond IT fixes and embrace a holistic, governance-driven approach to security. Boards and leaders must make cybersecurity a board-level priority, educate both leadership and staff, use trusted tools and prepare for worst-case scenarios. Building a security-first culture from the top down is essential to protecting both your data and your organisation’s reputation.

Want to see how Stellar can help protect your board’s data? Book a free demo here.