New virtual security service launched to strengthen cyber resilience

The Cyber and Fraud Centre Scotland has launched a new virtual chief information security officer in response to demand.

The vCISO service is designed to provide organisations across the country with senior-level cyber security leadership without the cost or commitment of a full-time hire. 

The service has been developed in response to growing demand from organisations seeking deeper, more strategic cyber security support amid what the Cyber and Fraud Centre called a “rapidly evolving threat landscape”. 

 Jude McCorry, chief executive of Cyber and Fraud Centre Scotland, said: “We developed the vCISO service in direct response to feedback from clients who need strategic direction and expert guidance, but may not require – or be able to justify – a full-time CISO or traditional retainer model.

“Many organisations prefer a more flexible, project-based approach with clearly defined deliverables.”  

 The vCISO service offers flexible monthly, quarterly, and annual engagement options, with pricing based on the level of support required and the organisation’s size, maturity, and complexity. 

Cyber and Fraud Centre Scotland said it was also exploring socially focused pricing models for charities, third sector organisations, and start-ups to help ensure cyber security does not become a barrier to growth or the responsible management of sensitive data.