The Four 'C's of Security

Communication is the exchange of ideas or emotions. It is a simple definition for such a complex subject. Daily use of communication is almost unavoidable. We create tools to communicate such as print, phones, radios, televisions, and perhaps the most extraordinary thus far, the internet. Imagine not using the internet for your occupation, it would be rather difficult and for those working remotely, it would be almost debilitating. 

So, with all this talk about the internet being a vessel for communication, it makes sense that cybersecurity solutions use communication to protect communication. Oftentimes “the 3 Cs” – collaboration, cooperation, and coordination - are believed to be the focus for a strong cybersecurity solution. Arguably, the most important one is missing or simply assumed and not discussed: communication.

Without communication, the other Cs become impossible. The relationship between communication and the use of Deep Content Inspection (DCI) is necessary to understand not just the content of the communication, but also the context. 

For example, clearance levels are used in the defense in conjunction with classification levels, to ascertain whether an individual can, or cannot, see specific documents. Additional context surrounding the request provides a greater level of granularity and improves security of communications overall.

Consider the challenges regarding bring your own device (BYOD) and the potential problems that could arise by ignoring the growing use. As the quantity and variety of information produced and exchanged by organizations grows at extraordinary rates, the processing of this information must keep pace. If it falls behind, then alternative, uncontrolled communications channels will open such as texting coworkers with personal phones resulting. An understanding of the information being generated, coupled with who is using it, and how it is being communicated, is increasingly important.

Many rely on the dominate theme of “the 3 Cs” of coordination, cooperation, and collaboration – but it is communication, with its flows and context, that will drive organizations towards improved Information Governance.