In This Issue
- Industry News & ISO 27001 Updates
- Emerging Cyber Threats
- Key Mitigation Strategies
- Best Practices for Security Teams
- Recommended Resources & Webinars
Industry News & ISO Updates
ISO 27001:2022 Compliance Deadline and Climate Risk Amendment
With the recent changes to ISO 27001, organisations are reminded that the deadline for transitioning to ISO 27001:2022 is approaching, with full compliance required by October 2025. As of November 2024, all new certifications and recertifications must align with the 2022 version. One of the most notable changes includes Amendment 1, which provides guidance on incorporating climate-related risks into an organisation’s Information Security Management System (ISMS). This update encourages organisations to evaluate how environmental factors might impact information security and resilience.
Key Takeaway:
If your organisation is still certified under ISO 27001:2013, it’s time to plan your transition to the 2022 standard. The climate risk amendment is particularly relevant for industries impacted by environmental changes, such as energy and transportation. For those planning audits or certifications, ensure your ISMS accounts for these updates. Learn more about ISO 27001 changes.
Emerging Cyber Threats
Top Threats in November: Ransomware Targeting Critical Infrastructure & AI-Powered Phishing Attacks
This month, ransomware and AI-enhanced phishing continue to be pressing concerns:
- Ransomware: Ransomware groups are increasingly targeting critical infrastructure, focusing on sectors like healthcare, energy, and finance. Dark Reading reports that attackers exploit outdated systems and unsecured remote access points, underscoring the need for organisations to secure essential services.
- AI-Powered Phishing: Cybercriminals are leveraging AI to craft more personalised and convincing phishing emails, making it harder for employees to detect. Graham Cluley and Infosecurity Magazine have highlighted a rise in these AI-powered phishing attempts, which adapt based on employee behaviours.
Industries Impacted: Healthcare, Energy, Financial Services, Public Sector
Key Takeaway:
Organisations should prioritise updating remote access software, deploying anti-phishing solutions, and conducting training to help staff recognise AI-generated phishing attempts. Read more on ransomware and AI phishing on Graham Cluley’s blog.
Recommended Follow:
For ongoing insights, follow Daniel Miessler’s Unsupervised Learning, where he covers the latest in ransomware, phishing, and compliance trends.
Key Mitigation Strategies
November’s Mitigation Checklist for Organisations
ISO 27001 Transition Planning
Start planning your transition to ISO 27001:2022 if your certification is still based on the 2013 standard. Review climate risks and ensure these are integrated into your ISMS as part of the new amendment.
Strengthen Ransomware Defences
Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems and adopt zero-trust principles to limit lateral movement within your network.
Phishing Protection
Deploy AI-based email security to filter out AI-enhanced phishing attempts and train employees regularly on phishing recognition.
Regular Software Patching
Ensure critical systems are updated promptly, especially VPNs and remote access tools, following recommendations from security leaders like Sophos and Akamai.
Pro Tip: Visit Tripwire’s blog for in-depth resources on compliance and patch management, as well as tips for a smooth ISO 27001 transition.
Best Practices for Security Teams
November Cybersecurity Best Practices
Integrate ISO 27001:2022 Requirements into Operations
As part of your ISO 27001 transition, ensure that information security policies are updated to include climate risk if it’s applicable to your industry.
Conduct Threat Hunting Exercises
Engage in regular threat hunting to uncover threats that may evade traditional defences. Security Weekly has helpful resources on effective threat-hunting methods.
Enhance Remote Work Security
Review and tighten access to remote work environments by implementing MFA and updated endpoint protection. CSO Online provides guidance on securing remote access.
Incident Response Planning
Test and update your incident response (IR) plans, with an emphasis on ISO 27001 compliance requirements. Infosecurity Magazine regularly shares case studies on effective incident response.
Action Item:
Review these practices with your security, IT and compliance teams, focusing on ISO 27001 alignment and preparedness for sophisticated phishing and ransomware attacks.
Recommended Resources & Webinars
Upcoming Webinars
1st November: AI & Cybersecurity – Future Trends
Hosted by: The Hacker News
Topic: The AI Revolution in Vulnerability Management: 2025 Trends for Security Leaders Register here
Don’t worry if you miss the webinar, the hacker news publishes all of its recent webinars on it’s webpage
December 3rd: Threat Hunting: Tools and Techniques for 2025
Hosted by: Security Weekly
Topic: A comprehensive guide to threat hunting tools and techniques.
Register here
Must-Read Blogs for November:
- Krebs on Security – Brian Krebs offers in-depth investigations into cyber incidents and compliance news.
- Schneier on Security – Bruce Schneier covers security developments, privacy concerns, and regulatory updates.
- The Akamai Blog – Stay informed on digital product security and best practices.
- Infosecurity Magazine – A leading source for updates on ISO 27001, regulatory compliance, and cybersecurity news.
November’s Action Item: Explore these resources and attend webinars to stay ahead of security trends and ISO compliance requirements.
Stay Secure and Resilient!
Organisations must remain vigilant and proactive. Prioritising ISO 27001 compliance, strengthening defences against ransomware, and keeping up with AI-based phishing tactics will definitely assist.
For support with ISO certification, or any topic discussed, please reach out to the team at Inavate Consulting.
The Inavate Consulting Team
Info@inavate.co.uk
