Article
July 24, 2025
By Scott Radcliffe
Trust is at the heart of every successful organization. In today’s digital landscape, that trust is built—and sometimes shattered—by how well you protect the data on your network. Reputation is hard-won and easily lost, making it a favorite pressure point for cybercriminals and regulators alike.
Over the past several years, threat actors have shifted tactics. Rather than relying solely on operational disruptions driven by ransomware, groups like Lapsu$ have gone as far as exposing sensitive corporate data without warning or attempted extortion, as seen in their attacks on some of the tech industry’s top companies.
At the same time, regulators and government officials are turning to more and more public responses related to cybersecurity, tightening their grip on corporate reputations through new rules and public scrutiny. With more stringent regulations and increased public reporting, organizations are being held accountable for how they manage and protect sensitive information. Meanwhile, a more cyber-savvy and skeptical public is quick to notice, and react to, any missteps.
Reputation and Technical Cyber Risk: A New Partnership
As the link between reputation and cyber risk grows stronger, IT and Communications teams can no longer afford to operate in silos. Their collaboration should go far beyond crafting post-incident press releases. Here’s how these two critical teams can—and should—work together:
- Translate Complexity into Clarity:
Technical teams understand the risks. Communications teams know how to craft messages that resonate. Together, they can ensure clear, concise explanation of core policies, risks, and responses both internally and externally. - Build a Culture of Security:
It’s not just about what you say, but how you make it stick. Developing a thoughtful strategy for culture change ensures that security messages are truly internalized throughout the organization. - Plan for the Unexpected:
Effective scenario planning for data security and privacy risks requires tight coordination. Legal, technical, and Communications teams must work hand-in-hand to prepare for—and respond to—potential crises.
The Benefits of Collaboration
When IT and Communications join forces, the results are tangible:
- Stronger organizational alignment and buy-in
- Increased compliance with policies and regulations
- Faster, more effective crisis response
The specifics of this collaboration will vary but the playbook begins with early alignment on goals, KPIs, desired outcomes and a plan for communicating information to the appropriate stakeholders. Starting before a crisis hits ensures everyone in the organization is working towards shared outcomes.
The threat landscape is only growing more complex and dangerous. While technical defenses are essential, they’re not enough on their own. Real security comes from building awareness, engagement and trust across every level of your organization.
If cybercriminals are evolving their tactics, organizations must evolve, too—not just in how they defend against attacks, but in how they think about and communicate cyber risk.
Scott Radcliffe is FleishmanHillard’s global director of cybersecurity, leading the firm’s Cybersecurity Center of Excellence and advising clients on rising cyber risks. He recently rejoined FH from Apple, where he led cybersecurity communications and previously served as the agency’s senior global data privacy and security expert.
See what else is happening
You might also like
-
Expertise
Closing the Innovation Gap With FH Fusion, Our Data and AI-Powered Solutions Suite
July 14, 2025
-
Expertise
As Seen at Cannes Lions: To Break Through, You Have to Earn It
June 26, 2025
-
Expertise
What Cannes Lions 2025 Revealed About AI
June 20, 2025
-
Expertise
Yes, You Need Creators. Now What Will You Build Together?
June 18, 2025
-
Expertise
Culture Connections Build Brand Credibility
June 17, 2025
-
Expertise
Creativity in the Age of Uncertainty
June 16, 2025
-
Expertise
AI Is a Business Imperative, But It’s a People Challenge First
June 12, 2025
-
Expertise
Protecting Relationships During a Cyber Crisis
June 3, 2025
-
News
FleishmanHillard Rolls Out a Virtual Audience Platform That Brings Real People in the Room
May 27, 2025
