Where do we go from here?: To put a stop to this rising issue, we need to stop pretending this is someone else’s problem. We stop excusing toxic behavior just because someone carries the right title. And we stop treating leadership like it’s an untouchable domain reserved for those with the loudest voices or the longest résumés.This isn’t just about venting frustration; it’s about raising the bar.Security isn’t just a technical function anymore. It’s a leadership discipline. And that means we need more than frameworks and certifications; we need a shared understanding of how CISOs should show up. Internally, externally, in boardrooms, and in the broader community.That’s why I’m publishing this. Not because I have all the answers, but because the profession needs a new baseline. A new set of expectations. A standard we can hold ourselves, and each other, to. Not about compliance. About conduct. About how we lead.What follows is the CISO Code of Conduct. It’s not a checklist, but a mindset. If you recognize yourself in it, good. If you don’t, maybe it’s time to ask why. Either way, this is the bar. Let’s hold it.
This isn’t a hit piece. It’s a challenge.A lot of people in this space are trying to do the right thing. But there are also a lot of people hiding behind a title. If this article made you uncomfortable, that’s fine. Maybe it should. Discomfort can be useful if you’re willing to look at it head on.Let’s stop making excuses for bad behavior because someone has “CISO” in their title. Let’s hold each other accountable; not just for outcomes, but for how we get there. Let’s stop worshiping influence and start rewarding integrity.Ditch the ego. Lead for real.
First seen on csoonline.com
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