Cybersecurity Proves Essential in Mitigating Risk

Q: What are the driving forces influencing the adoption of cybersecurity in companies’ business models in Mexico?

A: Mexico is a high consumer of internet access technology and mobility has grown considerably quickly. The spread of applications and technology for end users has had a significant impact, and as it progresses, one begins to discern security gaps. Mexico may be very active in terms of internet access, but this does not mean that it is secure. Blue Coat Systems was acquired by Bain Capital and the plan is to become public in the coming three years. In order to reach this goal, the company will continue to invest in R&D and acquire companies that are suited to Blue Coat Systems’ growth strategy. The operations in Mexico have been tasked with maintaining double digit growth and expanding human capital. Mexico represents 50% of revenue in Latin America and is our most strategic location in the entire region.

Q: How will global IT trends foster innovation and economic development in the country?

A: The Internet of Things (IoT) embodies the idea that any device can gain access to the internet and that a single individual can have an array of devices available for use. On the one hand, we see the internet as a recreational tool, but on the other it is used for enterprise and business. Now that the Reforms, especially in Energy, have increased market accessibility, the implications for the companies that rely on this tool must be considered. The Reforms are pushing for the adoption of new technologies, platforms, and the ongoing dependency on the internet. Companies and individuals must distinguish between uses of devices in order for companies to safely secure their assets, which in this case it is data.

Blue Coat Systems firmly believes that security empowers business and that it should be an enabler rather than an inhibitor. We are a leader in the security sector and we consider the concept of cybersecurity to be an important component of any business strategy. The company has an open architecture that allows the adoption of different solutions and technologies across a wide array of industries and sectors and this flexibility is crucial in our approach. We have global visibility and we can detect malware activity worldwide, as well as being equipped with the most comprehensive internet cloud security.

Q: Why should companies in the energy industry adopt a strong cybersecurity practice?

A: The Energy Reform has opened the doors and new players will enter an environment that was previously dominated by CFE and PEMEX. This is why it is important to have an open architecture so companies can liaise with PEMEX and CFE in a transparent way. The energy industry must develop at speed and one of the crucial components is SCADA. All the information traffic that a utility like CFE and PEMEX compile has to be protected and we are developing systems that secure SCADA and the traffic data. CFE and PEMEX are transforming themselves into productive enterprises of the State, and cybersecurity might not rank high on their list of priorities. It is our responsibility to foster internet security in their business strategies and we aim to do this through sharing best practices. Not only must industries conform to the new reforms, but so must federal entities. Sometimes, we go beyond the norms and we are one step ahead, so it is important to effectively communicate all advancements to industry players.

Q: What cybersecurity malpractices has Blue Coat Systems spotted, and how will it help address them?

A: Companies with experience in other markets are already accustomed to dealing with cybersecurity and, in many instances, they share their own processes and techniques. Companies that will work with PEMEX and CFE have to have a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity. In the case of the parastatals, the work they have carried out so far shows that they are heading in the right direction. The federal government has also been developing best practices and in many ways it is more advanced in cybersecurity compared to the private sector. We have to dispel misconceptions about cybersecurity and make companies realize the potentially disastrous implications of complacency toward protecting their data. When we approach potential clients we always pose one specific question: what is the value of your brand? The name and reputation of the brand is one of the most important assets that are at risk if cybersecurity is neglected.