I'm the go-to security person at our 20-person SaaS startup, but right now, our security policy is pretty much just based on vibes and a bit of hope. I need to change that before we end up as a cautionary tale, but I also don't want to overwhelm the team with unnecessary bureaucracy or come off as the enforcer of rules that nobody follows. The guides suggest keeping it simple and compliant, but I'm looking for practical advice on what really works in real life. How can I get the team to take security seriously without making it boring or frustrating for everyone? What are the crucial security steps that are non-negotiable and actually make a difference?
2 Answers
Identify the standards and regulations your startup needs to comply with. If you’re dealing with something like credit card payments or have users in the EU, that’s critical. Review the regulations, see what you’re lacking, and understand the potential fines. It can be a wake-up call when you realize what’s at stake!
Getting buy-in from executives and management is key. They need to understand that security is a priority, not just a checkbox. If they’re on board, it sets the tone for everyone else.
I hear you! It makes total sense to be well-informed before escalating anything, though. I’ll definitely start with understanding our compliance needs.