How directors can stay ahead of cyber threats

Fostering a strategic dialogue between the board and management means cybersecurity is treated as a core business priority.

Presented by Okta

Cyber threats, like supply chain attacks, credential abuse and AI vulnerabilities, are growing at an alarming rate. For Australian businesses, the stakes are massive. Directors must act decisively to protect their organisations from reputational damage, financial losses and operational chaos.

Okta is an independent, neutral partner — the ultimate ally for directors who demand confidence, clarity and control in the fight against cyber threats.

“With Okta, businesses gain the tools to secure their systems, protect their identities and stay ahead of attackers,” says Mathew Graham, Okta Regional Chief Security Officer, APAC.

Directors must prioritise five critical areas to safeguard their organisations.

1. Fortify the supply chain

Supply chain attacks can enable cyber criminals to exploit vulnerabilities in third-party vendors to infiltrate businesses. Okta’s cutting-edge identity and access management (IAM) tools ensure only authorised users, human or AI, can access critical systems.

“Okta’s independence means it works seamlessly across all vendors, giving businesses visibility and control over third-party access,” says Graham. “With Okta, directors have greater reassurance their supply chain is locked down and their organisation protected from weak links.”

2. Redefine the security perimeter

Firewalls and static perimeters are history. Identity is the new perimeter and it’s under attack. Graham says Okta detects and blocks about eight billion attacks each month through its ThreatInsight security feature. Many of these are credential stuffing or malicious bot activity.

Advanced tools like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and privileged access management stop attackers in their tracks. Phishing-resistant, passwordless authentication bolsters your defence. By putting identity at the centre of your cybersecurity strategy, Okta ensures your organisation is protected where it matters.

3. Be ready to respond

When a breach happens, every second counts. The difference between a minor incident and a full-blown catastrophe is how quickly and effectively your organisation can respond. With Okta, speed and precision are built in. Its platform allows businesses to revoke access instantly, roll out stronger security policies quickly and generate detailed incident reports in real time. Okta doesn’t just help you respond — it empowers you to take control. Directors can trust Okta to minimise disruption, contain threats and get the business back on track fast.

4. Embrace cutting-edge tools

The Australian Cyber Security Centre has made it clear — modern threats need modern solutions. “Okta’s technology is proactive, staying ahead of threats so your organisation doesn’t have to play catch-up,” says Graham — even with the rapid adaptations and changes that generative and agentic AI is creating.

5. Scale with confidence

Growth and change are inevitable. Whether it’s a merger, a cloud migration or AI adoption, businesses must ensure their cybersecurity can scale seamlessly. Your security strategy needs to keep up with the ambitions of your business.

Okta is built for scalability. Its platform adapts effortlessly to new technologies, expanding operations and complex transformations. Whether integrating AI agents or navigating a major merger, Okta ensures your security infrastructure grows with you, working with the best tools for every part of your business.

Independence matters

Okta offers a platform that integrates with whatever tools your business needs. This independence eliminates the risks of vendor lock-in and ensures your organisation stays agile, adaptable and secure.

“Would you invest all your money in a single stock? Possibly not,” says Graham. “The same logic applies to cybersecurity. Okta’s independence diversifies your defences, reducing risk and strengthening your overall security posture.”

Cybersecurity isn’t just about preventing breaches, it’s about enabling growth, trust and innovation, he explains. “Okta gives directors the confidence to lead boldly, knowing their organisations are protected.”

With Okta, directors gain:

• Unmatched visibility into who has access to what, ensuring no blind spots
• Fast response capabilities to contain threats before they escalate
• Scalable solutions that grow with your business and adapt to change
• Cutting-edge technology that stays ahead of attackers
• Independent oversight that puts your organisation’s security above all else.

Act now

Turn your cybersecurity from a vulnerability into a competitive advantage. “Complacency is the greatest threat to cybersecurity,” says Graham. “Directors who fail to act risk leaving their organisations exposed to devastating breaches.”

Stay safe, secure and ahead of the curve with Okta.