What does compliance in cybersecurity refer to?

Compliance in cybersecurity refers to adherence to mandated requirements set by laws, regulations, frameworks, or industry standards. This can include following guidelines established by organizations such as the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA), the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), or the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). Organizations typically strive for compliance to ensure they are protecting sensitive data, meeting legal obligations, and maintaining the trust of clients and customers.

By focusing on adherence to these external requirements, organizations can develop structured policies and practices that enhance their overall security posture. This might involve regular assessments, audits, training, and implementation of security measures aligned with the compliance standards. The goal is to not only to avoid penalties and legal issues but also to foster a culture of security within the organization.