Insights

At Critical Path Security, we understand that cybersecurity isn't just about technology-it's about people. The pressure to defend critical infrastructure against relentless threats is breaking teams down. Burnout, imposter syndrome, and the weight of impossible expectations are leaving cybersecurity professionals-and the cooperatives they protect-at risk. Next week, Patrick Kelley be speaking at the Alabama Rural Electric Association Accounting Update Annual Meeting about the hidden cost of burnout in cybersecurity and cooperatives. This isn't just a conversation about mental health; it's about the business impact-from increased turnover costs and cyber insurance hikes to the financial ripple effects of security fatigue. Key takeaways: ✔ The "Accidental CISO" Problem - Why so many cybersecurity professionals in cooperatives never planned for the role they're now in. ✔ Burnout & Finance - How stress translates into real financial loss, from regulatory fines to delayed security improvements. ✔ Coping Mechanisms That Work - Practical strategies to…

While many organizations rely on Managed Service Providers (MSPs) for IT management, there's a crucial distinction to be made: MSPs keep systems running, but Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) keep them secure. MSPs: Primarily focused on Uptime, Not Security MSPs are invaluable for maintaining IT infrastructure, ensuring uptime, and optimizing performance. They play a vital role in keeping businesses operational, but their security measures often fall short. Common security gaps with MSPs include: Reactive Solutions - Many MSPs rely on basic security tools like firewalls and antivirus software. While these are important, they are no match for today's advanced cyber threats. Weak Threat Detection - MSPs often lack the expertise and threat intelligence required to detect sophisticated attacks before they cause damage. Inadequate Incident Response - When a security breach occurs, MSPs may not have the resources or experience to effectively contain and mitigate the threat in real-time. MSSPs: The…

We are thrilled to announce that Patrick Kelley, CEO of Critical Path Security and a passionate advocate for mental health in cybersecurity, will be presenting at the upcoming RSAC™ 2025 Conference in San Francisco. His session, titled "Mental Health in Cybersecurity: Balancing the Scales," will take place on April 29, 2025, from 1:15 PM to 2:05 PM Pacific Time at the Moscone Center. This session is part of the Inclusive Culture & Workforce Development track, highlighting the growing importance of mental well-being in our fast-paced and high-pressure industry. Patrick's talk will delve into the unique mental health challenges faced by cybersecurity professionals, from combating burnout and imposter syndrome to fostering resilience in the face of unrelenting demands. Patrick's session will offer practical strategies and actionable takeaways for attendees to address these challenges head-on, enabling them to prioritize mental health without compromising on success. Whether you're grappling with stress or seeking…