Blog  Cybersecurity Areas Organizations Are Investing In

Many organizations have to juggle budget allocation. Expenditures on operations, marketing, and advertising are commonplace. These areas often take the lion’s share because they promise growth and visibility. But what about the less flashy, equally critical investments? Workforce development and cybersecurity are frequently overlooked, even though neglecting them can lead to costly consequences. 

To better understand this gap, we reached out to industry thought leaders. We inquired about the percentage of their IT spending that went toward cybersecurity and, more crucially, what cybersecurity-related priorities they were setting. Their insights reveal an ongoing shift in how organizations strengthen their digital defenses. 

Cybersecurity Areas Organizations Plan to Increase Spending in 

1. Invest in Employee Training 

“We allocate 5% of our IT budget to cybersecurity. The area that we are most willing to invest in is employee training. It is a cost-effective measure that will benefit us in the long run. Once all employees become well-trained in cybersecurity, we won’t have to use extra cybersecurity tools. Employees will be able to handle any cybersecurity risks. They will quickly develop strategies to mitigate risks and detect threats. Additionally, they will recognize phishing attacks, which can come as emails, calls, and messages. As a result, third parties cannot hack the systems or access sensitive company data. With highly-trained employees in cybersecurity, the entire company’s security system will become stronger.” 

Jeremy Bogdanowicz, Founder & CEO, JTB Studios

2. Prioritize Threat Detection Tools 

“We allocate about 7% of our IT budget to cybersecurity, aligning with industry benchmarks. This allocation allows us to stay vigilant and adapt to our clients’ needs while covering essential areas like threat detection, compliance, and employee training. Different industries have unique risks, so we adjust our focus accordingly to provide thorough security tailored to each client’s risk profile. For example, in highly-regulated sectors like healthcare, we ensure that compliance measures are well-funded to meet legal standards and protect sensitive information. 

From my experience, investing in threat detection tools is crucial for any company, especially as cyber threats continue to increase in sophistication. Early on, we recognized the need for advanced threat detection because of real-world incidents we’ve managed—preventing potential breaches for clients that could have otherwise led to severe financial and reputational harm. Over the years, our investment in this area has proven invaluable, enabling us to catch vulnerabilities early and respond proactively. Working alongside industry professionals like Elmo Taddeo of Parachute, I’ve seen how important it is to have robust detection in place, as it often makes the difference between a quick fix and a larger crisis. 

Lastly, I can’t emphasize enough the value of employee training. One lesson I’ve learned is that even the most sophisticated systems can be undermined by simple human error. We’ve dedicated resources to help our clients implement regular security training programs to reduce such risks. For instance, a client in the real estate sector reported that, after implementing our training, phishing attempts targeting their team dropped significantly. Investing in your people is just as critical as investing in technology.” 

Konrad Martin, CEO, Tech Advisors 

3. Focus on Endpoint Protection 

“Allocating about 15-20% of the IT budget to cybersecurity is typical for businesses that comprehend the critical importance of protecting digital assets. The allocation isn’t just about the sheer numbers but prioritizing areas with the highest vulnerability. Law firms, being prime targets for sensitive data breaches, should consider investing heavily in endpoint protection and intrusion-detection systems. These can mitigate potential threats before they wreak havoc. 

Investing in staff training is often overlooked but incredibly effective. Cyber threats are not just a technology problem; they’re a human challenge. Phishing scams exploit human behavior more than technical vulnerabilities. Conducting regular, engaging training sessions can empower staff to recognize and avoid security threats, adding an extra layer of protection to the firm’s digital defenses. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of a breach from occurring in the first place. Always remember, investing in people can be as valuable as investing in any state-of-the-art technology.” 

Casey Meraz, CEO, Juris Digital 

4. Dedicate Budget to Proactive Monitoring 

“In my experience, approximately 25% of the IT budget is dedicated to cybersecurity. Over time, I’ve recognized the value of this investment, especially as digital threats evolve. Much of this budget goes toward advanced threat detection and proactive monitoring, which are essential in identifying and neutralizing potential vulnerabilities before they can impact clients’ websites or data integrity. I’ve seen firsthand how early detection prevents substantial damage, both to our systems and our clients’ trust. 

Beyond that, I prioritize employee training and awareness. Investing in a well-trained team reduces human error, which is often a key factor in security breaches. By consistently educating my team on the latest security practices, we’ve managed to build a culture of vigilance, which has been invaluable. Compliance is also important, but I’ve found that a strong foundation in detection and training provides the most immediate and impactful defense in a cybersecurity strategy.” 

Brandon Leibowitz, Owner, SEO Optimizers 

5. Emphasize Cloud Security and Training 

“Around 25% of our IT budget is allocated to cybersecurity. This aligns with our strategic emphasis on bolstering the cyber-defense systems of our digital teaching platform. We prioritize investments in areas like threat detection and employee training. Investing heavily in modern threat-detection systems is vital to proactively identify any potential threats. Approximately 15% of our cybersecurity budget is channeled here.  

We also understand the essential role of our staff in maintaining cybersecurity. Thus, about 10% of our budget goes for employee cybersecurity training, equipping them with the knowledge to avoid inadvertent security lapses. This combination of cutting-edge systems and robust cybersecurity awareness has proven successful in safeguarding our digital learning environment.” 

Lucas Tecchio, Head of Digital Content Creation, OPIT 

6. Implement Zero Trust Architecture 

“Allocating funds to cyber-security is an essential, though sometimes overlooked, aspect of an IT budget. Typically, about 15-20% of our IT budget is dedicated to cyber-security. This might seem like a significant share, but it’s necessary to protect our digital assets and consumer data from a variety of threats. Investing in cyber-security isn’t just about buying the latest software. Often, it includes training staff to recognize and avoid potential cyber threats, which can be a game-changer in preventing breaches. 

Priorities in cyber-security spending often include advanced threat detection and response systems. These systems provide real-time monitoring and help in identifying threats before they cause damage. Another key area is cloud security, ensuring that data stored and processed in cloud environments remains safe. Implementing a Zero Trust architecture is an effective methodology. It operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify,” requiring strict identity verification for every person or device trying to access resources on a private network, regardless of whether they are inside or outside the network perimeter. This approach helps in significantly reducing the risk of internal threats.” 

Chris Roy, Product and Marketing Director, Reclaim247 

7. Channel Budget to Intrusion Detection 

“In our company, about 15% of the IT budget is channeled toward cybersecurity. While it might seem like a hefty slice, ensuring the protection of our customer data and internal operations justifies the investment. Many enterprises might overlook the importance of cybersecurity, seeing it as just another expense. But with increasing threats, it forms the backbone of trust for our clients. This budget allocation supports solutions including intrusion-detection systems and regular security audits. 

The areas demanding the most investment are cloud security and employee training. The cloud has revolutionized operations, but it’s a double-edged sword without proper security measures. Employee training, often neglected, is crucial, too. After all, humans are frequently the weakest link in security protocols. Phishing simulations are an efficient way to improve awareness. Regularly sending fake phishing emails to staff helps them spot genuine threats, reinforcing vigilance against actual cyberattacks. This hands-on experience is not only preventive but also creates a proactive security culture within the organization.” 

Andrew Franks, Co-Founder, Claimsline 

8. Protect Remote Workforce and Client Data 

“For us, we allocate 25% of our total IT budget to cybersecurity, with a particular emphasis on protecting our global remote workforce and client data. This allocation has shifted significantly as cyber threats have become more sophisticated and our remote operations have expanded. 

Our highest-investment priority is comprehensive threat detection and response, accounting for 40% of our security budget. For example, we recently enhanced our security infrastructure with advanced AI-powered monitoring systems that protect our teams across different time zones. This investment has proven its worth, with a 60% improvement in threat detection speed and a 45% reduction in false positives compared to our previous system. 

However, we’ve found that technical solutions alone aren’t enough. We dedicate another 30% to employee training and awareness programs, recognizing that human error remains one of the biggest security vulnerabilities in remote work environments. The remaining budget is split between compliance (20%) and incident response planning (10%). 

Effective cybersecurity investment isn’t just about the percentage spent — it’s about strategic allocation based on your specific risk profile and operational needs. Focus on building a balanced security program that addresses both technical vulnerabilities and human factors.” 

Aaron Whittaker, VP of Demand Generation & Marketing, Thrive Digital Marketing Agency 

9. Allocate Funds for AI Threat Detection 

“In response to increasing cyber threats, our business allocates 30% of our total IT budget to cybersecurity programs. This investment protects our operations and customer data while meeting compliance requirements. This significant investment is driven by the rising costs of data breaches and stricter compliance requirements, making it essential for risk management and business continuity. 

Within our cybersecurity budget, our primary focus is threat detection and prevention at 40%. This includes AI and machine-learning enhancements for faster threat detection, advanced intelligence tools, and regular updates to identify evolving risks. These systems help us monitor and respond to threats in real-time. 

Data protection and privacy compliance take 30% of our cybersecurity budget. This covers data encryption for information both at rest and in transit, compliance audits, software updates, and secure storage solutions. These measures ensure customer data remains protected from unauthorized access. 

Key areas where we invest the most include: 

• AI-powered threat detection and intelligence systems 
• Data encryption and comprehensive privacy protection 
• Incident response protocols and disaster recovery solutions 

System resilience and incident response receive 20% of the budget. This supports team training, backup systems, and proactive monitoring tools for quick anomaly detection. The remaining 10% goes to general security measures, including employee training and security assessments. 

We plan to increase our investments in AI-driven security solutions, focusing on enhanced threat intelligence capabilities. These investments align with our strategy of maintaining strong security through advanced technology.” 

Tomasz Borys, Senior VP of Marketing & Sales, Deep Sentinel 

10. Invest in Threat Detection and Training 

“I recommend that businesses allocate around 10-15% of their IT budget to cybersecurity, as this can provide a solid foundation for protecting sensitive information. In my experience, investing the most in areas like threat detection and employee training is crucial. Threat detection helps in identifying potential risks early, while employee training ensures that your team understands best practices and can act as a first line of defense against cyber threats.” 

Michael Hayden, Accountant | Business Owner, MH Services 

11. Behavior Monitoring and Anomaly Detection 

“We allocate about 30% of our IT budget to cybersecurity, and for a digital marketing agency, that’s a substantial commitment. Working with law firms means we’re managing sensitive data, from confidential client information to reputation-related details. A breach in our security wouldn’t just be a technical issue — it would directly impact our clients’ trust, their legal obligations around data protection, and, ultimately, their professional standing. Allocating this portion of our budget to cybersecurity reflects the importance we place on safeguarding every piece of data that flows through our systems. 

The area where we’re investing most is in behavior monitoring and anomaly detection. Traditional cybersecurity tools are good at catching known threats, but in our line of work, it’s equally important to spot patterns that might not fit a typical threat model. Behavior monitoring helps us map out what normal activity looks like for our team, clients, and external partners accessing our network. If a team member, for example, consistently logs in from one location and suddenly accesses data from another, we get an alert right away. 

We’ve integrated AI into this process, allowing us to spot unusual patterns, even subtle changes like off-hours access or uncommon file downloads. This ensures we can respond to potential threats before they escalate, which is very important in an environment where remote access is routine and different team members have varying levels of access to client data.” 

Mushfiq Sarker, Chief Executive Officer, LaGrande Marketing 

12. Prioritize Employee Training and Threat Detection 

“Cybersecurity is a top priority, with around 25% of our IT budget allocated to it. This investment primarily targets employee training and threat detection, as these areas significantly impact overall security posture. For instance, comprehensive training programs have drastically reduced phishing incidents, highlighting the importance of educating personnel. 

We emphasize implementing advanced threat-detection systems. Regular penetration testing and real-time monitoring tools are critical for identifying vulnerabilities and responding quickly to potential threats. These systems have proven invaluable, particularly when detecting and mitigating a sophisticated ransomware attempt that could have compromised client data. 

Compliance is another key area. By integrating automated compliance audits and regular checks, we ensure that both our clients and we remain aligned with industry standards. These efforts not only mitigate risks but also improve trust with our clients, positioning us as a reliable partner for their IT security needs.” 

Steve Payerle, President, Next Level Technologies 

13. Distribute Funds for Compliance and Training 

“The average organization spends about 11.6% of its IT budget on cybersecurity. This varies with firm size and industry-specific factors. High-risk sectors and large enterprises will most likely spend more, whereas a small business will most likely spend less, with the range being between 7% and 20% of its IT budget. 

Some cybersecurity budget heads to be prioritized would often be large amounts spent in the following areas:

• Threat Detection: Advanced security tools and monitoring systems that can identify and respond to possible cyber threats at a real-time level. 
• Compliance Automation: The organization will have to ensure that it is compliant with requirements, particularly in industries dealing with sensitive data. 
• Employee Education: Training will ensure that employees are well aware of best practices in cybersecurity and avoid many common errors when interacting with the system. 

All these fronts can be improved with an effective distribution of their funds, leading to an organization’s general improvement of the cybersecurity position within the framework of its specific business objectives.” 

Sheraz Ali, Founder & CEO, HARO Links Builder 

14. Focus on User-Centric Security Measures 

“Around 20% of our IT budget goes to cybersecurity, which might seem significant, but considering the growing threats in the digital landscape, it’s a necessary allocation. The key areas attracting our investment aren’t just the usual firewalls or antivirus software. Instead, there’s a focus on user-centric security measures. Enhancing how our platforms handle user data and access management is pivotal. This includes deploying AI-driven threat detection that learns from patterns, offering a proactive shield against potential breaches before they even happen. 

Investing in security awareness for our team and partners is essential, too. Many breaches come from human error, so fostering a culture where everyone is security-conscious strengthens our defenses manifold. Implementing a Zero-Trust architecture can be transformative. This involves a “never trust, always verify” philosophy for network access, ensuring rigorous identity verification for each user and device accessing our systems. It’s about transforming cybersecurity from being seen as a cost to becoming an enabler of trust and innovation, allowing us to confidently push the boundaries of providing seamless internet access globally.” 

Roy Benesh, CTO and Co-Founder, eSIMple 

Why “Value” Trumps “Cheap” in Cybersecurity Investments 

When it comes to pricing, TrustNet delivers competitive options in the cybersecurity market. Still, let’s be clear; being the “cheapest” isn’t what businesses should prioritize when safeguarding their operations. 

Choosing the lowest-cost provider could leave businesses with inadequate protection, limited support, or worse — non-compliance with industry regulations. Investing in robust cybersecurity and compliance measures today can prevent monumental losses down the line. 

This is where TrustNet stands out. We don’t sell vague promises or overly complex solutions. Instead, we offer straightforward pricing paired with a proven framework for success. Our Accelerator+ approach breaks down cybersecurity into three actionable pillars: 

• • Advisory: Get advice from our roster of experts on compliance strategies that meet regulatory standards, align with your business goals, and are tailor-fit to your organization and its unique needs.
  • Automation: Streamline defense mechanisms with cutting-edge tools that reduce manual effort and human error. 
  • Assessment/Audit: Identify vulnerabilities and compliance gaps through a comprehensive review of your current framework and ensure compliance with industry standards for an improved cybersecurity posture.

By investing in a meticulous yet efficient process like TrustNet’s Accelerator+, clients get the reassurance of durability and scalability in their cybersecurity programs. 

Proactive Solutions, Trusted Relationships, Lasting Security 

Partnerships at TrustNet are more than just business transactions; they are about understanding each company’s unique needs and providing solutions that have a significant impact. This proactive relationship-building ensures clients feel protected and genuinely supported in achieving their goals. 

Here’s how TrustNet stands out as a trusted partner for businesses: 

• • Personalized strategies: TrustNet avoids cookie-cutter solutions, focusing instead on tailored approaches that align with each organization’s specific risks and goals. 
  • Proactive support: Clients can count on rigorous assessments and consistent monitoring to anticipate and mitigate vulnerabilities before they escalate. 
  • Focus on trust: Transparent processes and ongoing collaboration ensure that organizations can rely on TrustNet as an integral part of their cybersecurity strategy. 

Disclaimer: Throughout this article, insights from CISOs, CEOs, and other executives are provided for illustrative purposes. These people may or may not be connected to TrustNet. 

Benefits of Deception Technology 

From traditional defensive strategies to a more dynamic and proactive approach, using deception technologies in cybersecurity is a welcome change. Its distinctive features give businesses many significant benefits that help them remain ahead of competitors. 

​Early Threat Detection 

With deception technology, threats are identified before they can cause damage. By placing believable decoy systems, fake credentials, and other traps within a network, organizations create opportunities to lure attackers. The moment these assets are accessed, an alert is triggered. This enables security teams to isolate the threat and take quick action. By preventing attacks from getting worse, early detection safeguards operations and data. 

Reduced False Positives 

Traditional security tools often flag legitimate activity as a threat, leading to frustration and wasted time. Deception technology minimizes this issue. How? Suspicious interactions with decoys are clear signs of malicious intent. Unlike traditional systems, there’s rarely any ambiguity. This precise filtering reduces false positives, ensuring security teams focus on real threats. 

Enhanced Threat Intelligence 

Every attacker’s interaction with a decoy generates valuable data. Hackers unknowingly reveal their methods, tools, and intentions when engaging with these deceptive assets. This information equips security teams to: 

• • Recognize emerging attack strategies. 
  • Boost defenses in response to evolving threats. 
  • Use customized countermeasures to get ready for potential scenarios.  

Organizations may learn practical information about what attackers target and how they operate by examining these interactions. 

When deception technology is integrated into a security framework, it does more than just add a layer of defense. It equips businesses with the knowledge and tools to build a resilient and intelligent cybersecurity strategy. 

Implementation Strategies 

Effectively deploying deception technology requires thoughtful planning and a commitment to ongoing management. Following best practices ensures a seamless integration into existing security frameworks and maximizes its potential. Here’s how to get started. 

Best Practices for Deployment 

Integrating deception technology into your security setup is not a one-size-fits-all process. Consider these guidelines for successful implementation: 

• • Strategic Placement of Decoys – Position decoys where attackers are most likely to target, such as unused IP addresses or sensitive system zones. This increases the chances of engagement while keeping real assets safe. 
  • Align with Security Goals – Customize deception strategies to match the organization’s unique risks and objectives. A targeted approach ensures that resources are effectively utilized. 
  • Layered Security – Use deception alongside traditional defenses like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and endpoint protection. This multi-layered approach boosts overall effectiveness. 
  • Adaptability – Continuously evolve the deceptive environment to keep pace with new attack methods. Static setups risk becoming predictable and ineffective over time. 

Real-time Monitoring and Response 

The success of deception technology heavily relies on active observation and swift reactions. Passive setups won’t extract the full value of this approach. To leverage its benefits, organizations should focus on the following actions: 

• • Continuous Monitoring – Monitor interactions with deceptive assets in real-time to track attacker movements and gather intelligence. Each interaction is an opportunity to understand tactics and motives. 
  • Analysis of Activity – Regularly analyze the behavior of intruders engaging with decoys. This data helps refine security protocols and prepare for future threats. 
  • Automated Threat Response – Use AI-driven tools to automate actions like isolating compromised systems, sending alerts, or neutralizing attackers. Immediate responses can prevent further intrusion attempts. 

By deploying deception technology strategically and maintaining real-time monitoring and analysis, organizations create an environment that actively works against attackers. 

Use Cases 

Below are some critical use cases where deception technology makes a significant impact. 

Perimeter Defense 

Deception technology strengthens the outer edge of networks by confusing attackers during their reconnaissance efforts. Key examples include: 

• • Decoy Servers: Fake systems designed to appear valuable, luring attackers to waste time interacting with non-critical assets. 
  • DNS Traps: False DNS entries that trick attackers into revealing their activities early. 
  • Immediate Alerts: Any interaction with these decoys triggers real-time notifications to defenders, enabling swift action to contain threats. 

This proactive strategy protects genuine systems while gathering intel on attacker methods. 

Internal Network Defense 

Once inside, attackers often try to move laterally to access valuable areas. To counter this, deception technology employs traps within the network. Examples include: 

• • Fake Databases: Decoy repositories that mimic sensitive data, drawing attention away from real assets. 
  • Simulated Credentials: Credentials intentionally left as bait for attackers, leading them to deceptive environments. 
  • Behavior Analysis: Interactions with these decoys expose unusual activities, providing early detection of breaches. 

By slowing down and redirecting attackers, internal defenses gain critical time to respond. These methods ensure minimal impact on real systems. 

Endpoint Protection 

Endpoints like laptops, mobile devices, and even IoT devices are frequent targets for cyberattacks. Deception technology directly addresses these vulnerabilities by deploying end-point baits. For instance: 

• • Decoy Folders: Fake directories that attract ransomware or unauthorized access. 
  • False Data Logs: Misleading logs designed to catch malicious actors attempting to collect intel. 
  • Malware Detection: Behavior analysis flags any attempts to engage with deceptive elements, quickly isolating the compromised device. 

These measures prevent attacks from spreading while offering insights into the attacker’s tactics. 

Challenges and Limitations 

Although deception technology has many advantages, it also has drawbacks. Organizations must understand its limits to evaluate its place in their overall cybersecurity plans. 

Potential Drawbacks 

• • Complex Deployment: Setting up effective decoys requires meticulous planning. If poorly configured, attackers might identify and bypass deceptive elements, undermining their value. 
  • Resource Demands: Deploying and managing decoy systems needs time, expertise, and ongoing maintenance. Smaller organizations may find these requirements challenging to meet. 
  • Limited Coverage: While effective in detecting specific threats, deception technology alone cannot address every cyberattack. This makes it crucial to use it alongside other security measures. 

Recognizing these potential hurdles helps organizations anticipate problems and adapt their technology to fit specific needs. 

Integration with Other Security Measures 

Deception technology shouldn’t be seen as a standalone solution. Instead, it works best as part of a multi-layered cybersecurity framework. Combining it with other measures enhances its effectiveness and provides comprehensive protection. 

• • Complementing Endpoint Detection: Using deception traps alongside traditional endpoint detection systems ensures broader coverage against potential threats. 
  • Strengthening Threat Intelligence: Decoy interactions can yield insights that improve other tools, such as firewalls or intrusion detection systems. 
  • Minimizing Gaps: By filling the gaps left by conventional tools, deception technology provides an extra safety net for critical assets. 

Balancing Expectations 

Businesses need to strike a balance between reasonable expectations and the promise of deception technology. Although this technology is unique, its effectiveness hinges on how effectively it is implemented and how strongly it aligns with other security standards.  

The Road Ahead for Deception Technology 

With the development of AI and machine learning, deception technology is rapidly changing. More intelligent, adaptive decoys that imitate human behavior and blend in with dynamic environments are anticipated. These developments will increase its application in identifying intricate attacks and delivering insightful data.  

Despite its challenges, the value of deception in cyber defense is undeniable. By tricking attackers, buying response time, and gathering critical insights, it reinforces an organization’s multi-layered security strategy.