SEC Adopts New Cybersecurity Rules: What Comms Pros Need to Know

In the wake of the SEC‘s adoption of new cybersecurity rules, PR, communications, and marketing professionals play a crucial role in helping businesses navigate the evolving landscape and maintain trust with stakeholders. Here’s what they should do to address cybersecurity concerns effectively: #1 – Craft Clear and Transparent Cybersecurity Messaging: “Whether a company loses a […]

In the wake of the SEC‘s adoption of new cybersecurity rules, PR, communications, and marketing professionals play a crucial role in helping businesses navigate the evolving landscape and maintain trust with stakeholders. Here’s what they should do to address cybersecurity concerns effectively:

#1 – Craft Clear and Transparent Cybersecurity Messaging:

“Whether a company loses a factory in a fire — or millions of files in a cybersecurity incident — it may be material to investors,” said SEC Chair Gary Gensler. “Currently, many public companies provide cybersecurity disclosure to investors. I think companies and investors alike, however, would benefit if this disclosure were made in a more consistent, comparable, and decision-useful way. Through helping to ensure that companies disclose material cybersecurity information, today’s rules will benefit investors, companies, and the markets connecting them.”

As a proactive measure, PR and communications teams must work closely with the cybersecurity and legal departments to craft clear and transparent messaging about the organization’s cybersecurity practices. This messaging should outline the measures taken to protect sensitive data and the company’s commitment to safeguarding stakeholders’ interests. Emphasize the implementation of strong cybersecurity measures, employee training, and proactive risk management to reassure investors, customers, and partners.

#2 – Prepare for Incident Response Communications:

Despite robust cybersecurity measures, incidents may still occur. PR and communications professionals should collaborate with the cybersecurity team to develop a comprehensive incident response communication plan, in advance. This plan should outline how the company will respond to a cybersecurity incident, whom to contact within the organization, and how to communicate with stakeholders, including customers, partners, and the media. Quick and transparent communication during such incidents can mitigate reputational damage and instill confidence in the company’s ability to handle crises effectively within the required timeframe:

“In most cases such reports will be due four business days after the company decides that an incident is material. The company will be able to delay making the disclosure if the US Attorney General determines that revealing the incident would pose a substantial risk to national security or public safety.” wrote Ben Maiden, IR Magazine

#3 – Educate Employees on Communicating Cybersecurity:

Employees are not only the first line of defense against cyber threats but also potential sources of cybersecurity incidents through unintentional actions. PR and communications professionals should work with HR and cybersecurity teams to provide regular training on secure communication practices. Employees should be aware of the risks associated with sharing sensitive information and the importance of following established communication protocols.

#4 – Highlight Cybersecurity Initiatives in Marketing Efforts:

Marketing professionals can leverage the company’s strong cybersecurity practices as a competitive advantage. Highlighting robust security measures in marketing materials, websites, and social media platforms can reassure customers and potential clients that their data is safe with the company. Demonstrating a commitment to cybersecurity can also be a selling point in industries where data protection is a significant concern.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Get exclusive strategies and insider insights to boost your influence.

#5 – Collaborate with External Experts:

PR, communications, and marketing professionals should establish relationships with external cybersecurity experts, trusted strategic partners and industry influencers. These experts can provide valuable insights and help in crafting persuasive messaging around the company’s cybersecurity initiatives. In times of crisis, having these connections can be invaluable for providing accurate and up-to-date information to the public and the media.

#6 – Stay Updated on Cybersecurity Trends and News:

In the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape, staying informed about the latest threats, best practices, and regulatory changes is essential. PR, communications, and marketing professionals should stay updated on cybersecurity trends and news to proactively address potential concerns raised by stakeholders. Regularly communicating the company’s efforts to adapt to new cybersecurity challenges will demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement.

PR, communications, and marketing professionals are instrumental in shaping how the public perceives a company’s cybersecurity efforts. By crafting transparent and reassuring messages, preparing for incident response, educating employees, highlighting cybersecurity initiatives in marketing efforts, collaborating with external experts, and staying informed on cybersecurity trends, these professionals can help businesses build trust and maintain strong relationships with their stakeholders. The combined efforts of all departments, along with proactive cybersecurity practices, will ensure that businesses not only comply with the SEC’s new rules but also foster a secure and resilient environment for everyone involved.

Never Miss a Chance to Get Ahead

Every leader needs a trusted team of strategic advisors as they navigate challenges in a rapidly changing world. Experience firsthand how the right team can make an impact on your brand and business performance – to request a consultation today, Contact Us.

, ,

More from Avenue Z

  • Composite trend artwork sketch image collage of businesswoman young lady work internet webpage ai bot generate data simulation technology.

    From SEO to AIO: What Still Works, What Doesn’t, and What You Need to Win in AI Search

    Let’s start with the good news: not everything you’ve built in SEO land needs to be torched.

    Link

    12 min read

    ,
  • ChatGPT Shopping: How to Get Your Ecommerce Store Listed and Ranked

    ChatGPT Shopping: How to Get Your eCommerce Store Ranked

    ChatGPT Shopping is changing how people find products online. This guide shows how to get your store listed, improve…

    Link

    7 min read

    , ,
  • Who Won Marketing at the F1 Miami Grand Prix?

    Which F1 teams won the marketing race at the 2025 Miami Grand Prix? We break down the boldest brand…

    Link

    4 min read

    , , ,
  • Artistic representation of people in Times Square for NFT NYC 2025.

    Top NFT NYC 2025 Must-Attend Events

    Get ready for NFT NYC 2025 with our guide to the top events where culture, tech, and community collide.

    Link

    3 min read

    , ,
  • Introducing the AI Visibility Index: Fintech Payments

    A data-driven look at which payment brands are leading in AI search and what it takes to become the…

    Link

    7 min read

    ,
  • Why AI Agents Are Already Rewriting Your eCommerce Brand Strategy with Jonathan Snow

    AI is already making purchase decisions. My latest Fast Company feature unpacks what that means for brand visibility, discovery,…

    Link

    2 min read

    ,
  • Manhattan Bridge in New York City, view from the street between brick buildings, New York City, Architectural photography.

    Top NY Tech Week 2025 Events We’re Eyeing (and You Should Too)

    These are the rooftop hangs, power walks, and pitch rooms you need to be in—bookmark this list, grab your…

    Link

    3 min read

    ,
  • Top of Stack: Markets, Media, and the March Toward Mayhem

    Get the press hits, trend intel, and event picks you need to stay ahead in fintech, innovation, and digital…

    Link

    3 min read

    ,
  • The Mirage of Simplicity in AI: Why Strategy Still Comes First

    AI can move fast and look smart—but without a clear strategy, it often just scales misalignment. Here’s why the…

    Link

    3 min read

    ,
  • Google’s AI Mode: A CMO’s Field Guide

    Google’s AI Mode is transforming search into a conversational, AI-driven experience—challenging traditional SEO and redefining how brands achieve visibility,…

    Link

    8 min read

    ,
  • Retro background futuristic landscape 1980s style. Vector perspective grid. 80s sci-fi or game style. Retro neon background

    Top Picks for Miami Tech Week 2025

    The Best Events for Founders, Investors, and Operators to Attend This April in Miami

    Link

    4 min read

    , ,
  • perplexity-llm-integration-feature

    Perplexity’s “Frenemies” Strategy is Boldly Centralizing the LLM Ecosystem

    In a world where every AI company is racing to outbuild the competition, Perplexity made a bold move. Instead…

    Link

    7 min read

    , ,
  • Top of Stack: Fintech, Media, and the Rise of Borderless Everything

    From borderless banking breakthroughs to AI risks in federal policy, here’s issue #002 of what’s shaping headlines across fintech,…

    Link

    4 min read

    , , ,
  • Floating island adventure magical sky travel with pink cloud reflection in water landscape beauty view

    The Third Great Digital Land Grab: Why AI Search is the Biggest First-Mover Advantage Since SEO

    AI search is rewriting the rules of digital visibility; brands that move now to build AI authority will dominate…

    Link

    7 min read

    , , ,
  • Transparent Glass Cubes in Abstract Floating Arrangement

    AI Search Loves Answers: How to Write FAQ-Driven Content for LLMs

    AI search engines prioritize answers, not just keywords. Brands that structure content in a FAQ-driven format are more likely…

    Link

    4 min read

    , ,
  • Magnifying glass shows glowing red checkmark on dark surface. Quality control, validation concept. Image useful for illustrating assurance, standardization, certification. Compliance with law

    Top Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) Agencies of 2025

    The top AEO agencies of 2025 are helping brands secure visibility in AI-generated answers (because if you're not ranking…

    Link

    4 min read

    ,

Recommended reads

  • Composite trend artwork sketch image collage of businesswoman young lady work internet webpage ai bot generate data simulation technology.

    From SEO to AIO: What Still Works, What Doesn’t, and What You Need to Win in AI Search

    Let’s start with the good news: not everything you’ve built in SEO land needs to be torched.

    Link

  • ChatGPT Shopping: How to Get Your Ecommerce Store Listed and Ranked

    ChatGPT Shopping: How to Get Your eCommerce Store Ranked

    ChatGPT Shopping is changing how people find products online. This guide shows how to get your store listed, improve…

    Link

  • Who Won Marketing at the F1 Miami Grand Prix?

    Which F1 teams won the marketing race at the 2025 Miami Grand Prix? We break down the boldest brand…

    Link

  • Artistic representation of people in Times Square for NFT NYC 2025.

    Top NFT NYC 2025 Must-Attend Events

    Get ready for NFT NYC 2025 with our guide to the top events where culture, tech, and community collide.

    Link

  • Introducing the AI Visibility Index: Fintech Payments

    A data-driven look at which payment brands are leading in AI search and what it takes to become the…

    Link

  • Why AI Agents Are Already Rewriting Your eCommerce Brand Strategy with Jonathan Snow

    AI is already making purchase decisions. My latest Fast Company feature unpacks what that means for brand visibility, discovery,…

    Link

  • Manhattan Bridge in New York City, view from the street between brick buildings, New York City, Architectural photography.

    Top NY Tech Week 2025 Events We’re Eyeing (and You Should Too)

    These are the rooftop hangs, power walks, and pitch rooms you need to be in—bookmark this list, grab your…

    Link

  • Top of Stack: Markets, Media, and the March Toward Mayhem

    Get the press hits, trend intel, and event picks you need to stay ahead in fintech, innovation, and digital…

    Link

  • The Mirage of Simplicity in AI: Why Strategy Still Comes First

    AI can move fast and look smart—but without a clear strategy, it often just scales misalignment. Here’s why the…

    Link

  • Google’s AI Mode: A CMO’s Field Guide

    Google’s AI Mode is transforming search into a conversational, AI-driven experience—challenging traditional SEO and redefining how brands achieve visibility,…

    Link

  • Retro background futuristic landscape 1980s style. Vector perspective grid. 80s sci-fi or game style. Retro neon background

    Top Picks for Miami Tech Week 2025

    The Best Events for Founders, Investors, and Operators to Attend This April in Miami

    Link

  • perplexity-llm-integration-feature

    Perplexity’s “Frenemies” Strategy is Boldly Centralizing the LLM Ecosystem

    In a world where every AI company is racing to outbuild the competition, Perplexity made a bold move. Instead…

    Link

  • Top of Stack: Fintech, Media, and the Rise of Borderless Everything

    From borderless banking breakthroughs to AI risks in federal policy, here’s issue #002 of what’s shaping headlines across fintech,…

    Link

  • Floating island adventure magical sky travel with pink cloud reflection in water landscape beauty view

    The Third Great Digital Land Grab: Why AI Search is the Biggest First-Mover Advantage Since SEO

    AI search is rewriting the rules of digital visibility; brands that move now to build AI authority will dominate…

    Link

  • Transparent Glass Cubes in Abstract Floating Arrangement

    AI Search Loves Answers: How to Write FAQ-Driven Content for LLMs

    AI search engines prioritize answers, not just keywords. Brands that structure content in a FAQ-driven format are more likely…

    Link

  • Magnifying glass shows glowing red checkmark on dark surface. Quality control, validation concept. Image useful for illustrating assurance, standardization, certification. Compliance with law

    Top Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) Agencies of 2025

    The top AEO agencies of 2025 are helping brands secure visibility in AI-generated answers (because if you're not ranking…

    Link

  • Programmatic advertising and media buying platform concept – 3d illustration depicting automated digital marketing strategy with real-time bidding, data-driven targeting, and ai-powered campaign optimization.

    AI Optimization is Here – What Brand  Marketers Are Doing to Adapt

    AI search is rewriting the rules of discoverability as we know it. We asked six brand leaders how they’re…

    Link

Connect With Us

Stay in touch. Discuss your needs with us and see how we can help.