Ward & Burke experience strong returns from proactive cyber security
The continuous approach has helped them stay ahead of potential threats.
Our previous method of ensuring security and compliance was more towards the traditional annual penetration test.
“A few years ago, following growing interest and demand for our disruptive Active Focus service, we began expanding our customer base across the EU and beyond. Serving large European customers such as Ireland’s Ward & Burke Construction Ltd brings significant benefits, both to us and to our diverse and rapidly growing international customer base. At River Security, one of our key concepts is PurpleTeaming – helping our customers strengthen their defenses against cyber threats, not only through our unique and innovative Active Focus technology but also through a systematic, two-way exchange of insights between River Security and our customers. This broad-spectrum collaboration enhances protection against cyber threats in all their forms.”
Vegard Reiersen, Head of International Sales at River Security
We recently had the opportunity to speak with David Power, Head of IT at Ward & Burke Construction Ltd, about their choice to partner with River Security and their experience with Active Focus, our continuous external expert-moderated penetration testing solution.
Vegard: How has your experience been working with the team at River Security?
David: Excellent. They have a knowledgeable, proactive team that is always available with guidance when required. Their responsiveness and expertise have been crucial in helping us quickly address any security issues that arise, and they’ve become an integral part of our extended security team.
Vegard: What led you to initially engage with River Security, and how has the journey evolved with the adoption of Active Focus?
David: I was recommended to talk to River Security by an associate with in-depth knowledge of the security industry. We initially engaged them for a Digital Footprint analysis, which provided us with a comprehensive view of our external attack surface. Based on that positive experience, we transitioned to their Active Focus service to ensure continuous, day-to-day protection of our cybersecurity posture.
Vegard: Why did you decide to move to a service like Active Focus?
David: Our previous method of ensuring security and compliance was more towards the traditional annual penetration test. While these tests have their place, they are very much a snapshot of that point in time. Any changes immediately after the test risk going undetected. With Active Focus, we now have continuous monitoring, which gives us real-time insights and helps us stay ahead of potential threats as they arise.
Vegard: How has Active Focus contributed to strengthening your overall security landscape?
David: Active Focus uses the same methodologies as actual threat actors to examine our systems from an attacker’s perspective. This proactive approach means that River Security is consistently monitoring our cyber landscape for any potential vulnerabilities or compromises before they can be exploited. This level of vigilance is far beyond what traditional, periodic testing could offer.
The monthly review with our dedicated Threat Intelligence Manager gives our team a chance to focus on our current threat level, deal with any issues, and have a general catch-up on emerging threats.
Vegard: What changes have you noticed in your daily operations as a result of using Active Focus?
David: The main benefit of the service is an increased level of comfort knowing that someone is consistently monitoring our systems and ‘watching our back’ for potential threats. This proactive approach allows us to focus more on our core business operations without constantly worrying about potential security gaps.
Facts
Ward & Burke Construction Ltd is a leading engineering organization specializing in infrastructure delivery and operation on a Turnkey Design, Build, and Operate basis. Headquartered in Ireland, the company employs 1,500 staff and operates across Ireland, the UK, and North America.
