A guide to integrating application security into any cyber defense strategy

According to IBM's Cost of a Data Breach Report, the average cyberattack cost for U.S. businesses in 2024 was $4.88 million. In addition, Forbes notes that cyberattacks are projected to cost businesses an estimated $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. With staggering numbers such as these, cybersecurity issues must become top concerns. Among the most critical aspects to be addressed within the security landscape is integrating application security into the broader security framework, because applications are often the entry points for attackers.

Achieving seamless application integration, however, comes with challenges. Lack of awareness among leadership, siloed operations between security teams, and limited resources or expertise to bridge gaps must be addressed. Raising awareness among senior management, fostering collaboration across security domains, and investing in skill development are the inoculations businesses need to head off a crippling breach.

Implementing such measures will align security ...