In a column for the Arkansas Democrat Gazette, Chris Wright, partner and co-founder, draws a parallel between fad diets and trendy cybersecurity solutions, arguing that both promise quick fixes but often lack lasting value.

As early as December, consumers receive constant marketing related to New Year’s resolutions, such as supplements and low-effort exercise regimens. While tempting, these products and services are often unsupported by strong scientific evidence and can even be harmful. Sustainable health comes from fundamentals like balanced nutrition and regular physical activity. Chris argues that the same logic applies to cybersecurity.

In 2024, cyber incidents were widespread and severe, beginning with Russian hackers breaching Microsoft and continuing with major events such as the ChangeHealthcare ransomware attack, the CrowdStrike outage, and the Salt Typhoon breach of multiple U.S. telecommunications providers. At the same time, hype around artificial intelligence (AI) surged. AI has made social engineering attacks more effective and convincing, prompting many organizations to panic and invest rapidly in AI-focused security tools. However, it remains unclear whether these reactive investments meaningfully improved security.

While increased awareness of cybersecurity risks is positive, Chris cautions against operating in a constant state of fear. He argues that as long as people and organizations rely on internet-connected devices, breaches are possible. This reality underscores the importance of cyber hygiene. True cyber resilience does not require purchasing every new tool on the market. It means mastering the basics.

For consumers, this includes using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, staying alert to phishing attempts, keeping software up to date and using password managers. For businesses, it means understanding their risk landscape, implementing layered security controls across identification, protection, detection, response and recovery as well as training employees to act as the first line of defense.

In the column, Chris also warns that cyber threats will persist in the future. That’s why organizations and individuals should invest strategically by focusing on proven practices and seeking expert guidance when needed. Lasting security, like lasting health, comes from disciplined fundamentals—not trends.