Intelligence in Risk Advisory + Compliance

If your team loses weeks every year pulling together audit evidence from disconnected tools, the problem isn't your documentation; it's your process. This article breaks down how integrating compliance into daily security operations creates continuous audit readiness, reduces team burnout, and gives leadership real-time visibility into your risk posture.

AI is transforming business operations but also introduces privacy and security risks. Learn how governance, approved tools, and clear policies enable safe, responsible, and compliant AI adoption.

Most organizations don't have an AI governance problem. They have a visibility problem. Unknown tools, unclear ownership, and undocumented data use are already creating risk, they just haven't surfaced yet. Here's how to get ahead of it.

Government contracts are getting harder to win without proven cybersecurity compliance. See how PJ Dick–Trumbull–Lindy got ahead of CMMC requirements by partnering with Echelon, and built a foundation their team still relies on today.

Cyberattacks in healthcare are no longer just IT events; they’re patient safety risks. Downtime is lasting longer, recovery is harder, and third-party failures are hitting clinical operations. Most organizations aren’t prepared for the realities of a prolonged outage. See what’s changing in 2026 and what it means for care delivery.

Explore the proposed HIPAA Security Rule enhancements for 2026, including risk analysis, documentation, asset inventories, and incident response planning.

The final piece of the CMMC puzzle: Are your vendors putting your certification at risk? From FedRAMP requirements for Cloud Service Providers to the impact of MSPs on your assessment boundary. Ensure you're ready for the 2026 rollout.

Do MSPs need CMMC Level 2 certification? The answer depends on how the MSP interacts with CUI. This article breaks down when MSPs are in scope, what types of access trigger compliance, and how organizations can address CMMC risk early.

CMMC 2.0 implementation has officially begun. Learn how the DoD’s 4-phase rollout impacts your current contracts, what to expect from Phase 1 self-assessments, and how to close security gaps before your next audit.

Data poisoning is quietly reshaping AI behavior. Learn how poisoned data compromises AI models, real-world risks, and how governance can protect trust.

CMMC 2.0 assessments are more than a one-time audit. Learn how often assessments are required, POA&M rules, SPRS issues, and how to stay compliant.

Confused about how CMMC levels are determined for DoD contracts? Learn more about the CMMC Model, Level 2 requirements, and how NIST SP 800-171 revisions impact your certification path.

2025 was a defining year for cybersecurity, and this article brings together the insights that mattered most. Inside, you’ll find Echelon’s top reports and articles covering real-world threats, defensive gaps, compliance shifts, and lessons learned across industries. It’s a guided entry point into the stories and strategies worth revisiting as you plan what comes next.

CMMC 2.0 requirements are officially rolling out, and defense contractors must act now to stay contract-eligible. This first section of our CMMC FAQs breaks down key timelines, costs, assessments, and official DoD resources, giving you clear, authoritative guidance to prepare for compliance with confidence.

CMMC 2.0 introduces new requirements for defense contractors. This guide explains what it is, the differences from CMMC 1.0, and step-by-step strategies for planning, assessing, and preparing for certification.

Preparing for CMMC 2.0 certification isn’t just about checking boxes it’s about timing and strategy. Learn how Gap Assessments and Pre-Audit Assessments work together to uncover weaknesses, validate controls, and ensure your organization is truly audit-ready.

CISOs and IT leaders face growing pressure to prove cyber risk maturity. This guide breaks down six actionable steps to build a scalable, compliant, and board-ready risk management program.

FedRAMP 20x is here. Learn what’s changing, who it impacts, and the steps you should take now to prepare for faster, automated compliance.

Prepare for Q4 with a strong business continuity plan. Learn how to manage seasonal risks, prevent costly downtime, and build resilience into the new year.

Download the OWASP LLM Security Checklist to evaluate and secure your AI systems. Covers threat modeling, dependency checks, deployment protections, and continuous governance for LLMs.

AI offers innovation and efficiency, but also introduces new risks. This article explores NIST 600-1 and ISO/IEC 42001, real-world examples of AI failures, and practical strategies leaders can use to govern AI responsibly.

Download the NIST AI RMF (AI 600-1) Security & Risk Mitigation Checklist to safeguard your AI systems. Evaluate readiness, manage bias, privacy, and security risks with clear, actionable checkpoints.

On June 20, 2025, Governor Greg Abbott signed the Texas Cybersecurity Safe Harbor Law (SB 2610). This law takes effect on September 1, 2025, and brings major changes for small and mid-sized Texas businesses that handle sensitive personal information.If your organization has fewer than 250 employees, this law could protect you from punitive damages after a data breach—but only if you maintain a documented, compliant cybersecurity program.

Discover how to develop a business continuity plan with this 10-step guide designed to help mid-sized organizations minimize downtime and recover quickly. Learn clear, actionable strategies to boost resilience and protect operations through effective business continuity planning.

While artificial intelligence drives unprecedented value, it also opens the door to significant new risks like model bias, data breaches, and regulatory penalties. Our guide provides an actionable roadmap for implementing a robust AI governance framework, ensuring your innovation is secure, responsible, and builds digital trust.

Think you’re ready for a cyber incident? Preparation goes beyond having a plan. Learn how to build real IR readiness—before you’re tested. 

Ley de Ciberseguridad en México: conoce la propuesta que busca fortalecer la defensa cibernética y garantizar la privacidad en un entorno de crecientes ciberataques.

Mexico’s proposed cybersecurity law introduces a national framework to protect critical infrastructure, strengthen digital rights, and coordinate response efforts against rising cyber threats across the country. 

Compare ISO 27001 vs SOC 2 Type 2 audits in this detailed guide. Learn key differences in scope, timelines, frameworks, and compliance use cases to choose the right standard for your organization.

Stay ahead of proposed HIPAA Security Rule changes with our compliance checklist. Learn key updates, how to document and test your policies, and strengthen your healthcare security posture before regulations take effect.

Discover how the Detroit Pistons partnered with Echelon Risk + Cyber to build a resilient cybersecurity framework. Download the case study to learn how strategic testing, governance, and expert insights reduced critical risks and boosted compliance readiness.

GDPR compliance, GDPR compliance checklist, GDPR audit preparation, Data privacy regulations, GDPR audit mistakes, GDPR compliance services, Data protection best practices, How to prepare for a GDPR audit, GDPR data mapping guide, Records of processing activities, GDPR security measures. 

Ensure your organization's IT and security program meets SOX compliance requirements. Learn how to implement access control, data protection, third-party risk management, backups, and monitoring to comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and protect financial data. 

Explore the top 10 key considerations for AI governance in 2025, including ethical frameworks, regulatory compliance, data quality, risk management, and international collaboration. Learn how effective governance ensures responsible AI development, transparency, security, sustainability, and public engagement.

This article explores the biggest cybersecurity challenges in healthcare for 2025, including IoMT device vulnerabilities, HIPAA Security Rule updates, and governance best practices. Learn how healthcare organizations can strengthen their security posture and protect patient data. 

Master the art of cybersecurity tabletop exercises with best practices for incident response. Learn how to plan scenarios, engage teams, and build a stronger cyber response strategy. 

We’re excited to share the 5 most-read articles of the year. These articles stand out for their relevance, depth, and impact on the ongoing cybersecurity dialogue. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting to dive into the world of cybersecurity, these pieces offer valuable perspectives on the challenges and solutions facing today’s digital landscape.

Explore the crucial differences between compliance and security in this insightful roundtable with Echelon’s Paul Interval and A-LIGN’s Blaise Wabo. Learn how to move beyond checkboxes, address risks, and implement forward-thinking strategies to protect your organization.

Discover the top 4 things to know about ISO/IEC 42001:2023 for organizations new to AI standards. Learn how this framework supports ethical AI development, risk management, and continuous improvement to ensure responsible AI governance.

Discover expert strategies from Echelon to enhance your organization's cybersecurity during Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Learn about training enhancements, cyber exercise benefits, internal testing, and building a culture of awareness to strengthen cyber defenses. 

The idea that cybersecurity compliance is a financial obstacle is a dangerous misconception. Having robust cybersecurity compliance is more than just checking the box on compliance. It is a strategic investment that can create significant returns for any organization, but for the investment to be successful, they must commit time and resources to it. Organizations that view compliance as an opportunity rather than just a box they must check, will have a competitive advantage against competitors. Customers are more likely to trust and engage with businesses that prioritize their data and privacy. Trust can then lead to increased customer acquisition and retention for any organization.  

Written by Echelon’s Cybersecurity Associate, John Hurd, our guide, "The Security Risks of Generative AI," dives deep into the potential pitfalls and offers strategic insights to help you safeguard your organization.

The new CMMC 2.0 requirements can be overwhelming at first glance. By implementing an enclave, organizations can greatly lessen the efforts and costs associated with CMMC 2.0 compliance.

Discover insights into the recent SEC cybersecurity disclosure mandates, exploring the evolving intersection of finance and technology. Learn about critical updates, implications for the cybersecurity landscape, and the importance of compliance for companies and investors.

Embark on a journey to HIPAA compliance with Daniela Villalobos' comprehensive guide. Explore the six essential steps, understand HIPAA's importance, and discover how Drata's automation tool streamlines the process.

Explore the significant changes and updates introduced by the NYDFS Second Amendment to 23NYCRR500, impacting cybersecurity regulations for financial institutions. Erin Conway provides insights on critical amendments, timelines, and actions for compliance.

Cybersecurity breaches are on the rise for healthcare, with many coming through the supply chain. Here's practical advice on how to assess the maturity of a third-party risk management program and reduce the risk associated with vendors and business partners.

When it comes to cybersecurity, all organizations share a similar risk – the possibility of human error. When it comes to educating your people about cyber, one size does NOT fit all. Here are six strategies to mature your information security awareness and training program.