4 min read
As we continue to dive into the new year, let’s talk about the resolutions that actually matter—like keeping our digital lives safeguarded from hackers. To get the scoop, we caught up with Michael Martin, Security Analyst at Standley Systems, to chat about why cybersecurity resolutions are a must and how to stick with them. Spoiler alert: AI is taking over, and you’ll want to pay attention
The #1 Cybersecurity Resolution for 2025
Michael has plenty of cybersecurity goals, but if he had to pick just one? Helping people understand AI and the risks that come with it. “AI is infiltrating everything we do,” he says. “Helping users understand how to use AI—and how not to use AI—is my biggest resolution this year.”
And honestly? He’s got a point. AI is everywhere, from chatbots to deepfakes, and with that comes a whole lot of security concerns. The secret weapon? Education. The more people know about AI risks and best practices, the safer we all are.
Employees Are the Human Firewall
When it comes to cybersecurity, Michael doesn’t sugarcoat it: “You are the human firewall.” Sure, security tools help, but they only work if employees know how to use them (and avoid clicking on that suspicious email).
That’s why Standley Systems invests in ongoing employee education, including monthly security awareness training. Michael urges employees to be proactive and take ownership of their knowledge: “Anything they read on ‘how can I be more secure?’ or ‘how do I deal with AI safely?’—that’s going to help them be better. Taking initiative is key.”
How to Stay Ahead in the Ever-Changing Cybersecurity Landscape
Michael has a system to stay on top of the cybersecurity game:
- Daily reading – He checks 11 cybersecurity news sites every day for the latest trends, major hacks, and evolving threats.
- Community involvement – He’s part of an Oklahoma-based cybersecurity group where pros share the good, bad, and the ugly of their cybersecurity experiences.
- Conferences & networking – Cybersecurity conferences keep him updated on the latest tactics and tools (plus, they’re great for meeting fellow security buffs).
If you’re in tech security, staying informed isn’t just helpful—it’s survival.
What's Next?
Last year, Michael bagged the Security X certification. This year? He’s setting his sights on the CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) certification.
Other 2025 goals include:
- Rolling out more security tools
- Sharpening best practices
- Focusing on security measures with the biggest bang for the buck
“There are about a billion things to look at,” he jokes. “I’m just trying to figure out what makes the most impact and focus on that.”
The Most Unexpected Security Challenge of 2024
Believe it or not, Michael’s toughest cybersecurity challenge last year wasn’t fighting off hackers—it was dealing with the insurance company. “It may sound silly,” he admits, “but the conversation about renewing our cybersecurity insurance was the hardest part.”
With an hour-and-a-half conversation on security measures, policies, and documentation, it was no small task. But staying organized and prepared made it manageable. The moral of the story? Clear security policies aren’t just good for protection—they make compliance a whole lot easier.
Cybersecurity Trends to Watch in 2025
AI is the cybersecurity hot topic this year, and Michael’s biggest questions are:
- How do we put guardrails on AI to keep people safe?
- How do we educate employees about AI risks and best practices?
- What should (and shouldn’t) be shared with AI-powered tools?
With AI creeping into everything—ChatGPT, Grok, Gemini, Copilot—the challenge isn’t just using it safely. It’s making sure everyone knows how to do so. “It’s everywhere,” Michael says. “That’s what makes this so challenging.”
Advice for Security Analysts Setting Tech Resolutions
Michael’s golden rule? Focus on impact. “There are so many different directions you could go,” he says, “but try to identify the area that’s going to have the biggest impact.”
When setting resolutions, ask yourself:
- Will this help our end users be more secure?
- Will it significantly reduce our cyber risk?
- What’s the real-world impact of this change?
The goal isn’t to check a box—it’s to make meaningful security improvements.
Final Thoughts
Cybersecurity resolutions aren’t just another thing to add to your to-do list. They’re essential commitments in a world where digital threats evolve by the second. Whether it’s staying ahead of AI risks, investing in employee education, or tackling compliance challenges head-on, Michael’s insights make one thing clear: proactive security is the best security.
So, what’s your cybersecurity resolution this year? If you’re not sure yet, start with education. The more you know, the stronger your digital defenses will be.
