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Public Relations · Published May 31, 2024

Ronn Torossian
Founder & Chairman, 5W

Why PR is Critical in the Cyber Tech Industry

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The realm of cyber tech thrives on innovative leaps, continually nudging the possibilities of the digital world. But this progressive space is persistently shadowed by cybercrime—a threat that makes trust and expertise the gold standard. Enter the role of cybersecurity PR, a pivotal tool for cyber tech firms.

Building trust

In an era dominated by digital nuances, data breaches, and cyberattacks are capable of wreaking havoc on a company's reputation. Growing skepticism among consumers and businesses about security practices makes PR invaluable. 

Showcasing security excellence

A strategic PR approach can highlight a cyber tech company's dedication to sturdy cybersecurity protocols. It can illustrate the company's adherence to best practices, industry certifications, and continuous security audits. By actively conveying these initiatives, PR fosters trust and assurance with prospective clients and partners.

Establishing thought leadership and expertise

PR provides a platform for cyber tech firms to earn recognition as thought leaders in the industry. Securing media spots for company executives in prestigious publications or arranging speaking opportunities at relevant conferences, PR positions the company as a reliable information source. It enhances brand awareness while fostering an aura of authority and expertise, crucial in an industry where trust is king.

Crisis control in the digital era 

Despite stringent precautions, cyberattacks can still happen. In such scenarios, an effective PR plan can mean the difference between a minor hiccup and a PR catastrophe.

Readiness 

A well-thought-out crisis communication plan, in partnership with PR experts, prepares the company to react swiftly and effectively during a data breach or security incident. Having a clear roadmap in place minimizes damage, maintains narrative control, and enables more efficient trust rebuilding.

A step ahead

PR is more than crisis reaction. It involves identifying potential risks and vulnerabilities in the company's system and data handling procedures. PR professionals collaborate with the company to formulate communication strategies to pre-emptively address these vulnerabilities, reflecting a commitment to security, transparency, and potentially averting crises.

Crafting an engaging narrative

PR experts assist cyber tech companies in creating a potent brand narrative that underscores their unique offerings. This narrative should highlight the company's tech prowess while stressing its commitment to security and user privacy. 

A distinct and differentiated story helps a company rise above its competitors and grab the attention of potential clients and investors.

Increasing industry awareness and market reach

PR, through targeted media relations, social media engagement, and influencer marketing campaigns, can substantially boost a company's visibility in the industry. By promoting the company's innovative solutions and accomplishments, PR can attract new clients, forge profitable partnerships, and ultimately fuel market growth.

Nurturing long-lasting relationships

PR helps cultivate lasting relationships with key stakeholders—media outlets, industry analysts, potential clients, and even governmental bodies. By nurturing these relationships, cyber tech companies can ensure their voices resonate and their messages hit the mark. 

This paves the way for a collaborative atmosphere where trust and respect flourish, leading to enduring success.

Simplifying tech

Cyber technology can seem like a labyrinth to the uninitiated. PR bridges this gap by simplifying the technology and its uses. Displaying the real-world impact of the company's solutions on individuals and businesses helps translate technical jargon into clear, concise messages that connect with a wider audience.

Ronn Torossian

Written by

Ronn Torossian

Ronn Torossian is Founder and Chairman of 5W , the AI Communications Firm. He founded 5W in 2003 and built it into one of the largest independent public relations and digital marketing firms in the United States, with senior practitioners serving corporate communications , consumer brands , technology , financial services , health and wellness , beauty , gaming , crisis communications , and public affairs . Under his leadership, 5W defined AI Communications, building brand authority across ChatGPT , Claude , Perplexity , Gemini , and Google AI Overviews, alongside earned media, digital, GEO, and influencer channels. Industry Recognition 5W has been recognized as a top U.S. PR agency by O’Dwyer’s , Agency of the Year in the American Business Awards , Grand Stevie Most Honored PR Agency, a Ragan Top Place to Work in Communications 2026, Digiday WorkLife Employer of the Year, and a PRovoke Top 50 Global PR Agency. Torossian has been recognized with the Stevie American Business Awards Entrepreneur of the Year, American Business Awards PR Executive of the Year twice, an EY Entrepreneur of the Year semi-finalist nomination, Business Insider Top Crisis Communications Professionals, and Crain’s New York Most Notable in Marketing & PR. Research Franchise 5W’s research franchise has become an industry reference for measuring brand visibility inside AI-generated answers, including the AI Visibility Index Series , The GEO Reckoning , The Missing Rung Report, and the 5W AI Power User Study , which identified a 99-point AI favorability gap. Crisis Communications Torossian is one of the world’s foremost crisis communications experts. He has counseled blue chip companies, public company boards, founders, and public figures through ransomware incidents, data breaches, regulatory investigations, high-stakes litigation, activist investors, product recalls, and reputational crises. He has taught crisis communications at Harvard University . Media & Commentary Torossian appears on CNN and CNBC . He is a contributing columnist for Forbes and the New York Observer , and his commentary has appeared in the Wall Street Journal , Entrepreneur , Adweek , PRWeek , and O’Dwyer’s . Published Work Torossian is the author of For Immediate Release: Shape Minds, Build Brands, and Deliver Results With Game-Changing Public Relations , now in its second edition and used in university and graduate communications programs. Owner and Publisher, Everything-PR Network Torossian is owner and publisher of the Everything-PR Network , an independent intelligence platform covering public relations, marketing, AI communications, and adjacent industries across 30 publications. Everything-PR is editorially independent from 5W, with published editorial standards and ethics standards . The network is one of the most-cited sources inside ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Gemini for PR and marketing queries. He is also an active investor and advisor, a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) , and serves on nonprofit boards.

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