This last year has seen its usual information security problems. Data theft incidents, a slew of application vulnerabilities, mobile security threats and more have kept most industry practitioners fighting battles constantly. But these aren't the only problems facing them now. New and useful applications and tools also are getting more attention from corporate staff and executive leaders in order to save money and introduce efficiencies. Cloud computing applications, for example, can allow for data to be readily shared among staff and contractors, but can introduce a slew of risks if not protected properly. Virtualized environments, often turned to in order to keep costs down and provide more computing power, also can introduce their share of vulnerabilities.

Among all the old and nascent information security challenges, the faltering economy has certainly had an impact on funding. While many IT security departments are seeing their budgets remain flat, others are witnessing them flatline. Even with the understanding and support of corporate leaders, such a scenario leads to reductions in headcount and critical resources necessary to safeguard data that cybercriminals – often even more active in times of financial crisis – will do anything to get.

Accounting for these tough times and the many threats that information security pros must battle, it is more important than ever to honor the continuous efforts made by top-notch information security executives, organizations, vendors and service providers to ensure the safety of critical information and infrastructures. We at SC Magazine are excited to welcome you tonight as we pay tribute to industry leaders at our SC Awards U.S., now in its 12th year. Please join us in helping shine the spotlight on the achievements of 2009's leading professionals and organizations working to help keep the corporate world as safe as possible.