The vCSO is ultimately responsible for the safety and security of company data, personal data, and IT assets by providing the following:

• The ability to translate technical terms in ways that non-IT management personnel can easily understand.
• Preventing data breaches, phishing, and malware, by developing robust safety protocols and crisis management systems.
• Guidance regarding and maintaining the best practice security posture in the interest of customer.
• Design a framework to define aspects of security over a wide range of computer-related security systems and structures.
• Advise implementing and monitoring IT Security measures including those related to firewalls, network traffic, password access protection, anti-virus software and embedded language and codes to prevent the intrusion of computer hackers.
• Advise to train, manage, and supervise support staff of protection specialists and security engineers.
• Meet with customer management to ensure the overall security goals and objectives are being met. If new or improved measures are required, the officer is generally expected to research available options and present them to management.
• The vCSO is not responsible for physical security, such as preventing trespassers and protecting physical assets.

Breaches: The vCSO is generally expected to identify where the security break occurred and offer insight as to how it happened. During an investigation, the vCSO may be required to interrogate company personnel to gain information on the situation and determine if they have any knowledge of how the breach could have occurred. If disciplinary action is required, the vCSO will communicate and recommend punitive measures.

Security: Assist in developing, implementing, and maintaining security processes, policies, identifying issues, reducing risks, and limiting liability.

Compliance: Assist in making sure the company is compliant with local, national, and global regulations, especially in areas like privacy, health, and safety.

Innovation: Conduct research and suggest security management solutions to help keep the organization safe.

Future Proofing: One major responsibility of a contemporary vCSO is to predict the future of computer technology trends that give a business an advantage over others.