Checking into the hotel in Stockholm, visiting Scandinavia with the family, I couldn’t help notice the local papers. On the cover, above the fold, was the face of a man frustrated with a recent turn of events. Even though I couldn’t read the words — I don’t know Swedish — I could tell the man was a politician. It was that kind of picture. Given the current state of American politics, it was almost refreshing to see another country swimming in scandal. Imagine my surprise, though, when I discovered the punchline. There were no prostitutes or drunken junkets. There was only cyber. But it was just as messy.

According to the hotel clerk, the current president’s technology secretary made a decision a couple of years ago to outsource Sweden’s cybersecurity. Seemed like a good idea at the time, and it probably save some Kroner. As luck would have it, though, the government databases were hacked, sensitive information was lifted, and, well, you know how the story ends. If you don’t, the details can be found here.

So what can we learn from this real-life story of good and evil? Well, first of all, the options that save you some money are not always the right answers. Second, everyone is vulnerable. After all, we’re talking about the Swedes, purveyors of Ikea and Volvo. Practical and safe. Third, no organization is too small to hack. Sweden is a country of 10 million, about twice the size of Metro Atlanta. But they were worth some hacker’s time.

A breach is not a fairy tale. It happens every day. But it doesn’t have to be a part of your narrative. Call ICS today, and let’s write a happy story together.