Effective Crisis Communication and Handling Rumors

📢 Getting the (Right) Message Out During Tough Times

Handled well, even a difficult moment can strengthen relationships and position your business as a trustworthy, capable partner. Clear, agile communication shows stakeholders that your business deals with problems head-on, values their input, and is capable of adapting to change.

In this article, we explore effective crisis communication and how it can turn problems into opportunities.

📖 Read the Article from NTM Advisory: Crisis Communication and Agility: Why Clear Messaging Matters in Tough Times

Compliance Updates

⏹️ Senate Orders National Quantum Cybersecurity Migration Roadmap

On August 4, 2025, bipartisan legislation in the Senate directed the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy to create a coordinated national roadmap for transitioning federal systems to post-quantum cybersecurity standards. This major policy action responds to the emerging threat posed by quantum computers, which could eventually undermine today’s encryption standards. Federal agencies will soon be required to modernize their cryptographic protections and follow updated guidance as part of a broad effort to future-proof government data security. Private sector organizations supporting federal systems — especially in tech and defense — should monitor these developments and prepare for quantum-resilient requirements.

⏹️ SEC Withdraws Proposed Cyber Policies for Financial Firms

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) withdrew its proposed rules that would have required registered investment advisers and investment companies to adopt written cybersecurity policies and disclose details of cyber incidents. This about-face means financial sector firms temporarily avoid new federal reporting and policy requirements, reducing immediate compliance burdens. However, experts caution that the landscape remains fluid as the SEC reevaluates its strategy, and state-level obligations or future federal actions may still introduce new requirements. For now, firms should continue to monitor regulatory updates and maintain strong internal cybersecurity practices to meet both existing standards and evolving client and investor expectations.

💬 Best Practices for Handling Misinformation and Rumors

We wanted to touch on something germane to our article on crisis communication: responding to rumors and false information. Here are some quick best practices that can help you handle these situations with confidence:

• Monitor Early, Respond Promptly
  Set up alerts and regularly check news and social channels so you can spot emerging rumors as early as possible.

• Stick to the Facts
  Respond using concise, accurate information — never speculation.

• Acknowledge and Correct
  Address rumors up front, even if you’re still gathering all the facts. A simple “We are aware of the situation and will provide accurate updates as we confirm details” beats silence every time.

• Be Consistent
  All official updates should use the same language and data points across platforms, whether it’s a press statement, tweet, or staff update.

• Empower Your Team
  Train employees on what to say (and what not to say) if asked about the rumor.

• Leverage Trusted Voices
  Where possible, work with respected partners, industry groups, or community leaders who can help reinforce your message with their audiences.

• Stay Calm and Professional
  Don’t let frustration or emotion show in public responses. A calm, positive tone — and a willingness to correct the record — preserves your reputation.

Taking a thoughtful, proactive approach keeps your side of the story front and center, minimizing the impact of false information and protecting the trust you’ve worked hard to build!

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