Cyberattacks are a constant threat in today’s digital world. Phishing emails, malware downloads, and data breaches can cripple businesses and devastate personal lives.

Employee error is the reason many threats get introduced to a business network. A lack of cybersecurity awareness is generally the culprit.

People don’t know any better, so they accidentally click a phishing link. They also create weak passwords, easy for hackers to breach. But here’s the good news: these mistakes are preventable. Building a strong culture of cyber awareness can significantly reduce your risks.

Think of your organisation’s cybersecurity as a chain. Strong links make it unbreakable, while weak links make it vulnerable. Employees are the links in this chain. By fostering a culture of cyber awareness, you turn each employee into a strong link. This makes your entire organisation more secure.

PROTIP: Approximately 95% of data breaches are caused by human error.

Security shouldn’t be an IT department issue alone. Get leadership involved! When executives champion cyber awareness, it sends a powerful message to the organisation.

Leadership can show their commitment by:

• Participating in training sessions
• Speaking at security awareness events
• Allocating resources for ongoing initiatives
  

Cybersecurity training doesn’t have to be dry and boring. Use engaging videos, gamified quizzes, and real-life scenarios. These keep employees interested and learning.

Think of interactive modules where employees choose their path through a simulated phishing attack or short, animated videos that explain complex security concepts in a clear and relatable way.

Cybersecurity terms can be confusing. Communicate in plain language, avoiding technical jargon. Focus on practical advice employees can use in their everyday work.

Don’t say, “implement multi-factor authentication.” Instead, explain that it adds an extra layer of security when logging in, like needing a code from your phone on top of your password.

Don’t overwhelm people with lengthy training sessions. Opt for bite-sized training modules that are easy to digest and remember. Use microlearning approaches delivered in short bursts throughout the workday. These are a great way to keep employees engaged and reinforce key security concepts.

Regular phishing drills test employee awareness and preparedness. Send simulated phishing emails and track who clicks. Use the results to educate employees on red flags and reporting suspicious messages.

But don’t stop there! After a phishing drill, take the opportunity to dissect the email with employees. Highlight the telltale signs that helped identify it as a fake.

Employees need to feel comfortable reporting suspicious activity without fear of blame. Create a safe reporting system and acknowledge reports promptly.

You can do this through:

• A dedicated email address
• An anonymous reporting hotline
• A designated security champion employees can approach directly
  

Identify enthusiastic employees who can become “security champions.” These champions can answer questions from peers and promote best practices through internal communication channels. This keeps security awareness top of mind.

Security champions can be a valuable resource for their colleagues. They foster a sense of shared responsibility for cybersecurity within the organisation.

Cybersecurity isn’t just a work thing. Educate employees on how to protect themselves at home too. Share tips on strong passwords, secure Wi-Fi connections, and avoiding public hotspots. Employees who practice good security habits at home are more likely to do so in the workplace.

Recognise and celebrate employee achievements in cyber awareness. Did someone report a suspicious email? Did a team achieve a low click-through rate on a phishing drill? Publicly acknowledge their contributions to keep motivation high. Recognition can be a powerful tool. It helps to reinforce positive behaviour and encourages continued vigilance.

Technology can be a powerful tool for building a cyber-aware culture. Use online training platforms that deliver microlearning modules and track employee progress. You can schedule automated phishing simulations regularly to keep employees on their toes.

Tools that bolster employee security include:

• Password managers
• Email filtering for spam and phishing
• Automated rules, such as Microsoft’s Sensitivity Labels
• DNS filtering
  

The Key Takeaway: Cybersecurity is a Shared Responsibility

Building a culture of cyber awareness is an ongoing process. Repetition is key! Regularly revisit these steps. Keep the conversation going. Make security awareness a natural part of your organisation’s DNA.

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. By fostering a culture of cyber awareness, your business benefits. You equip everyone in your organisation with the knowledge and tools to stay safe online.

Why struggle with email filtering or security rules setup? Come to the pros to save time and avoid frustration. Book in for your free chat with Identity Computing today to schedule a chat about your cybersecurity needs.

Article used with permission from The Technology Press.