Despite the most sophisticated managed cybersecurity services, human error continues to be a leading cause of security breaches. But there’s good news—this vulnerability can be significantly minimized through user training.
Although technology is powerful, nothing will ever be as effective as cyber-aware employees who want to protect their company. Learn how to layer managed cybersecurity services with user training to create a powerful cybersecurity strategy.
Why People Are Often the Weakest Link in Cybersecurity
Hackers use two human traits to their advantage: curiosity and laziness. Be honest—do you have a unique, unguessable password for every site you use? Have you ever really wanted to click on the attachment in the “You won!” emails?
It’s natural to want to click on a link or open an attachment when you’re curious or in a hurry. But this human impulse is exactly what hackers are counting on. They know that employees are often the weakest link in cybersecurity, and they exploit this vulnerability to gain access to sensitive information.
The Common Types of Human Error Leading to Breaches
What makes human error such a significant threat to cybersecurity? The answer lies in the common types of mistakes and oversights that employees make. These include:
- Falling for phishing scams through email, social media, or text messages
- Using weak passwords or reusing the same password across multiple accounts
- Falling for social engineering attacks where hackers use personal information to gain trust and access sensitive data
- Mishandling or misplacing devices containing sensitive data, such as laptops or USB drives
- Lack of awareness about security protocols and best practices, like software patching, leading to unintentional breaches or data leaks
The Impact of Cyber Threats Due to Human Error
The consequences of human error in cybersecurity can be severe and far-reaching. A single click on a malicious link or attachment can result in:
- Access to sensitive information, such as customer data, financial records, or intellectual property
- Disruption of business operations due to malware infections or ransomware attacks
- Loss of trust from customers and damage to reputation
- Legal penalties for non-compliance with data privacy laws
Throughout 2022, MailChimp experienced three consecutive cyber attacks—all caused by social engineering and phishing. At least one employee was tricked into exposing their login credentials, which allowed an unauthorized user to access at least 133 user accounts.
With a password manager and additional user training, these expensive mistakes could have been prevented.
Why User Training Is Critical to Cybersecurity
How can you combine managed cybersecurity services and user training to create a powerful defense against cyber threats? Here are some key reasons why user training is critical in cybersecurity:
Building a Cyber-Aware Culture
Training programs should be designed to instill a security-conscious mindset at every level of the business. By fostering a shared responsibility for cybersecurity, employees become active participants in safeguarding company assets. This culture helps reduce the likelihood of human error and strengthens the overall security posture.
Empowering Employees to Identify and Prevent Threats
User training equips employees with the knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to cyber threats effectively. Through training, individuals learn to identify phishing attempts, social engineering tactics, and other attack methods. This empowerment transforms employees into the first line of defense, capable of intercepting threats before they escalate into breaches.
Keeping Up with Evolving Threats
Cyber threats are constantly evolving, which makes it crucial for employees to stay informed on new attack methods. Regular training sessions ensure that staff are aware of the latest trends in cybercrime, allowing them to adapt and respond appropriately. By keeping training materials up to date, organizations can maintain their defense against emerging threats.
Effective User Training Strategies
Consistency is key to effective training. Regular sessions reinforce important principles and keep cybersecurity top of mind for employees. Training should be scheduled frequently enough to prevent complacency but not so often that it becomes burdensome. Striking the right balance ensures that staff remain engaged and committed to learning.
Back in 2020, a study presented at the USENIX SOUPS security conference showed that employees had the best retention with training every four months. However, this study is based on data from four years ago, and with current cybersecurity trends like the use of AI, we’ve found that the best results come from even more frequent training.
Interactive Learning and Simulated Phishing Exercises
Interactive learning methods, such as workshops and simulations, enhance the effectiveness of training programs. Simulated phishing exercises provide a practical, hands-on way for employees to apply their knowledge in a controlled environment. By experiencing real-world scenarios, staff can develop the confidence and expertise needed to tackle genuine threats.
Encouraging an Open Reporting Environment
If employees are afraid to lose their jobs or face disciplinary action for making a mistake, they may hesitate to report a potential security threat. Employees should feel comfortable reporting potential threats without fear of retribution.
Encouraging a culture of openness ensures that incidents are promptly addressed, minimizing the impact of any breaches. By fostering transparency, organizations can identify vulnerabilities and improve their overall security strategy.
How Do You Know If Your User Training Is Effective?
Measuring the success of training programs is essential for continuous improvement. Metrics such as phishing test results, incident reporting frequency, and employee feedback provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of training efforts. By analyzing these metrics, organizations can identify areas for enhancement and tailor future sessions to better meet employee needs.
Take the Next Step in Your Cybersecurity With Hummingbird.Tech
By pairing expert managed cybersecurity services and employee training, you can create a formidable defense against cyber threats. At Hummingbird.Tech, we offer comprehensive cybersecurity solutions tailored to your organization’s unique needs.
Our training programs ensure that employees understand their role in safeguarding your business and are equipped with the knowledge and skills to do so effectively. Schedule a call to learn more about how we can help you with every layer of your cybersecurity!