10 Easy Steps to make your team aware of cyber threats.

In today's digital world, cyber-attacks are constant, with phishing emails, malware downloads and data breaches appearing all over. They can destroy businesses and devastate personal lives, stealing private data with malicious intentions.

Your employees are your biggest threat! Human error is the main reason many threats infiltrate business networks. If your team lacks cyber security knowledge, they cannot protect your business. Accidentally clicking phishing links or creating weak passwords are the two biggest failures of employees.

It's estimated that 95% of data breaches are due to human error.

But here's the good news: these mistakes are preventable. Building a strong culture of cyber awareness can significantly reduce your risks.

Make protecting your business a company strategy.

It is essential to create a culture within your team of working to keep your business safe. As a collective, you will be a strong defence against cyber threats. Educating your team is the best way to make your organisation secure.

Easy steps that lead to significant impact.

Building a cyber awareness culture doesn't need complex strategies or costly training; your team can adopt simple techniques that will make a big difference.

1. Everyone's an advocate.

Cybersecurity isn't just the responsibility of your internal IT departments; everyone in your company plays a part in protecting your business. One of the best ways to motivate a team is to involve leadership and show commitment to protecting the business.

Everyone should:

-          Participating in training sessions.

-          Speaking at security awareness events.

-          Allocating resources for initiatives.

2. Make Cybersecurity fun

Cybersecurity training doesn't have to be dry and dull. Check out our YouTube channel for quick and simple videos that will keep your team engaged. Use quizzes and scenarios to raise interest and enhance your team's learning.

3. Simplicity is key

Terminology can be confusing. If your team is not the most knowledgeable in technology, it is important to communicate in plain language. Avoid using technical jargon and focus on practical advice that employees can use in their everyday work. Don't use words like "implementation of multi-factor authentication;" instead, explain plainly that it adds an extra layer of security for your accounts.

4. Keep it short

You mustn't overwhelm people with lengthy training. Instead, use quick and simple content that is easy for your team to digest. Deliver learning in short bursts over a period of time; this will help your team remember what they have learned.

5. Phishing Simulations

We can set your team up for phishing simulations that will put them to the test. Fake phishing emails are sent to your employees' inboxes; if they click, they are identified as a risk. Use the results to educate your employees on red flags and reporting suspicious messages.

6. Encourage reporting

Employees need to feel comfortable reporting suspicious activity without fear of blame. Create a safe reporting system and acknowledge reports promptly. You can also create a dedicated email address or an anonymous hotline.

7. Empower your employees.

Identify the employees going above and beyond for your company and use these individuals as "cyber champions" to promote best practices. Why not use them to your advantage to foster a sense of shared responsibility for cyber security within your organisation?

8. Security constantly matters.

Cyber security isn't just limited to work; employees need to be educated on how to protect themselves at home, too. Our videos have tips on strong passwords, using secure Wi-Fi connections, and avoiding public hotspots. Employees who practice good security habits at home are also more likely to use them in the workplace.

9. Celebrate Success.

Recognise employee achievements: Did someone report a suspicious email? Did a team achieve a low click-through rate on a phishing drill? Send thank yous and publicly acknowledge their contribution to keeping the business safe.

10. Leverage Technology

Technology can be a powerful tool for building a cyber-aware culture. Use online training platforms to track employee progress. We can help you access cybersecurity courses and software that will bolster your employee education.

Everyone has a part to play!

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 employee's processes and company DNA.

It's a shared responsibility. Fostering a culture of cyber awareness will benefit your business. Empowered employees will become your strongest defence against cyber threats.

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Contact us today to discuss cyber security plans and training programmes.

Do you need help handling your cybersecurity? Would your team benefit from high-level training?

We can help you reduce your cyber security risk today.

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Call or email our team to chat with our experts.

01482 420150

sales@theonepoint.co.uk