Even with the abundance of security provisions and measures, organizations still get hacked, sensitive information gets leaked, and what have you? This goes on to foretell that the role of cybersecurity is not entirely burdened on the cybersecurity professional but also on every single employee at the organization.
The cybersecurity space has etched its relevance into today’s tech space. Hardly will any organization remain operative without taking into consideration cybersecurity measures. Cyberattacks and threats are real, and it only takes one simple loophole.
The world of work has evolved and is still evolving, with new technologies sprouting up on a daily basis, like artificial intelligence and robotics. But these improvements have not taken away the need for human ingenuity. There is still a great need for humans in the world of work. While it is almost impossible for computers to make errors based on the instructions given to them, humans are very much susceptible to mistakes. And for cyber threats and leaks to be effective, there must be some error, some unchecked process, or some negligence.
According to the IBM Cyber Security Intelligence Index Report, 95% of cyber security breaches are primarily caused by human error.
What does this say?
It is imperative to create awareness and train employees on basic cybersecurity measures. Because humans are prone to some simple errors, cyberattackers bank on this. Machines cannot entirely handle the entire industrial process, so human effort cannot be overwritten.
While advanced technologies and sophisticated software provide layers of protection, it is often the unwitting actions of employees (humans) that can open the gates to cyber threats. Phishing attacks, social engineering, and insider threats exploit human vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity that encompasses not just technological measures, but also human understanding and vigilance.
A lot of reputable companies have been victims of such malicious cyberattacks, regardless of the security measures they implemented. This show that cybercriminals have no regard for reputation and just go on to find even the tiniest loophole with which they can gain entry to a company’s sensitive data, demand ransom, and ruin things.
The impact of the damages caused by cyberattacks is next to none, from losing reputation to losing customers and bad public relations. Redeeming your image or recovering from such attacks can cost a lot of money or even life. So it is important to invest in employees’ cybersecurity awareness and training as this will save your organization the cost of fixing things.
Prophylaxis is important in fighting against cyberattacks. Do not wait until you are under an attack, start now, and educate your employees on security measures.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when training your employees:
- Cyberthreats are real: Sensitize employees on the truism that cyberthreats are real, and anyone can be targeted.
- Phishing Awareness: Train employees to recognize phishing emails, deceptive links, and malicious attachments to prevent falling victim to social engineering attacks.
- Password Security: Emphasize the importance of strong, unique passwords and the practice of regular password updates. Teach techniques like passphrase creation and multi-factor authentication.
- Safe Browsing Habits: Instruct on safe web browsing practices, including avoiding suspicious websites, pop-ups, and downloading content only from trusted sources.
- Device Security: Educate employees on securing their devices, including regular software updates, antivirus protection, and the risks of using public Wi-Fi networks.
Remember that effective cybersecurity training is an ongoing process that adapts to new threats and technologies, and it requires the active engagement of all employees to create a strong defense against cyber risks. So stay always updated on security measures, and keep your employees in the know on security measures through training and seminars.