Share this post: You’ve probably heard the term. As an industry standard, security awareness training (also known as end-user safety awareness training) is steadily increasing in popularity. But what exactly is security awareness training? Why is it important?
Security awareness training is a company-approved process to educate employees about computer security. This includes policies, procedures, as well as hands-on training about best practices for using company technology and exercising due diligence over the company network. It is very important. According to IBM’s 2016 Cyber Security Intelligence Index (IBM), 25% of security breaches are caused or exacerbated by employees. It’s a waste of time and money.
The What
Many security threats are targeting companies, especially those with a long history. These include phishing scams and malware, social engineering, and other forms of fraud. Your employees are often the ones who keep malicious breaches from reaching your company network. Sometimes it takes just one click to infect a machine and spread to your entire network. The user who opened the doors to bad actors may not always be aware of what they did.
To prevent security incidents from happening, integrate security awareness training into your employee onboarding process. ITProTV offers an online security awareness training course.
The How
Ransomware could infect your network, encrypting sensitive data such as customer information and financial information, and demanding ransom money to unlock your files. It is not only costly to lose mission-critical data but it could also cause the shutdown of your entire business, depending on your industry. ITProTV provides an in-depth look at ransomware and how it can affect your network.
Even small things can have big consequences for your company. Social engineering is one example. This video shows how a simple phone call by a bad actor can result in an employee giving out information that could lead to a security breach.
What to do
These are just two examples of malicious attacks that can occur. By educating your employees and creating a culture that promotes security, you can stay one step ahead. A comprehensive security awareness program is essential. This article will show you 3 ways to create a business-wide security awareness program.
It is important to remember that fighting security threats means that your IT team must be equipped to deal with the latest breaches. You can ensure they have the right skills to defend your company and help you when there is a breach. ITProTV offers a variety of learning options that will keep their skills sharp and help them grow into cybersecurity experts.