In today’s digital landscape, businesses of all sizes depend heavily on technology to function. Technology plays a crucial role in storing sensitive information and communicating with clients and customers. However, the rise of technology has also increased the risk of cyber-attacks, and employees who lack cybersecurity knowledge can pose a significant threat to their respective businesses.
How do employees pose a risk to their businesses?
Phishing attacks are one of the most common ways cybercriminals gain access to a company’s data. These attacks involve receiving fraudulent emails or messages that appear to come from legitimate sources, such as banks or vendors, trying to receive confidential or sensitive information. Employees who are not familiar with the signs of a phishing attack may inadvertently click on a link or download an attachment, giving cybercriminals access to this sensitive information.
Choosing weak passwords is another area of concern. Cybercriminals have become more intelligent and crafty with their work, meaning they are more likely to execute an attack. Many employees use the same password for multiple accounts or choose easy-to-guess passwords, which can give cybercriminals easy access to sensitive information. Employees who are not trained in password security may not realise the importance of using complex, unique passwords for each account, putting the business at risk.
Furthermore, employees who do not regularly update their software or operating systems can leave their devices vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Cybercriminals can exploit security vulnerabilities in outdated software, leaving a company’s systems and data vulnerable. Employees who do not update their devices may not even realise that they are putting their company at risk, which may lead to unwanted issues within the organisation.
Additionally, employees who are not trained on how to identify and report security incidents can unwittingly contribute to the spread of malware or other serious cyber threats. For example, an employee who receives a suspicious email may not know how to report it to their IT department and may forward it to colleagues or even click on a link within the email. This can cause the malware to spread throughout the company’s network, putting all systems and data at risk.
To combat these risks, businesses must invest in cybersecurity training for their employees. Regular training on topics such as phishing awareness, password security, software updates, and incident reporting can help employees become better equipped to protect their company’s systems and data from cyber threats.
How do you know if you are in need of cybersecurity training for your employees?
Our thorough risk and maturity assessment looks at all aspects of your business and identifies the areas in which your organisation is at risk and needs to implement certain security protocols to avoid the abovementioned incidents from occurring. Once we can identify the areas that need attention, we can recommend the appropriate course of action to ensure you are prepared for any risk.
Contact us to ensure your organisation’s safety from any harmful occurrences.
