As our tech-powered world advances at an increasingly rapid pace, an excellent cybersecurity program has become essential for every business and organization. Yet, there are a surprising number of security strategies that are missing a crucial piece: the “human firewall.”
Undoubtedly, your organization has already devised and implemented a broad range of cybersecurity measures, such as monitoring/alerting, endpoint protection, and incident response. But unless every member of your team also has a solid understanding of cybersecurity as it stands today, your organization is still at risk of human error.
Let’s take a closer look at how the best cybersecurity plans focus on educating the very people they intend to protect.
How to Build a Cybersecurity Strategy for Maximum Efficacy
Although we are firm believers in the necessity of comprehensive security measures and technology, high-quality cybersecurity services are only one part of a well-built foundation. Regardless of the size or type of organization – or the security strategy – effective protection cannot exist without training and security awareness.
What is cybersecurity awareness?
At its core, cybersecurity awareness is the ability to make informed, mindful decisions regarding security in day-to-day situations.
The large majority of your team doesn’t need to be well-versed in technical concepts like EPaaS or DDoS; however, they should be armed with the information needed to stay safe online. For example, understanding how to safely navigate the Internet, recognize suspicious emails, and avoid common cyber traps will benefit both the user and your organization as a whole.
Why cybersecurity awareness matters
Did you know that 85% of data breaches in 2021 involved a human element? What’s more, nearly 95% of malware was delivered directly to users’ email boxes – leading people to accidentally infect their devices and networks with just a few clicks.
It’s not a matter of if a hidden threat will be presented directly to your team, but when. However, when you take a proactive approach to security training and awareness, you can reduce the risks dramatically.
How to increase cybersecurity awareness at your organization
Once you begin to see training and awareness as tangible security strategies, implementing them becomes a top priority (and rightfully so).
Generally, the best option is to arrange training and workshops hosted by experienced professionals in the field. Security experts will have the most up-to-date information and can offer practical, action-based steps for your team, ensuring a cost-effective investment.
The specific trainings you choose for your organization will largely depend on the needs of your team. More than likely, certain departments will benefit from basic workshops, while others will require more advanced training information.
Some widely-applicable education options to consider for your security program include:
- General cybersecurity awareness and compliance
- Cybersecurity workshops
These topics are beneficial for every staff member. There are also more specific and advanced subjects to cover with certain teams, such as your IT department and/or leadership:
Ongoing education and training are the smartest way to ensure that your human firewall – the first line of defense – is adequately prepared to face virtually any threat.
Implement Your Cybersecurity Training Efforts Sooner Rather Than Later
Education is such a critical component of cybersecurity that the National Cyber Security Alliance and U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) declared every October to be Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Designed to inform and empower individuals and organizations alike, the annual campaign seeks to reduce the occurrence of cybercrime. And at Quest, we are dedicated to advancing the cause year-round.
When you’re ready to strengthen your cybersecurity program with education and awareness, Quest has you covered. Please feel free to Contact us for more information about our training and workshop programs anytime.
Adam
