It Pays to Invest in Security Awareness Training… Here’s What to Include

Security awareness training is a critical process for modern businesses to undergo to have any chance of success. Unfortunately, as much as security software or policy can help, it can only do so much. You also need your team members to be on board, knowledgeable about what they need to do, and motivated to do it. 

In light of this, let’s talk about security awareness training and what it needs to involve.

What is Security Awareness Training?

Cyberthreats are, in a word, everywhere. They can too easily be found online, in email inboxes, and in other places too innumerable to list. Security awareness training is the educational process that gives people (in this case, you and your team) the skills and knowledge needed to recognize such cyberthreats and respond appropriately whenever they are encountered.

The whole point is to minimize your business' risk by empowering your staff to reduce it.

What Should Security Awareness Training Cover?

No Business is Safe from Cyberthreats

Many modern cyberthreats are automated, meaning that any business they encounter is considered a viable target. If you were a cybercriminal, would you turn down hundreds of businesses that fell for your phishing scam just because they were on the smaller side? Of course not… and neither will the real ones. You need your whole team to respect the urgency of cybercrime and prepare for it appropriately.

Identity Theft Hurts Everyone it Impacts

Any organization's data collection can be invaluable to those attempting to steal someone’s identity, whether that data refers to the business’ clientele or workforce. As such, it only becomes more important to reinforce the importance of data privacy and protection.

Public Wi-Fi is Worse than No Wi-Fi

Not all Wi-Fi is the same, especially in terms of its defenses. For example, the publicly available Wi-Fi your favorite cafe or shopping center offers may seem convenient, but in reality, it is little more than data theft waiting to happen. Using a mobile Internet connection is far more secure, or if you have no other choice, only connect to public Wi-Fi with a business VPN engaged.

You Can Upgrade Passwords with Passphrases and MFA

I’ll tell you a secret: considering it’s the de facto cybersecurity measure, a password isn’t all that secure. Fortunately, there are a few ways to fix that, like the passphrase—where you use chains of entirely random words augmented with numbers and symbols—and multifactor authentication, where a second proof that is typically generated and delivered to a device is required.

Securing Your Devices is as Essential as Securing Your Data

Securing your devices is as crucial as protecting your data because they are the gateways to sensitive information. Without proper device security, hackers can easily bypass your data protection measures. Implementing strong passwords, encryption, and regular software updates helps keep your devices and data safe.

Browsing Safely is Half the Battle

Using secure connections, such as HTTPS, and privacy tools like a VPN can safeguard your data while online. Practicing safe browsing habits helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information and ensures a safer digital experience.

Breaches May Happen, so the Next Steps are Crucial

After discovering you've been hacked, acting immediately to minimize further damage and secure your accounts is crucial. Changing passwords, informing affected parties, and contacting relevant authorities can help contain the breach. Taking swift, responsible action helps prevent further exploitation of your data and protects others from potential harm.

Compliance Needs to be Upheld

Maintaining technology compliance is crucial for small businesses to avoid legal penalties and protect sensitive customer data. Adhering to industry regulations helps build trust with clients and partners, demonstrating a commitment to security and ethical practices. Regularly updating systems and following compliance guidelines also reduces the risk of costly cyberattacks or data breaches.

Attackers Will Try to Undermine the Human Element

They trick individuals into giving up sensitive information by manipulating trust and creating convincing scams. Strengthening employee awareness and training is essential to defend against these tactics and prevent human errors from compromising security.

Your organization can’t afford to neglect its IT security. If you would like help, call the security experts at SMART Services at 586 258-0650 today.