What a security awareness training program should cover

According to a report by the World Economic Forum, human error is responsible for 95% of cybersecurity issues in 2022. So it's imperative that businesses take steps to protect their data from user-related breaches and remain compliant with regulatory standards.
 
A crucial part of an effective human risk management program is continuous security awareness training that teaches users how to recognize and defend against cyberthreats. However, conducting security awareness training for your organization raises some questions, like which topics to include. This article will show you what topics should be covered in your security awareness training program for your employees.

Cloud computing

Cloud computing has revolutionized the way companies store and access data, transforming businesses in an unprecedented manner. While this digital shift offers immense benefits, it also exposes private information to a heightened risk of large-scale hacks. According to Gartner, by 2025, nearly all cloud security incidents will be because of human error or insider threats. This is why providing security awareness training for employees is crucial in protecting data in the cloud.

Phishing

During the fourth quarter of 2022, phishing attacks experienced a dramatic surge. A key element in these attacks is the advanced techniques hackers are using to deceive workers into revealing confidential information or downloading harmful files. Cybercriminals have also become more crafty, making it harder for organizations to protect their systems from attacks.
 
To ensure your organization's safety, employees must receive continuous training on the latest phishing scams to know what to do in case of an attack. Training will also ensure that all staff are aware of where and how to report a suspected phishing attempt.

Passwords

Password security should not be underestimated when it comes to protecting your company. Reusing simple passwords or choosing predictable patterns can put user accounts at risk, as malicious actors can easily guess such passwords.
 
To avoid any potential breaches, your training program must cover creating strong and unique passwords for each account. Additional steps, such as multifactor authentication, give an additional layer of security to guarantee the safety of your employees’ login credentials.

Removable media

Removable media, including USB drives and external hard drives, pose a significant risk to the security of your organization. Portable storage devices containing malware can easily infect your network and allow cybercriminals to steal vital and private information.
 
Your security training program should explain the proper use of removable media in a business setting. You should also teach your employees how to minimize risks related to lost or stolen equipment, malware infections, and copyright infringement.

Social media

By posting sensitive information on social media, people are putting themselves at risk of becoming victims of cybercrime. With the right data, hackers could easily use someone's account for malicious activities or even steal their identity. Teaching workers how to secure their social media accounts and restricting the visibility of company data will drastically reduce the chances of hackers getting hold of any sensitive information.

Mobile devices

Mobile connectivity has opened doors to a world of possibilities in terms of how business is conducted. However, it is also associated with a risk of security breaches. As more people rely on their mobile devices for work purposes, they must be cautious about keeping their data safe from any potential threats. By providing employees with mobile security training, your organization can help ensure that your data is safe and secure without having to invest heavily in costly safety protocols.

Identity theft

Identity theft continues to grow at an alarming pace, so taking steps to prevent it should be at the forefront of any cybersecurity education campaign. With effective prevention measures in place, you can protect yourself and your staff from becoming victims.
 
The consequences of identity theft are dire, with businesses facing financial losses and reputational damage.
 
In addition to covering these topics, your cybersecurity training program must also be tailored to your organization's unique needs and objectives. This ensures that your staff will receive the most effective training.
 
Another way to keep your organization safe from security threats is by partnering with an experienced managed IT services provider like SimplyClouds. We use powerful antivirus and encryption software to ensure the security of your data. Call us now to learn more.