Human Error: the Silent Cybersecurity Threat

The Role of Human Error in Cybersecurity

Human error is often underestimated as a cybersecurity risk, especially among those who consider themselves tech literate. However, in reality, any endpoint user (that’s a person on the end of a computer, tablet or mobile device) – anyone connected to your network – can inadvertently become a conduit for security breaches.

The Consequences of Neglecting Training

There’s one method that the NCSC makes a strong case for offering the best protection from human error; that’s regular training. Neglecting regular cybersecurity training for your staff can have severe repercussions:

Data Breaches: The leakage of sensitive business and client information.
Financial Loss: The high costs involved in damage control post a cyber attack.
Reputational Damage: The loss of trust from clients and partners, which is hard to rebuild.

Strengthening Your Defense with Training and Awareness

Taking measures to educate your team not only boosts their understanding but also enhances your organisation’s resilience against cyber-attacks.

Conduct Regular Training

Hold regular training sessions to educate your team on the latest cybersecurity threats and practices. This ensures that they are aware of the kinds of threats they may encounter and how to respond.

Simulated Phishing Attacks

Run simulated phishing campaigns to test your team’s ability to identify and avoid phishing emails. This practical approach can be an eye-opener and serves as excellent hands-on training.

Teach Them How to Spot Fakes

Teach your staff how to recognise fake emails and web pages:

Look for spelling errors: Legitimate communications usually don’t contain spelling mistakes.
Examine URLs closely: Sometimes, attackers use characters that look similar to the actual ones to deceive users.
Be cautious with attachments or links: Encourage your staff to verify the legitimacy before clicking on any links or downloading attachments.

Implement Strong Password Policies

Enforce the use of strong passwords and ensure that they are changed regularly. Additionally, encourage the use of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security.

Ensure Timely System Updates

Make sure that all systems and applications are regularly updated with the latest security patches. This helps to protect against known vulnerabilities.

Get Started with Our Free Guide

As a key step, download our free guide which provides a comprehensive blueprint for assessing your current security posture, understanding risks, and developing a training plan.

For more insights on cybersecurity, feel free to explore our range of resources or contact us at hello@clearskyit.co.uk.