The Top 6 Benefits of Cybersecurity Training
Strong cybersecurity tools are important, as is having professionals who know how to use them. However, you can’t leave cybersecurity solely to your IT team. Any employee at your organization is a potential target for hackers. This is why the importance of cyber awareness training cannot be underestimated.
| “Many people know that they need cybersecurity training, but not enough to truly make a difference for their business.” – Blaine Gibson, CTO, Nexix |
Bad actors bet on people’s ignorance. That is precisely why SMBs are such a hot target for such individuals. They assume that SMBs have fewer measures and less knowledge. This assumption is also why they tend to target people who aren’t cybersecurity professionals.
To protect your organization, you need cyber awareness training for everyone. Alongside what we have already mentioned, here are 6 benefits of security awareness training that you should know about.
1. Better Risk Management
According to the World Economic Forum, 95% of cyber attacks occur as a result of human error. When your team knows how to recognize and respond to potential threats, the risk of damaging cyber incidents decreases significantly.
Furthermore, consistent cybersecurity training fosters a culture of security within your organization. As your team becomes more vigilant, they create stronger defensive barriers against potential cyber threats.
Here are some of the potential attacks that rely on human ignorance to be successful.
| Attack | Description | How Human Error Contributes | Recommended Training |
| Phishing Emails | Deceptive emails or messages to steal sensitive information. | Clicking on malicious links or attachments in deceptive emails. | Identifying and reporting suspicious emails, potentially through phishing simulations. |
| Social Engineering Attacks | Manipulating individuals to disclose confidential information. | Disclosing confidential information to manipulative individuals. | Recognizing and responding to manipulation attempts. |
| Malware | Harmful software installed through deceptive links or attachments. | Downloading harmful software from untrusted sources. | Safe browsing and downloading practices. |
| Password Attacks | Attempts to steal or guess passwords. | Using weak passwords or sharing them carelessly. | Creating strong passwords and maintaining confidentiality. |
| Man-in-the-Middle Attacks | Intercepting communication to gather data or impersonate parties. | Using insecure networks, allowing interception of communication. | Safe use of networks and communication channels. |
| Ransomware | Malicious software that locks access to data or systems until a ransom is paid. | Enabling malicious software that locks access to data or systems. | Avoiding suspicious downloads and reporting anomalies. |
| Drive-by Downloads | Automatic downloading of malware by visiting compromised websites. | Visiting insecure websites leading to automatic malware downloads. | Navigating and identifying secure websites. |
| Tailgating or Piggybacking | Unauthorized individuals gaining access to restricted areas through others. | Allowing unauthorized access to secure areas or systems. | Security measures for physical and digital access. |
| Vishing | Voice phishing attacks over the phone to deceive individuals. | Falling for voice phishing attacks over the phone. | Identifying fraudulent calls and protecting information. |
| Insider Threats | Employees compromising security. | Careless or disgruntled employees compromising security. | Awareness of internal security policies and reporting mechanisms. |
2. Increased Employee Confidence
Cybersecurity awareness training not only improves information security but also significantly boosts your employees’ confidence. Knowledge is power, and by equipping your team with the necessary information and skills to handle security risks, they feel more secure and capable in their roles.
The impact of this increased confidence extends beyond just cybersecurity. Employees who feel competent in handling cyber threats are more likely to engage proactively in their work. Moreover, confident employees are more likely to share their knowledge and support their colleagues.
3. Enhanced Compliance
Cybersecurity awareness training plays a pivotal role in ensuring your business adheres to various compliance standards. Today, many industries have regulations that mandate specific cybersecurity practices.
| Learn More About How You Can Improve Your Data Protection |
In most cases, compliance guidelines include requirements for a security awareness training program. Additionally, regular updates in cybersecurity training help your team stay current with evolving compliance standards. As new laws and regulations come into effect, your team remains informed and ready to adapt.
4. Reduced Network Downtime
Security incidents are frequently behind network downtime issues. Since solid security awareness training reduces incidents, it will in turn also reduce downtime.
Well-trained employees can also act quickly in the event of a security incident, minimizing the impact and duration of network downtime. They’ll know the steps to take, whom to notify, and how to contain the incident, if one occurs.
5. Save Time & Money
Security training is an investment, but it’s one that will lead to significant cost and time savings in the long run. This is because the costs associated with cyber attacks are often substantial, and training costs much less.
Furthermore, your team can quickly identify and address potential threats before they escalate into serious problems. Early detection saves time and resources that would be spent on lengthy and complicated recovery processes.
It also helps maintain the efficiency and productivity of your workforce, as they are not bogged down by the disruptions caused by security incidents.
6. Better Organizational Reputation
Actively promoting your commitment to cybersecurity awareness training can be a powerful part of your brand’s message. It shows that you are not just reactive in dealing with cyber threats but are taking preemptive steps to safeguard sensitive information.
This commitment resonates with the growing number of consumers who prioritize data security in their decision-making. In fact, 8 out of 10 consumers decide which companies to do business with based on their reputation for information security.
| Increase Security & So Much More With Professional Help |
Further Protect Your Business From Security Threats
Security awareness training is your first line of cyber defense. You need that line to truly keep your sensitive data secure. However, you don’t need to begin and end your cybersecurity program just with training.
Make your defenses even more effective by combining solid training with outsourced professionals. Nexix offers robust managed cybersecurity services and regular data backups.
With 17+ years in business and over 25 years of industry experience, we’re your trusted cybersecurity partner. Our team’s combined 60+ years of experience has served over 250 clients, and we’re here to help you improve your security posture.
Contact us today to find out more.