Human error is now the leading source of security risks for small businesses. In fact, one study suggests that human error is at the root of 95% of all data breaches.1 Educating your staff about cybersecurity is the most reliable way to lower this risk factor.
- Mimecast. (n.d.). Human risk has surpassed technology gaps as the biggest cybersecurity challenge for organizations around the globe as demonstrated in the findings of our SOHR 2025 Report.
https://www.mimecast.com/resources/ebooks/state-of-human-risk-2025
Here are some strategies for keeping your team informed about IT security:
Make Security a Visible Company-Wide Priority
IT security must be a team effort, where every person understands their unique role in keeping systems secure. It may be reporting suspicious activity, or being mindful of how they handle data, or staying alert to new social engineering tactics.
Without this sense of shared responsibility, there will be some staff that assume security is handled by “someone else”, with potentially serious consequences.
Invest in Ongoing Cybersecurity Training
Phishing scams and other social engineering efforts target people before they target systems—and these tactics are constantly evolving. Just 10 minutes of cybersecurity training each month keeps your team aware of what’s out there and how to respond to emerging threats.
IronOak IT has prepared a catalog of 10 common training categories and over 70 short engaging courses that you can take. See the catalog here, and contact us to discuss enrolling today.
Conduct Regular Security Drills and Exercises
Like fire drills, having an IT security drill will simulate real-world scenarios, so your team is confident, alert and ready to respond should something happen.
By keeping your entire organization informed about cyber threats and response protocols, you can reduce the risk of human error and data breaches.