What is Security Awareness?
What is security awareness? Security awareness refers to the knowledge and understanding individuals possess about computer and network security, as well as the actions they take to safeguard against cyber threats. It is essential for employees to be aware of information security and to feel a sense of responsibility for maintaining it. This awareness helps prevent cyberattacks by encouraging precautionary behaviors, such as refraining from sharing confidential information or clicking on suspicious links. Despite the best efforts, human error accounts for more than 90% of severe cyber incidents, making it crucial for employees to stay vigilant at all times.
First, understand, then report
It’s not just about awareness, but also about understanding the potential threats. And more importantly, the impact of potential cyber-attacks on the company and its employees.
With greater understanding, action is also taken more quickly and appropriately. Employees know what incidents to report and can thus act more quickly on a potential threat.
Help the IT department with Security Awareness
Employees often underestimate the crucial role they play in ensuring information security. Many assume that IT departments handle all security measures or that tools like virus scanners and firewalls are sufficient to protect company data. However, this mindset can leave organizations vulnerable. So, what is security awareness, and why is it so important?
Security awareness refers to the understanding and mindset employees need to identify and respond to potential threats to information security. Establishing a clear policy and effectively communicating it to all employees is essential. By fostering a proactive attitude toward data protection, companies can ensure that more employees align with updated security measures.
Because most individuals do not naturally adopt these new practices, it is necessary to train employees specifically in this area. This is often achieved through Security Awareness Training, which equips employees with the knowledge and tools to protect sensitive information effectively.
Repetition of Security Awareness makes one learn
Security Awareness training is not a one-time action. On the contrary, it is necessary to continuously update knowledge and skills and continuously increase awareness. This can be achieved by applying various techniques in training sessions. For example, experiences with live hacking can be used to increase knowledge. Sending fictitious phishing emails provides a practical test and makes employees alert to possible intrusions and teaches them to recognize risks.
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Interested in scheduling a security awareness training? Or curious about how to raise awareness for your company? Then contact us using the form below. We’ll be happy to answer all your questions!