Security Awareness Training: A One Time Event or an Ongoing Process?

Security awareness training is a critical component of an organization’s security strategy. It can help protect organizations against malicious attacks, data loss, and other cyber threats. While many organizations may view security awareness training as a one-time event, it’s important to recognize that this type of training should be seen as an ongoing process. There are several key components that should be included in security awareness training to keep employees up-to-date on the latest threats and best practices.

8 Things to Include in Your Security Awareness Training

1. Train Employees On How To Recognize Phishing Attacks: Teach employees how to recognize suspicious emails, malicious links, and other messages that are commonly used by attackers. There are various resources available online such as phishing simulations that can help organizations build effective security awareness training for their employees.
2. Educate Employees About Data Loss Prevention: Build an understanding of the data loss prevention (DLP) tools used in your organization, and how they can be applied to protect data assets. Regularly remind employees about which files should not be shared publicly and which platforms should be used to securely transmit sensitive information.
3. Teach the Basics of Password Security: Educate employees on best practices when it comes to creating, managing, and protecting passwords. The importance of password security should be continually communicated as periodic password changes are encouraged.
4. Address Mobile Device Security: Provide guidance on how to use mobile devices securely in the workplace. With so many work from home options, mobile devices are frequently targeted for sensitive information.
5. Introduce Malware and Ransomware Prevention Tactics: Explain what malware is and provide strategies for avoiding it. The best practices of using anti-virus software and regularly updating their systems should be discussed.
6. Promote Safe Internet Browsing: Show employees how to safely browse the internet by using tools like ad blockers, VPNs, and anti-malware software.
7. Educate Employees on Social Engineering: Explain the dangers of social engineering and provide tips for recognizing and avoiding it. For example, educate employees on the importance of not providing any confidential information over email or phone.
8. Make Security Awareness Training Interactive: Use a combination of interactive activities, online quizzes, and videos to keep employees engaged in the training. When it comes to security, understanding the material is key.

By implementing an ongoing security awareness training program, organizations can ensure that their employees are better informed and better prepared to thwart malicious attacks. Additionally, employee engagement with security will increase which can help reduce the risk of a data breach or other cyber incident. Security awareness training should be regarded not as a one-time event, but as an ongoing process that is continuously refined and improved.