Your employees are your first line of defense in cyber security, and their training is as crucial as the cutting-edge tools you’ve invested in. Are you overlooking this vital element?
We strongly advise you make an ongoing commitment to regular cyber security training for every single one of your team. That means keeping them up to date on the latest cyber threats, the warning signs to look out for, and of course, what to do should a situation arise.
If you’re not already doing that, arrange something now (we can help).
While you wait, here are some urgent cyber threats to address right away:
Admin attack
Email addresses like “info@” or “admin@” are often less protected due to perceived low risk. But several teams may require access to these accounts, making them an easy target. Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) can double your security. Even if it seems tedious, don’t neglect it.
MFA fatigue attacks
MFA can feel intrusive, leading employees to approve requests without scrutiny. Cyber criminals exploit this complacency with a flood of fake notifications. Encourage your team to meticulously verify all MFA requests.
Phishing bait
Phishing remains a top threat. Cyber criminals mimic trusted sources with deceptive emails. Teach your team to inspect email addresses closely. Implementing a sender policy framework can also enhance your protection.
Phishing scams are attempts to trick you into revealing your personal information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or Social Security numbers.
Scammers often send emails or text messages that appear to be from legitimate companies, such as banks, credit card companies, or government agencies. They may also create fake websites that look like real websites.
The three most common phishing scams are:
- Fake shopping websites, which sell counterfeit products – or even sell nothing at all. They collect your credit card information to sell to other hackers.
- Romance scams to trick people into falling in love, so they’ll be more willing to send money.
- Social media scams that either impersonate real people, or invent new personas entirely.
Other common internet scams include:
- Investment scams (yes, people still fall for these every day) that promise victims high returns on their investments, but the investments are actually fake.
- Tech support scams which claim to be a tech support company, but then charge for unnecessary services or steal personal information.
- Lottery and sweepstakes scams tell people that they have won a lottery or sweepstakes, but they need to pay a fee to claim their prize.
- Charity scams impersonate legitimate charities and ask for donations.
Cyber security training doesn’t have to be tedious. Try simulated attacks and think of them like an escape room challenge—fun yet enlightening. It’s about identifying vulnerabilities, not fault-finding.
Don’t exclude your leadership team. They need to understand the response plan in case of a breach, much like a fire drill.
If you receive an email, text, or call from someone who is asking for your personal information or money, be suspicious! Don’t click on anything until you verify the sender is who they say they are!