Australian organisations are seeing improvements when it comes to cyber security. For one, cyber security training is on an uptrend, as shown below.  

FISCAL YEAR  ENTITIES WITH CYBER SECURITY TRAINING AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR 
FY 2020-21  63% 
FY 2021-22  68% 
FY 2022-23  78% 

Businesses are on the right path. However, all efforts should be sustained to keep a step ahead of the ever-evolving cyber threats. 

 

Human Errors in Cyber Security 

The leading cause of data breaches is still human error, which includes: 

  • Sending emails or documents to the wrong recipients 
  • Publishing personal information online by mistake 
  • Losing devices or paper records 
  • Failing to secure passwords or encryption keys 

The Notifiable Data Breaches Report: January to June 2023 revealed that 96% of breaches were caused either by direct human error or by system faults (which often involve human error). These breaches can lead to operational disruptions, reputational damage and more as explained in this article on the impacts of cyber security threats. So what can you do to prevent them? 

 

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Cyber Security Training 

Leading your list of things to do to prevent data breaches should be educating your staff in digital protection. To equip your employees as your first line of defence, your cyber security training should cover key topics, including: 

  1. Threat Intelligence: The latest trends in cybercrime, including new attack methods
  2. Social Engineering: Recognise techniques used to trick people into revealing sensitive information
  3. Password Management: Best practices for creating and managing strong passwords
  4. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): How to add security layers, such as a personal identification numbers (PINs), biometrics, one-time passwords, or an authenticator app
  5. Phishing Awareness: How to identify and avoid phishing attempts
  6. Malware: Different types of malware and how to avoid them
  7. Mobile Device Security: Best practices for securing mobile phones
  8. Cloud Security: Best practices for securing data and applications in the cloud
  9.  Data Protection: The importance of and best practices in keeping sensitive data safe
  10. Incident Response: How to respond to a cyber security incident 
  11. Attack Simulations: Practical exercises and penetration tests to help trainees apply what they’ve learned

 

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Why Cyber Security Training is Important to Your Business 

Cyber-attacks now are more sophisticated and happen more frequently, so cyber security training is no longer an option. Training is a must-have that stresses the importance of digital safety. 

Investing in training services from a cyber security company in Perth can enable you to:  

  • Protect your data, systems, and networks from cyber threats 
  • Improve employee awareness and skills in preventing, detecting, and responding to cyber threats 
  • Enhance your reputation and build customer trust in your business 
  • Demonstrate your commitment to cyber resilience and compliance 

More importantly, you can minimise human error – especially if you apply the tips below.

 

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How to Make Cyber Security Training Effective 

Trainings should be checked-on and consistently optimised. Don’t settle for a one-off or an annual training. Run regular sessions and/or exercises so you can: 

  • Help staff keep up-to-date with cyber security solutions and threats 
  • Reinforce cyber security awareness and culture 
  • Greatly reduce human risks and data breaches 
  • Keep honing skills and confidence in handling incidents 
  • Solidify your commitment to keeping your business cyber safe 

At Inspired IT, we have other ideas about cyber awareness training in Perth. Here are some to make it more effective: 

  • Use Real-world Scenarios: Use real-world examples and practical simulations to make it more relatable and engaging to learners. 
  • Interactive Learning: Drive active learning with quizzes, games, and group activities, which help retain information better. 
  • Clear Communication: Ensure that the training materials are easy to understand. Avoid technical jargon. Explain complex ideas in simple terms, using familiar examples and metaphors. 
  • Foster a Security Culture: Encourage your staff to take ownership of their roles and make security a permanent part of their work. You can also incentivise their contributions whenever possible. 

 

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Instil Cyber Security Learning into Your Culture 

Enhance your organisation’s culture by ingraining learning and growth into it. Here are some things that can help you get there: 

Leadership Involvement 

Your leaders must provide a clear direction. They should actively promote cyber security and demonstrate its importance. They must show their commitment to protecting the business by investing in training programs. 

Regular Communication 

A well-informed team is a strong first line of defence against threats. Provide regular cyber security news and information to your staff. Facilitate the sharing of new information among employees.  

Rewarding Compliance 

Recognise employees who follow cyber security guidelines and participate in training activities. You could mention contributions made during the week in your regular meetings and hand out simple tokens or rewards. 

Learning from Mistakes 

Keep improving your cyber security training program. Learn from past breaches and other businesses’ experiences. Teach your staff to gain insights from others and to make every situation a learning opportunity.  

Inclusive Approach 

Learning and growth is everyone’s responsibility. Ensure all staff are involved, regardless of role. A collective approach further strengthens your defences and can help you find and strengthen the gaps in your cyber security. 

 

Give Your Employees The Key To Protect Your Business 

While human errors in cyber security cause most data breaches, you can turn the situation around by making your human resources your first line of defence. Don’t wait for cyber-attacks – start your cyber security staff training journey today.  

If you need further guidance, check out our Cyber as a Service today and make sure you are always ahead of the game. For more information about Cyber-as-a-Service, read Introducing Cyber-As-A-Service – Your Path To Cyber Security Excellence.