How secure is your business from cyber threats? You may have the latest technology in place, but the biggest risk often lies with your employees. In fact, employee behaviour plays a pivotal role in protecting or exposing your business to cyber threats.
In this blog, we’ll explore how simple actions – such as clicking on a phishing email and sharing sensitive data – can compromise your security, and how to build a cyber security awareness culture that keeps your business protected.
How Employee Behaviour Makes or Breaks Cyber Security
It might be tempting to believe that your business IT support Berkshire provider can shield you from all threats, but in reality, cyber security for small businesses in Berkshire requires a holistic approach.
Recent government research revealed that the most common preventative measure adopted following a breach was additional staff training, at 32% of businesses taking on this measure. This is because cyber-attacks often happen due to:
- Phishing and Social Engineering
This is where cybercriminals use social engineering techniques to manipulate employees into revealing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links. These attacks are increasingly sophisticated, with criminals crafting emails and messages that look legitimate, such as communications from banks, clients, or internal company systems. - Careless Sharing of Information
In an office environment, employees might carelessly send documents to the wrong email addresses, leave sensitive files unsecured on their desktops, or post too much information on social media. This is often exacerbated when employees are unaware of the implications of their actions or haven’t been educated on cyber security awareness. - Device Hygiene and Security
With employees using multiple devices – like laptops, smartphones, and tablets – it’s easy for cyber security to slip through the cracks. Employees may leave their devices unattended in public spaces, or fail to secure them with the latest security patches. Without strong device hygiene policies, lost or stolen devices can quickly lead to a data breach, especially if they contain sensitive information. - Remote Work Habits
The rise of remote working has introduced new challenges for cyber protection for businesses in Berkshire. While businesses can control their office networks and devices, employees working remotely often have more control over the security of their own environments. - Poor Cyber Awareness Among Staff
Cyber security training Berkshire businesses need to provide to their staff is often the most effective defence against cyber-attacks. Many breaches happen because employees don’t know what to look for, or are simply unaware of the risks involved in everyday actions. Cyber security is an ongoing process, and employees must be regularly updated on the latest threats and best practices.
Building a Strong Cyber Security Culture
To combat these cyber security risks, you need to establish a culture where cyber security is viewed as a shared responsibility, not just something handled by your IT department:
- Cyber Security Training and Awareness
This is an ongoing process that should evolve with new threats. Providing your team with regular training sessions helps them understand the importance of keeping company information safe and gives them the tools to do so. - Ongoing Cyber Awareness
Regular reminders and awareness campaigns help reinforce safe practices and encourage employees to stay vigilant. Regular security audits, follow-up training, and updates on emerging threats help keep cyber security top of mind for everyone. - Clear and Simple Policies
Policies around data protection, password management, and device security should be clear, accessible, and easy to follow. Clear policies create an environment where cyber protection for businesses in Berkshire should become part of your company’s DNA. - Leadership Buy-In and Support
When leadership is involved and visibly prioritises security, it sends a strong message to employees about the importance of cyber security. Leadership support ensures that resources are allocated to training and the necessary policies are put in place.
SolCo’s Managed IT Services for Berkshire Businesses
At SolCo, we specialise in helping businesses protect themselves from the inside out. We know that cyber security awareness Berkshire businesses rely on is key to mitigating risks and building strong, secure operations.
That’s why our managed IT services Berkshire include tailored training and awareness programs to ensure your staff are the first line of defence.
- Comprehensive Cyber Security Training: Training sessions designed to raise awareness, including recognising phishing attacks and following secure data-sharing protocols.
- Phishing Simulation and Testing: Regular tests to assess employee readiness and effectiveness, with actionable feedback to improve.
- Policy Creation and Support: We help you design simple, clear policies for managing passwords, devices, and sensitive data.
- 24/7 Monitoring and Support: Proactive monitoring of your systems to detect and respond to any security threats quickly.
Book a Consultation with Chris
Building a culture of cyber security awareness Berkshire businesses need starts with your employees. Their behaviour plays a huge role in your overall security.
By implementing ongoing training, clear policies, and leadership buy-in, you can create an environment where security is second nature.
If you’d like a fresh pair of eyes on your business’ cyber security posture, schedule a free review with Chris at SolCo. He’ll walk you through where you may be vulnerable now – no jargon, no pressure – just clear advice.
