Cyber Security: How can businesses minimise human error
Cyber security is a critical concern for businesses of all sizes. However, even with the best security practices in place, and the best/most up to date technology, there is still the cyber security concern of human error. Employees can inadvertently become the weakest link when it comes to cyber security, making it essential for businesses to implement strategies to minimise the risk of human error.
How Does Human Error Play A Part In Cyber Security?
When it comes to cyber security, human error can take many forms, some are listed below;
- Choosing weak passwords
- Duplicating the same password across multiple accounts/sites
- Falling for phishing scams
- Mishandling sensitive data
- Misconfiguration of security settings
These mistakes often stem from the lack of awareness, training, or attention to security practices.
Strategies Businesses Should Put In Place To Minimise Haman Error
There are various strategies businesses can put in place to mitigate the risk of human error when It comes to cyber security.
See the strategies below;
Employee Training Programmes
Regular employee training is the first line of defence.
Providing your business with engaging training sessions for your business can keep cyber security at the front of employees’ minds, and up-to-date with the latest threats and prevention techniques.
As well as general cyber security, the training should include;
- Phishing awareness with examples
- Safely sharing and backing up files
- Granting/limiting access permissions
- Training on password security
Any new should take part in cyber security training when joining the business. Every four to six months there should be a recap of the training, keep it engaging and switch it up a little each time. It’s crucial that all employees stay vigilant.
Creating A Security-Conscious Culture
Fostering a culture where security is everyone’s responsibility encourages employees to take an active role in protecting the company’s digital assets.
The regular training mentioned above will aid the security-conscious culture within the business, this is because the importance will be crystal clear and so will the awareness.
Simplify Security Processes
Complex security measures can lead to mistakes. Simplifying these processes with user-friendly tools and clear guidelines can reduce the likelihood of errors.
Processes In general should be as straightforward as possible, this is so they are easy to remember and follow. Employees are more willing to follow processes that doesn’t take much time to get to grips with.
Business cyber security processes should be the same, this will reduce the risk of human error.
Implementing Strong Password Polices
Enforcing password polices within your business which require strong, unique passwords for each account and site is a critical part of cyber security. Passwords should be updated every few months.
It’s important employees don’t use the same password more than once. This will mean lots of passwords to remember but this is made easy with a password manager such as BitWarden.
Regular Cyber Security Audits
Frequent audits can identify potential vulnerabilities before they are exploited and ensure that employees are following security protocols.
Your IT Support company can help with this. However, we can help you with this if you don’t have an IT support company in place.
Encouraging Open Communication
Create an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting potential security issues without fear of retribution can lead to quicker resolutions.
Utilising Technology To Support Employees
Tools such as, two-factor authentication, automatic updates, and intrusion detection systems can provide an additional layer of security and compensate for human error.
Conclusion
We hope this article has been useful and you can implement the strategies mentioned in your business. If you have any questions at all or require some support or advice, call our support team who’ll be happy to assist you with whatever you need.