Insider-caused data breaches are happening more often and at higher costs to companies, according to the Ponemon Institute.
Institute experts recommend stepping up efforts to minimize risk. One of the top steps you can take is to hire experts to train your employees on policies and procedures.
Here are five reasons why employee education is vital in protecting your network.
1. Security Will Become a Clear Priority
You’d hate to see your company make data breach history, and your employees would too. It’s hard to feel proud of a company doesn’t seem to care about security and privacy.
By setting aside company time for training, you’re showing employees your company is serious about security. This increases the chances that they will take it seriously as well.
2. You Will Raise Awareness and Provide Specific Directions
Anyone can fall victim to common cyber security risks. Knowledge is the top way to fight that.
Do your employees even know you have a security policy? Do they know what to do if they see something that concerns them or if they think they may have slipped up? Are they aware of what kinds of threats are out there today?
They will be if you bring in professionals to educate them properly. After all, nobody wants to see the employer who puts food on their table lose cash because of security-related legal bills.
3. Employee Education Makes Security Personal
It’s unlikely every employee feels personally responsible for security issues, such as protecting business data. It can feel like a responsibility that rests on IT’s shoulders. Teaching employees to protect your company helps them realize that it’s part of their daily job description.
One way education does this is by making security a personal problem. When employees learn that data breaches can release their own HR and payroll records, that can raise a red flag and inspire action.
Adding this personal touch also helps employees feel like they’re getting a benefit. They can use the tips they learn for their own accounts and home network.
4. People Will Open up to IT
Once employees gain a sense of their role in security, they will understand how important it is to be honest if they have a concern. They will be much more likely to report issues to the IT department or the managed services provider.
Having a reporting plan in place will make it much easier for employees to know what to report and how. Thanks their training, everybody on staff will be ready to react quickly.
5. Your Policy Will Fit Your Company
When you include employees in training, the direct interaction can help ensure everyone is on the same page about your polices and procedures. Giving employees the chance to ask questions, share concerns, and provide feedback may help you build a better plan for the future.
You’ll end up with a policy that works for your company’s needs and culture. You’re more likely to see success.
Get Expert Help with Employee Education for Superior Network Security
With professional employee education, you can get your network security in gear. If you’re ready to educate your employees, contact us to get started.
