From The Desk of the CISO

Essential Elements of Security Awareness Training

By Rob Ashcraft, CISO at KeyStone Solutions

Cyber security classroom training with tables and shield on screen

Security awareness training is crucial for small and medium businesses (SMBs) to protect against cyber threats. The training should begin with basic cybersecurity principles, such as understanding common threats like phishing, malware, and ransomware. Employees should learn how to recognize suspicious emails, avoid clicking on unknown links, and report potential security incidents. This training is important but not the only essential element that SMB’s need to ensure are covered in their security awareness training program.

For example, emphasizing the importance of strong, unique passwords and the use of multi-factor authentication can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Another essential element is data protection and privacy. Employees must be aware of the types of sensitive information they handle and the best practices for safeguarding it. This includes understanding data encryption, secure file sharing, and proper disposal of confidential documents. Training should also cover compliance with relevant regulations, such as HIPAA, PCI-DSS, GDPR, and U.S. state privacy laws, to ensure that your organization is meeting all legal requirements and reducing the risk of costly penalties.

Finally, incident response should be a key component of the training. Employees need to know what their roles are and steps to take if a security incident occurs, including how to recognize a potential attack, who to notify, and how to report the incident. Also, advanced training is needed for roles that are assigned to handling security incidents and recovery steps. Regular drills and simulations can help prepare staff for real-world scenarios, ensuring they respond quickly and effectively. By covering these basic elements I have mentioned, SMB organizations can create a robust security culture, reduce risk, and enhances overall resilience to cyber threats.