How to Start a Security Awareness Training Program: 5 Mistakes to Avoid

All the security tools in the world are incomplete without trained users. Security awareness training programs exist to educate users and equip them with the skills to be the last line of defense against cyberattacks. Even with the best intentions, user awareness training programs can fall flat. Here is how to start a security awareness training program with the five key mistakes to avoid to truly increase security.

1. Lack of organizational buy-in

Developing a true, company-wide security awareness training program means that multiple departments need to have involvement: IT will be responsible for deployment and management, HR for ensuring all employees are involved and executive leadership to manage adaptation.  Therefore, it is important that as a first step there is inter-departmental buy-in with key players. The major players must be on board and understand the value of a program. This support is critical for a trickle-down effect of getting company buy-in and participation.

2. Inconsistent Security Awareness Program

Three billion phishing emails are sent every day. Is one, 30-minute training a year enough to keep employees vigilant and educated on such attacks? A truly effective program is consistent and year-round to keep it top of mind for all users.

3. Only checking a requirement box​

Cybersecurity insurance companies are now requiring security awareness training programs as a prerequisite to coverage. State regulations and mandates also require security protections and training. Regardless of your reason for implementing a program, simply checking the requirement is not enough. To be frank, it is a waste of money and resources. User awareness programs are empowering and reap years of defense while deploying a single simulated phishing attack does little.

4. Utilizing generic tactics​

Attackers are sneaky. When the payday is big enough, attackers will do their research and due diligence into crafting appropriate messages for an individual and organization. If obvious, generic templates are used during simulated training attacks, users are not getting the most beneficial experience or developing a keen eye.

5. Lack of a dedicated resource​

Not having a dedicated resource to implement, track and customize your program puts the organization at a disadvantage. Security awareness training programs require a fairly heavy lift to implement and a variety of upkeep tasks. We’ll be honest, the initial setup is not incredibly long. However, the value is not in a single running, but rather how organizations create custom, ongoing training.

At the end of the day remember: people, users and employees are the targets of cyberattacks – not security tools and machines. If you’re spending the money on a user awareness training program, then move the needle and properly educate users by avoiding common mistakes.

Now that you know what not to do, learn how to start a security awareness training program today!

Ask Brite about leveraging KnowBe4 for user awareness training and phishing simulation.