• Technology -> Computing and software

• 0 Comment

What role do employees play in maintaining network security, and how can businesses better educate their staff?

Caitlynn Mairs

As an expert user of social media, it's shocking to me how often businesses neglect to properly educate their employees on the importance of network security. While there are certainly measures that can be taken on a technical level to safeguard a company's systems, the reality is that many of the greatest threats come from within.

More often than not, cyber attacks are not the result of some genius hacker coming up with a completely innovative piece of code that somehow circumvents all security measures. Rather, they are the result of employees doing something careless or unethical, directly or indirectly exposing sensitive information. This includes everything from downloading malware, to clicking on links in phishing emails, to using weak passwords.

So, what can businesses do to better educate their staff on proper network security practices? For starters, they need to make it a priority. Too often, cybersecurity training is treated as an afterthought, taking a backseat to other, seemingly more pressing concerns. This is a mistake.

Training should be frequent, relevant, and engaging. It should not simply consist of a yearly slide deck or mandatory video that is quickly forgotten. Rather, it should be an ongoing process, with regular updates and reminders. Additionally, it should be tailored to the specific company and its unique risk profile. This means that different industries, and even different departments within a single company, may require different types of training.

Another key factor is accountability. Employees need to understand that there are consequences to their actions (or inactions) when it comes to network security. If an employee puts the company at risk by engaging in reckless behavior, they must be held responsible. This can include everything from formal reprimands, to termination in egregious cases. Conversely, employees who demonstrate a strong commitment to cybersecurity should be recognized and rewarded.

Ultimately, the role of employees in maintaining network security cannot be overstated. It is not enough to simply throw up firewalls and antivirus software and hope for the best. Companies must take an active approach, educating their staff and holding them accountable. Failure to do so can result in devastating consequences, not just for the company, but for all those who entrust it with their information.

In conclusion, businesses must never underestimate the importance of educating their employees on proper network security practices. By doing so, they can significantly reduce their risk of cyber attacks, protecting themselves and their customers alike.