Security awareness training is now used by organisations of every size. Training can take many forms, from lectures to cloud based modules and phishing simulations, but the purpose is the same: helping employees recognise risks and reduce the likelihood of security incidents.

Security awareness training is important because it helps your organisation

• Protect credentials and log in details
• Prevent unauthorised access
• Keep customer and business data secure
• Protect reputation
• Reduce financial risk

Training helps protect credentials

Phishing is one of the most common and successful attack methods. Criminals create convincing emails and fake login pages designed to steal passwords for common services such as Microsoft 365 or Gmail. Once credentials are stolen, attackers can freely access company systems.

Technical controls such as spam filters and multifactor authentication are essential, but they do not catch every threat. Employees need to know how to recognise suspicious messages, report them quickly and understand why additional security controls matter.

Training helps prevent unauthorised access

Phishing is not the only method attackers use to gain access to systems or premises. Physical infiltration remains a common risk.

Tailgating, where an unauthorised person follows an employee into a secure area, is one of the simplest ways attackers enter offices. Training helps employees recognise and report tailgating, protect ID badges and follow practices such as clear desk policies to prevent accidental exposure of sensitive information.

Training reduces the likelihood of data breaches

Attackers exploit a wide range of techniques to steal information. Phishing, spyware, credential theft and man in the middle attacks all target personal and business data. Criminals then sell or use this information for further attacks such as identity theft.

Training helps employees understand secure behaviour whether they work in the office, at home or on public networks. This reduces risk and helps protect both company and customer data.

Training protects your company’s reputation

Consumers increasingly prioritise data privacy and security when choosing who to buy from. A serious breach can damage trust and drive customers away.

Security training helps reduce the likelihood of a breach and reinforces why daily secure behaviour matters. When employees understand the reputational impact of a breach, they are more likely to stay alert and follow best practice.

Security awareness training saves money

Cyber incidents are expensive. In 2020, the average breach for a small business cost around eight thousand five hundred pounds, with far higher costs for larger organisations. With thirty nine percent of businesses experiencing a breach, training that prevents even a single incident can pay for itself.

Get started with a complete security awareness platform

Security awareness training and phishing simulations are essential for reducing human error and strengthening your organisation’s defences.

usecure provides automated cloud based training, personalised learning paths and realistic phishing simulations to help reinforce secure behaviour. Start a fourteen day free trial to see how security awareness training can reduce risk across your business.