For all businesses, it’s important to stay protected and vigilant against the latest cyber threats, especially as attacks are on the rise and can result in stolen data, financial losses, and a loss of trust with customers. While many businesses of all sizes might invest in cyber security training and education, that once-a-year session simply doesn’t cut it like it used to.
Here, we’ll explore why a yearly training course isn’t enough to defend your business and ensure your staff are properly able to navigate the many potential risks from malware, ransomware, phishing emails, and more.
If you’re concerned about the training or lack thereof at your business, you could benefit from a more thorough training approach. Our cyber security training services at Woodstock IT could be the ideal solution.
Call us on 01403 290 321 or email [email protected] to discuss your requirements and request a free, no-obligation quote.
Why isn’t annual cyber security training effective?
- Often not very engaging
- Can feel like a checkbox exercise
- Minimal retention of information
- New threats emerge throughout the year.
Annual cyber security training often fails to meet its intended objectives due to its periodic and formal nature, which may not resonate with employees and can feel more like a checkbox exercise than an engaging learning experience.
Many employees might view these sessions as obligations rather than valuable opportunities to enhance their digital safety skills, leading to disengagement and minimal retention of the information presented.
The rapidly evolving landscape of cyber threats makes once-a-year training insufficient. Cybercriminals are continually developing new techniques and strategies to breach security measures, and year-old information may already be outdated.
The solution? Small, regular training sessions
More frequent and interactive training sessions are necessary to keep pace with cyber security changes and keep cyber security at the forefront of employees’ minds. Incorporating regular updates, real-time simulations, and interactive elements into training can transform it from a mundane task into a dynamic and essential part of workplace culture, resulting in more proactive and security-conscious staff.
To really build a culture of cyber security in your business, it’s better to offer small, human-focused training sessions that connect with staff on a personal level. These sessions should remind people to be aware and careful about what they’re clicking on and how to spot suspicious links.
Benefits of regular training for employees
The knowledge to navigate risks
In today’s tech-centric environment, where generative AI and various third-party tools are integral to daily operations, training employees with the necessary knowledge to navigate potential risks is essential.
While this vast array of digital tools boosts efficiency, security vulnerabilities are also opened. To mitigate these risks, employees need more than just a basic understanding; they need ongoing guidance and practical strategies that annual training can’t provide. Regular updates to company policies and timely reminders about data security protocols can help reinforce each employee’s role in protecting an organisation’s sensitive data.
A continuous learning environment and a security-first culture can ensure teams are not just aware of the risks but are well-prepared to tackle them.
Better cyber security skills and habits
Rather than inundating staff with excessive information in an intensive annual session, a more effective approach involves integrating cyber security best practices into daily work routines, supported by regular training. This method helps employees assimilate security measures naturally over time, creating mindfulness for potential threats and safe practices.
This ongoing support system reinforces the training material and also empowers employees to apply their knowledge practically and consistently. The goal is to create an environment where making secure choices becomes second nature without overwhelming anyone.
Keeping pace with the latest developments
While annual cyber security courses provide a foundational understanding, the dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of cyber threats necessitates a more continuous, engaging strategy for cyber security education. This shift – moving beyond the traditional once-a-year training model – allows your business and your staff to keep pace with the latest developments in cyber security awareness.
As employees are regularly given up-to-date information on security, they’re in a better position to be proactive and responsive to the changing landscape of cybersecurity threats, making your business more resilient.
Our cyber security training services
An experienced security professional with expertise in running regular training sessions should be able to offer beneficial cybersecurity courses for your business. These courses can be an essential part of your security strategy. Investing in expert-led training can help safeguard your business’s sensitive data and infrastructure, ensuring that your team is prepared to manage and mitigate potential security threats.
At Woodstock IT, we are experienced cyber security professionals who can offer your business in-depth training, ongoing support, and guidance to help ensure you’re protected against malware and have strategies in place to prevent cyber attacks.
Our comprehensive training programme includes hands-on experience and best practices for cyber security and can guide you in creating robust incident response plans. Our cyber security specialists can also tailor our training and course content to each individual business we work with.
As part of our services, we can support you in the Cyber Essentials Certification process—an effective Government-backed scheme that helps protect businesses from common cyber threats.
Speak to our team
Please contact us for more information on our training programme, Cyber Essentials Certification, and our range of cyber security services, including antivirus software and IT security audits.
Our services and cyber expertise have benefited many local, national, and international businesses and organisations, ensuring they have effective network security and computer systems.
