One of the best investments a company can make is IT Security Awareness.
But what is it? And why is it critical to protect your data?
What is IT Security Awareness?
IT Security awareness means training and educating your employees about Information Technology.
This training involves the following:
- programs to educate your staff
- obligations for the company’s security policies
- reviews to check these steps
Also, this IT security awareness is not a one-time event. Instead, it should be a continuous practice and habit.
Additionally, this training and program have four stages:
- Knowing the current status
- Creating a security awareness program
- Applying program to employees
- Measuring progress and revising if needed
Why do we need IT Security Awareness?
Cyberattacks are now a problem worldwide. The increase in Internet users surely affected cybersecurity.
Besides, hacking became easier to do now. A few years ago, you have to be a top programmer to hack. But now, you do not have to attain hundreds of technical skills like top programmers.
Additionally, these attacks are becoming more disastrous. You could lose money from your business.
Also, it can damage the reputation of your company. Above all, if hackers attack government agencies, they can even risk private data.
What are the types of IT security awareness?
Web-based Training
Some organizations give live and web-based training. Also, a two-way interaction can be beneficial to the employees. You can offer simulation games, videos, and live-trainers.
Classroom Training
Classroom training is the traditional method. It uses a question-and-answer period to test the knowledge of an employee. Thus, real-time checking of progress will be successful.
Security Awareness Webpages
Other companies put up a website to address security policies. It can also address the following:
- file-sharing security
- copyright desktop security
- wireless network connectivity
- password security
Digital Prompts
From time to time, you can also program a digital prompt when they open their computers. Tips and reminders such as “change passwords regularly” or “run a virus scan.” These can help them stay alert and reminded always.
Visual Aids
One of the best security awareness education is putting up visual aids. It can be a catchy poster about password security.
Highlighting Recent Attacks
It is also helpful for your company to inform your employees about cyberattack news.
Why? It will help your employees understand the danger of these attacks.
Moreover, do not just inform them about the big attacks. Let them also know about the small cyber incidents.
Most importantly, try to look for cyber attack news that is related to your company.
Professional Services
If you haven’t applied any of the above, do not worry. You can contact a cybersecurity professional to help you. They will handle your cybersecurity issues. Also, they will help you establish a good security awareness program. And make up for the lost time of awareness.
If you have applied one or two of the above, do not be so overconfident. It is not a bad idea to contact a security consultant. They can also help you find out areas where you need to improve.