How can you test web application security awareness for board members?

1 Identify the objectives

Before you start the test, you need to define the objectives and scope of the test. What do you want to measure and improve? For example, you might want to assess the board members' knowledge of web application security concepts, such as encryption, authentication, authorization, and input validation. Or you might want to evaluate their ability to identify and respond to common web application attacks, such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting, or phishing. Or you might want to test their awareness of the web application security policies and procedures in your organization, such as password management, incident reporting, or security audits. Depending on your objectives, you can choose the appropriate tools and methods for the test.

2 Choose the tools and methods

There are different tools and methods you can use to test web application security awareness for board members. You can use online quizzes, surveys, or games to test their theoretical knowledge and understanding of web application security concepts and best practices. You can use simulated attacks, such as sending fake phishing emails or creating malicious web pages, to test their practical skills and behavior in realistic scenarios. You can use feedback sessions, workshops, or webinars to provide them with constructive feedback and guidance on how to improve their web application security awareness. You can also use metrics, such as scores, completion rates, or response times, to measure their progress and performance.

3 Plan the test

Once you have chosen the tools and methods for the test, you need to plan the test in detail. You must select the board members who will be involved and inform them about the purpose, scope, and duration of the test. You should also obtain their consent and ensure that they understand the ethical and legal implications. Furthermore, you need to schedule the test at a convenient time for the board members and decide how often and how long it will last. Additionally, you must choose a platform and format for delivering the test, such as online platforms or paper. Moreover, you need to design the content and difficulty of the test according to your objectives and the board members' level of web application security awareness. You can use existing resources or create your own content; you can also adjust the difficulty by varying the complexity, ambiguity, or frequency of questions or scenarios.

4 Conduct the test

After planning the test, you should conduct it according to your plan, making sure it is fair, valid, and reliable. You should also monitor the test and collect the data. To conduct the test effectively, you need to provide clear instructions and expectations to the board members. This includes explaining how to access and complete the test, what are the rules and consequences of the test, and what are the expected outcomes and benefits of the test. Furthermore, you need to provide support and assistance to board members during the test via online or offline channels such as chat, phone, or email. Additionally, you need to provide feedback and recognition after the test. This can be done with online or offline channels such as reports, certificates, or badges. You can also use positive reinforcement like praise, rewards, or incentives to motivate them and acknowledge their efforts.

5 Evaluate the test

Finally, you need to evaluate the test and its impact on the board members' web application security awareness. You should compare the results with the objectives, identify gaps and opportunities for improvement, and implement actions and recommendations based on your evaluation. Quantitative or qualitative methods, such as statistics, charts, or testimonials, can be used to illustrate and communicate your findings. SWOT analysis, root cause analysis, or gap analysis can help pinpoint and prioritize areas that need more attention or intervention. Action plans, roadmaps, or checklists can be used to define and execute steps that will enhance the board members' web application security awareness. Follow-up tests, surveys, or interviews can be used to monitor and measure the effectiveness and impact of your actions and recommendations.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?