How do you find reliable security awareness information?

The first thing to do is threat modelling, a technique that we can do both for ourselves and for our organisation: 1. What are our assets? 2. What are the threats? 3. What can we put between our assets and the threats? Exactly as it's defined in the OSSTMM security is a separating function. Let's take our passwords. Our threats are different, the people we have around (so it's good not to leave the password written in a Post-it or in on a notebook seen on Amazon); Malwares (so we can't leave them saved directly in browsers or lying around in files on the pc). How can we separate passwords from threats? By using a password manager, there are even open source ones, which need to be back upped either on an external disk an encrypted online.

The first step in finding reliable security awareness information is to clearly define your specific needs and goals. In my experience, taking the time to assess the risks and challenges unique to your role or industry can significantly narrow down your search. For instance, when I first started focusing on cybersecurity, I realized my main challenge was understanding phishing attacks. By identifying this gap, I was able to target resources that provided comprehensive insights into phishing tactics and prevention strategies, which ultimately enhanced my knowledge and readiness.

Use trusted security podcasts and video channels hosted by industry experts for timely updates and practical advice.Analyze benchmark reports and surveys from reputable cybersecurity firms to understand emerging trends and best practices.

Geez just follow me, I post a ton of stuff related to cyber security awareness! The more info we get out there, the better off everyone is!

Evaluating the credibility of sources is essential in navigating the vast amount of security information available. I often rely on a set of criteria, including the author’s qualifications and the reputation of the publishing organization. For example, I tend to favor content from established cybersecurity organizations like SANS or CISA, as they have a proven track record of delivering accurate and relevant information. When I came across an article discussing new ransomware trends, I cross-referenced it with multiple authoritative sources to confirm its accuracy, which helped me feel confident in applying the insights I gained.

To understand what the threat information is, one can refer to several sources. Primarily at the organizational level is the CERT-if there is one-or at any rate the security structures that additionally use modes of collaboration with other official sturttures related to the relevant sector. Organizations such as SANS also do their best to offer information on this, as do national CERTs. On the other hand, one must be very careful about items such as chain letters that may have a kernel of truth but are often then fallacious in subsequent reasoning.

Security awareness training can take various forms. There are numerous options for the different requirements of companies. The classic type of security awareness training is classroom training. The seminar leader leads the training and conveys the various topics using theoretical content, practical examples and exercises. Questions and special topics from participants can be integrated directly into the training. The online training can be carried out by participants individually at work or from home. Security awareness training can be supplemented with information material. For example, posters with important content on the topic of security can be placed in coffee kitchens or information flyers can be distributed in the workplace.

When it comes to learning style, it's helpful to understand your own style. For awareness issues it's usually important that some concepts be internalized, and one of the usual methods is Repetita iuvant, so often micro-content in pills that can then develop practical habits are a useful element. Simulations are also useful in that they serve to make practical a skill that is not just theoretical.

Different formats of security awareness information cater to various learning styles, and it’s crucial to choose one that resonates with you. Personally, I find that podcasts and webinars fit seamlessly into my busy schedule, allowing me to absorb valuable information while commuting or multitasking. However, I also appreciate detailed reports and infographics when I have the time to dive deeper into a topic. By experimenting with various formats, I discovered that a combination of visual content and audio resources helps reinforce my understanding of complex security concepts.

Recognizing false reports – These criteria indicate untruths: ?? Information is vague and incomplete ?? Unclear authorship ?? Unknown sources ?? Exclusive sources ?? Doubtful authenticity of quotes ?? Outdated report ?? The report is just too funny ?? Unbalanced, non-objective reports ?? Sensational headline

Verification of information is a critical step that I always prioritize. In one instance, I encountered a blog claiming a particular software was the ultimate solution for all cybersecurity issues. Rather than accepting it at face value, I took the initiative to cross-check the claims with industry reviews and expert opinions. This practice not only safeguarded me from potentially misleading information but also equipped me with a more nuanced understanding of the software’s capabilities and limitations.

One element that usually works in organizational change programs is to elect Champions. People who are well informed and who can apply the leading by example principle, training other people and offering advice. This applies to issues of Awareness but in general to important changes in habits.

The ultimate goal of seeking out reliable security awareness information is to actively apply it to improve your security practices. I’ve found that taking actionable steps after learning is key to retaining knowledge. For example, after studying a new security framework, I organized a workshop for my team to share the insights and discuss how we could integrate them into our existing protocols. This not only reinforced my learning but also contributed to a collective culture of security awareness within our organization.

A change in perspectives is helpful for successful security awning. IT security is as good as the person who serves the systems. For this reason, we do not see people as a security gap, but as a defense umbrella against cyber attacks. The widespread rhetoric of the "factor human" can tend to appear destructively. Man is not part of the problem, but as a "security-factor man" part of the solution. It is important to make the interface between humans and the machine better.

I believe that community engagement can greatly enhance the search for reliable security awareness information. Joining forums or online groups related to cybersecurity allows individuals to exchange experiences, resources, and insights. In my experience, participating in these communities has exposed me to diverse perspectives and valuable recommendations that I might not have found through traditional research. For example, I discovered a lesser-known but highly effective resource for security training through a discussion thread, which has since become an integral part of my professional development.