Cybersecurity is not only about technology, but also about people. Human behavior can make or break the security of your data, systems, and networks. In this article, you will learn how to improve cybersecurity with better human behavior, by following some simple but effective principles and practices.
The first step to improve cybersecurity with better human behavior is to be aware of the potential threats and vulnerabilities that you face. Cyberattacks can come from different sources, such as hackers, scammers, competitors, insiders, or even state actors. They can target your personal information, your business data, your intellectual property, or your critical infrastructure. They can use various techniques, such as phishing, malware, ransomware, denial-of-service, or social engineering. Knowing the risks can help you to be more vigilant and prepared.
Education and Training: ? Regularly educate employees, users, and stakeholders about cybersecurity best practices, threats, and risks. ? Provide training on identifying phishing emails, social engineering tactics, and other common cyber threats. ? Conduct simulated phishing exercises to test and reinforce awareness. Cultivate a Security Culture: ? Foster a culture of cybersecurity awareness and responsibility throughout the organization. ? Recognize and reward individuals who actively contribute to a strong cybersecurity posture.
Improving cybersecurity through better human behavior is essential. Education, training, and awareness programs help employees recognize and thwart threats like phishing. Emphasizing strong password hygiene, secure device practices, and data handling is crucial. Clear policies, leadership engagement, and consequences for non-compliance reinforce the importance of cybersecurity. Regular testing and audits ensure ongoing vigilance. A security-conscious culture, where employees understand their role, is key in reducing risks and safeguarding the organization's digital assets.
The second step to improve cybersecurity with better human behavior is to follow the policies and procedures that your organization or industry has established. These policies and procedures are designed to protect your data, systems, and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, modification, or destruction. They may include rules for password management, data encryption, access control, backup and recovery, incident response, and compliance. Following the policies and procedures can help you to avoid mistakes and breaches.
In my experience, the people aspect of cybersecurity gets neglected way too often by companies. Companies are eager to spend on technology and tools to combat cyber threats, but do not adequately train employees on cyber security, often leaving a gap in their over all cyber defense strategy
"The premise of this question is flawed; we exist in a world defined by conflict, self-interest, and financial pursuits. It is crucial to recognize that cybersecurity can only be effectively implemented through technical expertise. Hoping to alter the behavior of the entire global population is an unrealistic aspiration, as we cannot govern the actions of others. Instead, knowledge is the sole avenue through which we can mitigate these challenges."
The third step to improve cybersecurity with better human behavior is to educate yourself on the best practices and trends in cybersecurity. Technology is constantly evolving, and so are the cyber threats and solutions. You need to stay updated and informed on the latest developments and innovations in cybersecurity, such as new tools, methods, standards, or regulations. You also need to learn how to recognize and respond to common cyberattacks, such as how to spot a phishing email , how to avoid malicious links or attachments , or how to report a suspicious activity. Educating yourself can help you to enhance your skills and knowledge.
While you, as a security professional, will need to keep abreast of the current threat landscape and what new and emerging technology is available there is also a responsibility to know your audience. Security awareness training must be relevant both to the organisation and to the people you are trying to educate. If you can analogise the threats to personal risks such as online banking, shopping, home security, scams etc you will resonate with your colleagues much better. There is little point in talking about technical configurations of DLP, IDS or risk appetites to a group of non technical staff. Make the training relevant to what they will likely experience. Keep it informative, keep it light but above all make it relevant.
The fourth step to improve cybersecurity with better human behavior is to be responsible for your actions and decisions. Cybersecurity is not only a technical issue, but also a ethical and legal one. You need to respect the privacy and confidentiality of your data, systems, and networks, and those of others. You need to adhere to the principles and values of your organization or industry, and the laws and regulations of your country or region. You need to avoid any behavior that could compromise the security or integrity of your data, systems, or networks, such as sharing passwords, downloading unauthorized software, or using unsecured devices or networks. Being responsible can help you to build trust and reputation.
In today's world, the choices we make regarding our digital behavior have far-reaching consequences. Respecting privacy and maintaining the confidentiality of data is not only a moral duty but also a way to foster trust and integrity. Adhering to organizational values and industry standards, as well as complying with local regulations, is a fundamental aspect of responsible cyber behavior. By following these principles, we not only contribute to a safer online space but also establish a solid foundation for trust and credibility, both in our personal lives and within our professional endeavors.
The fifth step to improve cybersecurity with better human behavior is to collaborate with others. Cybersecurity is not a solo effort, but a team effort. You need to work with your colleagues, managers, customers, partners, vendors, or regulators to ensure the security of your data, systems, and networks. You need to communicate effectively and transparently, share information and feedback, coordinate actions and responsibilities, and support each other in case of incidents or emergencies. Collaborating with others can help you to leverage the collective intelligence and resources of your network.
As a security professional communication is key with a need to be able to understand and translate between technical and non-technical disciplines. We are often required to present non-profitable benefits representing value to senior management. Likewise you need to be able to empower non-technical staff to be able to identify the soft threats that will slip through technical measures. Involving different disciplines in the assessment of risks in their area or process and seek their advice during the development of controls and how effectiveness will be measured will ensure they are informed and have a sense of ownership. This will help understand the processes and potentially mitigate the introduction of adverse effort.
To safeguard data, systems, and networks, it's crucial to collaborate with a range of stakeholders, including colleagues, managers, customers, partners, vendors, and regulators. This means fostering open, transparent communication and freely sharing information and feedback. Coordinating actions and responsibilities is pivotal, and offering support to one another during incidents or emergencies is a testament to our collective strength. By working together, we tap into the collective wisdom and resources of our network, creating a more resilient defense against cyber threats. Cybersecurity is, indeed, a team sport.
The sixth step to improve cybersecurity with better human behavior is to adapt to changes. Cybersecurity is not a static state, but a dynamic process. You need to be flexible and agile, and ready to adjust your behavior and practices according to the changing environment and circumstances. You need to monitor and evaluate the performance and effectiveness of your data, systems, and networks, and identify any gaps or weaknesses. You need to implement and test new solutions and improvements, and learn from your successes and failures. Adapting to changes can help you to stay ahead of the curve and the competition.