Are your employees reporting security issues quickly enough, or at all?

Ensuring your team reports security issues promptly is crucial for your business, even if it hasn't been a top priority.

Despite the array of security tools available, your employees are your first line of defense against cyber threats. They play a vital role in identifying and reporting security issues, such as phishing emails, which can lead to significant data breaches if ignored.

Consider a scenario where an employee receives a suspicious email that appears to be from a trusted source. It could be a phishing attempt, where a cybercriminal poses as someone else to steal data. If the employee ignores it or assumes someone else will address it, that seemingly harmless email could result in a major data breach, costing your company dearly.

The reality is, less than 10% of employees report phishing emails to their security teams, which is alarmingly low. There are several reasons for this:

• Some employees may not realize the importance of reporting.
• They might fear getting in trouble if they report incorrectly.
• They may think it's someone else's responsibility.
• Previous experiences of being shamed for security mistakes can discourage reporting.

One of the primary reasons employees don't report security issues is simply a lack of understanding. They may not recognize what a security threat looks like or understand why reporting it is crucial. This is where education plays a crucial role, but it should be engaging and relatable.

Think of cybersecurity training as an interactive experience. Use real-life examples to demonstrate how a minor issue can escalate into a major problem if left unreported. Simulate phishing attacks to illustrate potential consequences. Make it clear that everyone has a role in keeping the company safe. When employees understand that their actions can prevent a disaster, they'll be more inclined to report suspicious activity.

Even if employees want to report an issue, a complex reporting process can deter them. Ensure your reporting process is simple and straightforward. Provide easy-access buttons or quick links on your company's intranet.

Ensure everyone knows how to report an issue by providing regular reminders and clear instructions. When someone reports an issue, provide immediate feedback. A simple thank you or acknowledgment can reinforce their behavior and demonstrate that their efforts matter.

Create a culture where reporting security issues is encouraged and seen as a positive action. Leaders should lead by example, being open about their experiences with reporting issues. When leaders discuss security openly, it encourages others to do the same.

Consider appointing security champions within different departments to support their peers and make the reporting process less intimidating. Keep security a regular topic of conversation to keep it at the forefront of everyone's minds.

Celebrate the learning opportunities that come from reported incidents. Share success stories where reporting helped prevent a disaster. This not only educates but also motivates your team to remain vigilant and speak up.

By making it easy and rewarding for your employees to report security issues, you're not only protecting your business but also building a more engaged and proactive workforce.

Encourage open communication, continuous learning, and avoid shaming anyone for their mistakes. The sooner issues are reported, the easier and cheaper they are to resolve, ensuring your business remains secure and prosperous.

This is an area where we can provide assistance to businesses. If you need help, please don't hesitate to contact us.