3 simple employee-tech trainings to ensure cybersecurity
Keeping your small business safe from cybersecurity threats starts with educating employees. Even the best firewalls and security software can’t always protect a computer system if a staff member opens a link from a source they don’t know. As ransomware and phishing scams continue to be some of the most common cyberattacks, it's more important than ever to educate and train employees on how to recognize these ploys.
3 things to include in cybersecurity training:
1. Email scams
As phishing emails become more sophisticated, it's important to show employees the tell-tale signs of these messages. Here are a few clues to consider.
- Closely check the sender address. If something’s not right, chances are it’s a scam.
- Don’t click any unfamiliar links. If an employee wasn’t expecting to be asked to download a document or visit a website that’s a red flag.
- Look for unusual spelling or grammar errors. We all have a typo now and then, but if an email is heavy with strange language snafus that’s cause for caution.
2. Strong passwords
While it might be easier to remember more generic passwords that are used repeatedly, cybersecurity training will stress the importance of having good passwords in place. Passwords are the first line of defense against hackers and are strongest when they include a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. Combine this with a multi-factor authentication system—like a special code sent to your phone—to create a protective wall against hackers.
3. Social media policies
You’re probably not thinking about social media when it comes to cyber security at your small business. But, without a social media policy in place, employees may not understand appropriate use of it in the workplace. And that can put your company at risk. You’ll want to put guidelines in place that limit social media usage at work, and you’ll also want to discuss what company information can and cannot be shared.
Now that you know, make it a habit.
Setting up cybersecurity training is just the first step. To make the tips really stick, it’s important to turn cyber-trainings into a regular event. Not only will this keep cyber-safety at the front of employee minds, it will also help them stay updated on the evolving tricks of hackers. Putting a cybersecurity training plan in place is one way to help your small business succeed.
Before you go, check out our blog on the basics of cybersecurity insurance coverage for businesses to make sure you’re up to date on how UFG Insurance might help.
