In today’s digital world, the threats posed by the internet are constantly evolving. As a business, it is important to help your employees keep up with the changing landscape so that they are informed and protected against potential threats. To do so, you need to make sure your users are educated on what to look out for to protect themselves and your business.
There is no shortage of dangers and threats on the internet, but with the right training, you can equip your users and employees with the knowledge they need to stay safe.
Education is the primary key defence for any security system
Types Of Threats
When training your users, it is important to consider all the different types of threats they may come across. Knowing how to spot and respond to these sorts of attacks can help protect your business from falling victim to them.
Let’s take a look at a few of the main threats your users and employees may face.
Software Vulnerabilities
Software vulnerabilities are when a program contains a bug or other weakness that an attacker can exploit. As software becomes more complicated, it is increasingly easier for vulnerabilities to be missed and exploited.
As such, it is important to train your users on how to identify and report any suspicious activity or signs of a vulnerability. Some of the more common types of software-based vulnerabilities include:
- Malware – Malware, or malicious software, is a type of software program specifically designed to take advantage of vulnerabilities. It can be used to steal data, hold systems hostage, and otherwise cause harm to a business.
- Spyware – Spyware is a type of software program that is designed to spy on a user or organisation without their knowledge or permission. If a user installs an application without realising it contains spyware, the user can be tracked, monitored, and have their data stolen.
- Phishing Attacks – Phishing attacks are when an attacker attempts to trick a user into giving up sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal data. With the right training, users can learn to spot phishing emails and other suspicious activity. This is a type of social engineering tactic.
Social Engineering
Social engineering is a type of attack where an attacker attempts to gain access to a system or network by exploiting the trust and relationships between people. This typically involves manipulation and deception and can allow an attacker to gain access to sensitive information or data.
Training your users on the different types of social engineering attacks is important so that they can spot when they are being tricked. Some of the more common types of social engineering attacks include:
- Baiting – Baiting is when an attacker leaves a piece of malicious software, such as a USB drive, for a user to find. When the user plugs the USB drive into their computer, the malicious software is installed, allowing the attacker to gain access to the user’s system.
- Tailgating – Tailgating, also known as “piggybacking”, is when an attacker follows a legitimate user through a secure door, such as an employee entrance to a building. The attacker then gains access to restricted areas without having to go through the usual security procedures.
- Shoulder Surfing – Shoulder surfing is when an attacker looks over a user’s shoulder to gain access to sensitive information or data. This is most commonly used by attackers to gain access to passwords, bank account information, or other sensitive information.
Physical Security
Physical security is also a key element of user and employee education. Potential threats can range from unauthorised access to theft. Training users on the importance of physical security, as well as the different types of physical security measures in place, can help keep your business safe from potential threats. Some of the more common physical security threats include:
- Unauthorised Access – Unauthorised access is when someone gains access to a restricted area without permission. A few examples of unauthorised access include breaking into locked buildings or using stolen access cards to gain entry.
- Property Theft – Property theft is when a person or persons steal physical items from a facility or business. Things like computers, laptops, and other electronic devices should always be secured and monitored to protect them from theft.
- Trespassing – Similar to unauthorised access, trespassing is when a person on your property does not have permission to be there. If someone is spotted trespassing, they should be reported and removed from the premises immediately. However, unlike unauthorised access, trespassing isn’t limited to just secure areas.
Keeping Your Business Safe
Investing in user and employee education can go a long way in helping protect your business from potential threats and will help you to remain compliant with any laws applicable to your industry.
By considering all the different types of threats, your business can have a comprehensive plan in place to help protect it from any potential threats.
Investing in user and employee education is an important step in the process and one that should not be overlooked.
Our usecure solution can help you transform employees into your first line of defence, sign up for a free trial and learn more.
