Security awareness training is an educational process that teaches employees how to protect their organization's computer systems, data, and people from cyber threats. It goes beyond technical knowledge, focusing on the human behaviors that often lead to security breaches, such as clicking phishing links or using weak passwords.
Human Error
% of Data Breaches caused by human error (Verizon DBIR)
What Does Security Awareness Training Involve?
Modern security awareness training is not just a once-a-year PowerPoint presentation. Effective programs are continuous and interactive, designed to keep security top-of-mind.
Why Is It Important?
The "human element" is involved in the vast majority of data breaches. Technical defenses like firewalls and antivirus software are essential, but they cannot stop a user from voluntarily handing over their credentials to a convincing scammer.
The Training Lifecycle
1Baseline
Send a mock phishing email to all staff to see what your starting 'Phish-prone Percentage' is.
2Train
Enroll users in short, role-based training modules to explain the threats.
3Simulate
Continuously test users with realistic phishing emails (monthly).
4Analyze
Identify high-risk users who need remedial training and track improvement.
Who Needs It?
Everyone. Cyber attackers do not discriminate. They target:
How Is It Delivered?
Traditionally, training was delivered via long, annual in-person sessions or compliance videos. However, the industry standard has shifted to continuous, micro-learning models.
Platforms like PhishFirewall use AI and automation to deliver bite-sized training content exactly when it's needed (e.g., right after a user fails a phishing test). This "teachable moment" approach drastically improves retention compared to boring annual lectures.
