Periodically Test Staff Skills

Periodically Test Staff Skills

If you’re in office, you’ve probably practiced a fake fire drill or inclement weather plan to ensure employees know how to respond under pressure. Conducting unannounced cyber exercises uses the same logic.

Having IT send a fake phishing email or hiring a third party to simulate some other type of attack can be a great way for employees to put their newly acquired cyber skills to the test. It also gives them an opportunity to learn from their mistakes in a low-risk environment. At an organizational level, these teachable moments can show where there are larger knowledge gaps that need to be addressed in subsequent cyber training sessions.

Remember: if you want employees to make cybersecurity a priority, your organization has to do the same. Investing in their cyber skills now could be what saves your SMB from financial ruin down the line.