We all make mistakes. Most of the time, these mistakes don’t really matter. But sometimes, even a small error can have big consequences. Especially when it comes to keeping your business safe and secure.
Digital risk exists within every business that operates in the online space. But what’s your biggest risk? Is it criminals hacking into your network? Is it thieves stealing your hardware? These often seem like the greatest threats, and organisations focus their energy on preventing these things from happening.
But the truth is that there’s a threat that’s even greater.
So what’s the source of that threat? Your people.
Did you know that 95% of cybersecurity issues are caused by employees? While sometimes these incidents are intentional, most of the time it’s simply a case of human error. At Reliable Networks, we work closely with KnowBe4, a leader in reducing human risk. In this Managing Digital Risk series, we’re going to take a closer look at what KnowBe4 does. We’ll explain how we’re using their expertise to ensure we’re supporting our clients in the best way possible, and minimising risk as much as we can.
In part 1 of the series, we’re exploring why focusing on your people can help you stay secure.
The role of human error in cyber attacks
The truth is that we all make mistakes. Most of the time, these mistakes don’t really matter. But sometimes, even a small error can have big consequences. Especially when it comes to keeping your business safe and secure. And so, when building a cyber security strategy, it’s essential to consider how the actions of your employees could be increasing your risk of experiencing a data breach.
Unfortunately, it can happen easily. Particularly as phishing attacks are becoming more sophisticated.
A phishing attack is designed to trick people into sharing confidential information that’s then used to steal valuable data. For example, a payroll officer may receive an email that appears to be from the payroll software provider the company uses, asking them to update their information. They click the link which takes them to a replica of the real website. When they enter their username and password, criminals have access to their account, and to banking information for every employee.
Communications from cyber criminals can be almost indistinguishable from the real thing, making phishing one of the most effective ways to steal business data. That’s why KnowBe4 has developed the PhishER solution, which we use here at Reliable Networks to help keep our clients’ data secure.
Threat identification software, alongside staff training, is key to reducing the likelihood of human error causing major waves in your business. We explore the importance of staff training in part 2 of our Managing Digital Risk series, so be sure to check back soon to learn more about cyber safety.
In the meantime, feel free to contact us to find out more about how we can help you.
