We will always reinforce how critical it is for everyone in any workplace to have a grasp of cybersecurity best practices, regardless of their role or responsibilities. However, based on a survey conducted by UK-based cybersecurity firm Ramsac, this baseline is not being met by a long shot.
Why do we say this? Simple: this survey revealed that one in three adults failed a cybersecurity test designed for 11-year-olds.
Let that sink in for a moment.
Let’s consider what this suggests about the state of modern business cybersecurity.
Ramsac’s Results Speak Volumes
The survey that Ramsac administered was simple enough: before an IT website could be accessed, a user—in this case, decision-makers in their organizations and fields—needed to answer five basic cybersecurity questions.
Again, these were questions designed for 11-year-olds to answer successfully.
What the Results Revealed
There were some troubling trends brought to light in the responses.
Malware seemed to trip up the most people, with 15 percent answering incorrectly. Phishing bamboozled 13 percent of respondents, and 21 percent did not know how to protect themselves against these scams (which, as a reminder, are among the most common attacks out there). General cybersecurity awareness was slightly better, with just under seven percent missing these questions.
How to Increase Your Business’ Security
While there are tons of tools and technologies to help boost your protection, you can make a big difference relatively quickly in a few simple ways.
Apply Updates
Updates are frequently created to resolve existing security issues. Keeping your technology updated will help keep you safer from vulnerabilities.
Team Training
One of your biggest security challenges will always be the people you have working for and with you. Training them and evaluating their preparedness to detect threats will help reduce the issues you ultimately face.
Endorse Communication
Encourage your team to speak up if they have any questions or concerns, particularly when security may be impacted. Asking the right questions at the right moment could be the difference between security and a breach.
Cybersecurity is Everyone’s Responsibility
We can help you protect your business from threats of all kinds, implementing many of the above tools to your advantage. Learn more by calling (604) 513-9428.
