Firewalls, antivirus software, and strong passwords matter, but the biggest threat to your company’s cybersecurity might be sitting at a desk in your office.
Most successful cyberattacks don’t start with high-level hacking. They start with a simple email that looks like it’s from the boss. Or a text message asking for a quick favor. Or a link that seems harmless—until it isn’t.
That’s why cybersecurity training isn’t just “nice to have.” It’s your first, and sometimes only, line of defense. And it’s never been more important.
Your Employees Are Your Front Line
Cybercriminals are counting on human error. In fact, 95% of breaches involved a human element—either someone falling for a scam or unintentionally giving access to sensitive information. And only 8% of the staff accounted for 80% of the incidents.
With cybersecurity training services, your team can learn to recognize these threats before damage is done. You don’t need to turn everyone into IT experts. You just need to make smart, alert behavior the norm.
The Most Common Threats (and What They Look Like)
Here are the top types of attacks your employees should be able to recognize:
Phishing & Spear Phishing
- Example: An email that looks like it’s from your CFO, asking for gift cards or wire transfers.
- What to teach: Look closely at the sender’s address, spelling errors, or urgency in tone.
Social Engineering
- Example: A caller pretending to be from IT, asking for login credentials.
- What to teach: Verify requests independently—never give out passwords.
Ransomware
- Example: Clicking a link that downloads malware and locks files until a ransom is paid.
- What to teach: Don’t open attachments from unknown sources; report strange system behavior immediately.
Insider Threats
- Example: An employee accidentally uploads private data to a public cloud folder.
- What to teach: Proper file sharing, device usage, and data handling practices.
Start With Day One: Cybersecurity Onboarding
Security training shouldn’t wait until “someday.” It should be built into your onboarding process, just like filling out HR paperwork or setting up payroll.
Your onboarding cybersecurity checklist should include:
- A short video or training session explaining the types of threats employees may see.
- Clear do’s and don’ts for handling emails, passwords, and data.
- A digital handbook summarizing your company’s security policies.
You can even include a short quiz or simulation to test their awareness. This helps them retain what they’ve learned and sends a strong message that your company takes security seriously from day one.
Make Training Ongoing (and Actually Engaging)
People forget what they don’t use. One of the best ways to keep cybersecurity top of mind is through regular workshops and simulations. Here’s what that could look like:
Monthly or Quarterly Refreshers
Host 30-minute “lunch & learn” sessions focused on one common threat at a time.
Simulated Phishing Attacks
Send fake phishing emails and see who clicks. Follow up with a friendly explanation, not shame.
Gamify It
Track participation in training modules or simulations. Offer small rewards (like gift cards or recognition) to teams or individuals who do well.
Using a platform like KnowBe4 or Cofense can help automate this while keeping things engaging. An IT provider can help you access and implement these tools so you can focus on the results.
Help Your Team Spot Red Flags
Even without formal IT training, employees can learn to spot warning signs. Focus your education around everyday scenarios:
- Sketchy emails with odd sentence structure or unexpected links.
- Urgent requests that pressure employees to act fast without verifying.
- Unusual login attempts, like receiving a code they didn’t request.
- Strange pop-ups or software installing itself.
Make it easy for employees to ask: “Does this look right?”
And if they’re not sure, the rule should always be: When in doubt, report it.
Build a Security-First Culture
Cybersecurity isn’t just the IT department’s job. Everyone should feel comfortable asking questions, raising concerns, and learning. Here’s how to reinforce that mindset:
- Talk about cybersecurity in team meetings.
- Share quick tips via internal emails or chat channels.
- Celebrate wins—like a team member reporting a phishing attempt before anyone clicked.
Recognizing and rewarding proactive behavior helps people stay engaged and alert.
Make Reporting Easy and Clear
Even with training, mistakes happen. What matters most is how quickly you respond.
That’s why every employee should know:
- Who to contact if something seems off.
- What steps to take (Don’t unplug the device, do call IT, etc.).
- Why early reporting can save thousands by containing a threat before it spreads.
A simple internal flowchart or “If You See Something” guide goes a long way here.
Update Your Training as Threats Evolve
Cyber threats change constantly, so your training should too.
That’s where cybersecurity training services from a trusted IT partner come in. At ANC Group, we help companies keep their teams informed and equipped with the latest best practices. Whether it’s a new scam technique or a shift in regulations, we update your training content regularly so your defenses never fall behind.
Your Team Can Be Your Strongest Defense
Training your employees isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about protecting your business. With the right approach, your people become a powerful shield against real-world threats.
Ready to get started? Contact ANC Group to learn how our cybersecurity training services can help protect your team, your data, and your reputation.
