In spite of the growing recognition that cyber attacks are on the rise within the small business community, employee training is still rarely practiced according to Chubb Insurance Company’s 3rd annual cyber report. The report states that on average only 31% of employees get annual training on cyber security.
While more and more businesses recognize the need for better cyber awareness, this has not translated into wholesale ongoing programs for the small business workplace.
According to Fran Obrien, Division President of Chubb North America Personal Risk Services, “When it comes to cybersecurity, there is no such thing as being over-prepared.” He indicates that while most responders remain concerned about a breach, concern itself is not enough. Common statements indicate that while a vast majority of respondents remain concerned about a breach, many say that they lack the time and expertise to carry out a successful cyber security employee training program.
But good cyber hygiene and cyber awareness can go a long way in protecting a small business and up to 43% of cyber attacks target small business.
Most business owners don’t have a good working knowledge of the types of cyber attacks which are prevalent today but a key safeguard is making sure that employees have a general understanding of common attack protocols.
Small businesses can implement policies that insure everyone in the company becomes a “first line of defense” against a cyber attack.
With proper employee training on good cyber practices a company can better prepare themselves for safe cyber hygiene for years to come.
