Are your employees reporting security issues fast enough … or even at all?

Getting your team to report security issues quickly is essential for your business… but it may be something that hasn’t crossed your mind before.

Perhaps that’s because, with so many security tech tools, you think you’ve got it covered.

But guess what? Your employees are your first line of defence, and they’re incomparable when it comes to spotting and reporting security threats.

For example, if one of your employees receives an email that appears to be from a trusted supplier, but something seems ‘off’ … then ignores it or thinks someone else will handle it, that innocent-looking email could be a classic phishing attempt (that’s where a cyber criminal sends an email and pretends to be someone else to steal your data). It could lead to a massive data breach, potentially costing your company big bucks.

Less than 10% of employees report phishing emails to their security teams

That’s shockingly low, so why don’t they take action? Usually, it’s because:

• They might not realise how important it is.
• They’re scared of getting into trouble if they’re wrong.
• They think it’s someone else’s job.

Plus, if they’ve been pulled up on security mistakes in the past, they’re even less likely to speak up.

Make cyber security training an engaging and interactive experience

One of the biggest reasons employees don’t report security issues is that they don’t know what a security threat looks like or why reporting it is crucial. This is where education comes in, but not the boring, jargon-filled kind.

Use real-life examples and scenarios to show how a minor issue can snowball into a major problem if not reported.

Simulate phishing attacks and demonstrate the potential fallout. Make it clear that everyone has a vital role in keeping the company safe. When employees understand their actions can prevent a disaster, they’ll be more motivated to report anything suspicious.

Make sure everyone knows how to report an issue

If your employees want to report an issue, but there’s a complicated reporting process, it can stop them in their tracks. Your reporting process should be straightforward, like easy-access buttons or quick links on your company’s intranet.

Regular reminders and clear instructions can go a long way. When someone reports something, give them immediate feedback. A simple thank you can reinforce their behaviour and show them that their efforts matter.

It’s all about creating a culture where reporting security issues is seen as a positive action. If employees feel they’ll be judged or punished, they’ll keep quiet. Leaders in your company need to set the tone by being open about their own experiences. When the big boss talks openly about security, it encourages everyone else to do the same.

You could even consider appointing security champions within different departments. These are your go-to people for their peers, offering support and making the reporting process less intimidating.

Keep security a regular topic of conversation so it stays fresh in everyone’s minds

Also, celebrate the learning opportunities that come from reported incidents. Share success stories where reporting helped avoid a disaster. This will educate and motivate your team to keep their eyes open and speak up.

By making it easy and rewarding for your employees to report security issues, you’re protecting your business and building a more engaged and proactive workforce.

Encourage open communication and continuous learning and avoid shaming anyone for their mistakes. The faster issues are reported, the easier and cheaper they are to fix, keeping your business secure and thriving.

We regularly help and advise businesses to minimise security issues. If we can help you too, get in touch.