Great employees are the backbone of any successful business, but they can also represent your biggest vulnerability. Countless cyberattacks happen each day because employees unwittingly open the door to cyber criminals. But with the right kind of training, you can transform your employees into one of your biggest cyber defenses.
Why Does This Matter?
Hackers have discovered myriad ways to gain unauthorized access to computer systems, networks and sensitive data. The Cost of a Data Breach Report 2025 by IBM and the Ponemon Institute cited phishing as one of the top three ways cyber criminals break into IT systems. During a phishing attack, hackers use deceptive tactics — such as an email that looks like it’s from a trusted source — to trick individuals and employees into revealing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links. “At an average USD 4.8 million per breach, it was also one of the costliest (attack methods),” the report said.
But phishing isn’t the only risk factor when it comes to employee habits that put your business IT at risk. Other risky practices include, but are not limited to:
- Using weak password practices.
- Downloading unauthorized software on company computers.
- Visiting unsecure websites.
- Failing to keep their software up to date and install security patches.
- Disabling security solutions on their company devices.
- Sharing inappropriate data via mobile devices.
- Inappropriate use of company IT resources.
The list could go on. Cyberattacks resulting from employee behavior — whether intentional or not — are expensive, time-consuming crises that could take months or even years to recover from.
Employee Training Is Key
Employee training is one of the most effective (and overlooked) defenses against cyberattacks. Here are some best practices businesses can use to transform employees from the “weakest link” to the first line of defense against cyber crime:
- Make it ongoing — Cyber threats evolve quickly, so it’s crucial that any employee training program include regular refreshers and updates so training stays relevant.
- Use real-world simulations — Give employees exposure to the types of threats they may encounter in the real world. Conduct phishing tests, social engineering scenarios, or password challenges so employees learn by doing, not just listening.
- Keep it simple and practical — Help your employees understand why the training is important and how to use what they’ve learned on important topics such as spotting suspicious emails, using MFA, and creating strong passwords.
- Customize the training — Different employees may require different training, so tailor your training accordingly. For example, finance staff may need extra focus on wire transfer fraud, while human resources staff may need more on protecting sensitive employee data.
- Promote a “see something, say something” culture — Encourage employees to report suspicious activity without fear of blame.
- Reward good practices — Celebrate teams or individuals who pass phishing tests or demonstrate strong cybersecurity habits.
- Mix it up — Keep your employees engaged in their training by using different platforms and formats: short videos, gamified quizzes, and live workshops.
Need Support?
SMBs may lack the staffing or bandwidth to create and implement a robust cybersecurity training program for employees. That’s where ATB Technologies comes in. We help SMBs establish training protocols and systems that can turn their employees into an important tool in their cybersecurity arsenal. Our IT experts can customize solutions to ensure your employees — and your IT — never lets you down. 👉 Schedule a free consultation today at atb-tech.com/contact-us to find out more.
About ATB Technologies
ATB Technologies is an award-winning managed service provider (MSP) that helps businesses solve technology problems and navigate which solutions best support their business strategy and goals. Our IT experts help companies maximize their business IT while offering an exceptional level of customer service. We’re ready to help and provide IT support that never lets you down. ATB has been twice recognized by Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S. Find out more at atb-tech.com.