How to Choose the Right Phishing Security Awareness Training Program

Picture this: You’re sipping your morning coffee, raring to kickstart your day, when bam—an employee clicks a shady email link and suddenly your system’s down. Too bad that morning coffee taste got ruined. But all this could have been avoided had you chosen the right phishing security awareness training program.  Phishing attacks are like that one annoying seagull at the beach waiting to swoop in and steal your lunch.  

The right program to counter such phishing attacks helps you spot these digital seagulls from miles away. At SecDesk, they’ve seen it all, and with their cybersecurity consulting services, they can help you select the ideal training course.

Need for Training to Combat Phishing

The oldest ploy on the internet is phishing emails. They pose as your boss, your bank, or even a Nigerian prince who is offering you millions of dollars. Hackers can infiltrate your systems, steal data, or demand ransom with only one incorrect click. Unfortunately, research indicates that 90% of cyberattacks begin with phishing. Your staff becomes cyber detectives with a robust cybersecurity awareness training program, identifying fake emails before they cause havoc. But how can you pick the best program when there are so many available? Let’s dissect it.

Know Your Needs: Start with a Game Plan

Like snowflakes or your grandmother’s recipe for the secret cookies, every organisation is different. Before selecting a training program, determine your specific needs. You may plan this out with the aid of SecDesk’s cybersecurity consulting services. Consider this:

Who is on your team? Are they non-technical people who assume “cloud” just implies rain, or are they tech-savvy IT professionals?

What’s your risk level? Threats to small enterprises may differ from those to municipal governments or schools.

How much do you have to spend? A Hollywood blockbuster budget is not necessary, but you do want to get good value for your money.

For example- 

SecDesk worked with a local bakery, let’s say Crusty Loaf, whose employees were clicking on phishing emails that promised free flour. To accommodate their small workforce and limited budget, SecDesk’s consultants conducted a brief risk assessment and customised a training program accordingly. The outcome? Their data remained as secure as their exclusive sourdough formula, and there were no more flour scams.

Look for Real-World Simulations

An excellent training program demonstrates rather than only lecturing. Seek applications that replicate real-world phishing attempts through realistic simulations. Don’t worry, these phony emails are safe! They teach your staff to recognise warning signs like misspelt URLs or dubious attachments. With the use of artificial intelligence, SecDesk’s Phish-E program creates deceptive phishing emails that look authentic but aren’t. Here’s what to look for:

• Numerous situations: Does the program contain phony bills, login notifications, or even “boss” emails?

• Frequency: Regular simulations, such as rehearsing for a dodgeball game, help keep skills sharp.

• Feedback: Do people receive immediate advice on how to avoid making the same mistakes again after clicking on a phony email?

SecDesk’s  Phish-E simulations were a hit with Crusty Loaf. Dave, one employee, fell for a phony “free coffee” email but was immediately informed that it was suspicious. 

Prioritise Ease of Use

Whether they are managing a city, teaching children, or producing bread, your crew is bustling. An effective training program for phishing security awareness should be simple to implement and comprehend. So that’s why you should seek:

• Easy setup: Is it possible to start it without a technical PhD? The simplest platforms are frequently cloud-based.
• Engaging content: People are kept fascinated by quick films, tests, or even gamified instruction.
• Accessibility: Is it suitable for people who are constantly on the go?

Check for Customisation and Support

One-size-fits-all training is unproductive and uncomfortable, much like trying to put on someone else’s shoes. A good application enables you to customise information for your team or sector. For instance, a merchant may concentrate on phony vendor emails, while a hospital requires training on patient data scams. Make sure the supplier assists:

• Custom content: Can they include your brand or circumstances unique to your industry?

• Professional assistance: Do they provide cybersecurity consultation services for complex inquiries?

• Frequent updates: The program should remain up to date because cybercriminals never take a holiday. An effective training program for phishing security awareness should be simple to implement and comprehend. 

Don’t Forget Metrics and Progress Tracking

Without a finish line, you wouldn’t run a race, would you? An excellent training program tracks your progress, allowing you to see its effectiveness. So keep a track of:

• Dashboards: Detailed reports that display who is clicking on what and how they are becoming better.

• Risk scores: To gauge how prepared your team is for phishing attacks, several tools provide scores.

• Follow-ups: Does the program recommend any additional training for repeat clickers or other next steps?

Budget wisely, but don’t skimp.

Let’s discuss money. Training programs may be free or expensive. Free ones may seem attractive, but they frequently lack substance. You get better value for your money with paid programs, such as those that come with cybersecurity consulting services.  So always look for:

Value vs. cost: Does the application come with updates, support, and simulations?

Scalability: Is it possible to expand with your staff without incurring significant costs?

Hidden costs: Be wary of deceptive extras.

SecDesk’s Got Your Back

SecDesk evaluates your needs, customises a plan, and answers questions 24/7 (12-hour promise!)

 Are you prepared to train your staff to defend against hackers?  For a free risk report or to discuss your next actions, get in touch with SecDesk.