Posted: 3rd October 2025
Cyber security is a shared responsibility in every business. While IT providers or in-house teams manage technical defences, employees play a critical role in protecting sensitive data, identifying cyber attack attempts, and maintaining a secure digital environment. Investing in employee cyber security training not only reduces risk but also helps foster a security-conscious culture across your organisation.
Why is cyber security training for employees essential?
Cyber threats increasingly target employees rather than systems, with phishing emails, ransomware, and social engineering attacks becoming more sophisticated. Without proper training, even well-intentioned employees can unintentionally compromise sensitive information or fall victim to scams.
A staggering 82% of data breaches have a human element as the cause.
Educating your workforce ensures they can identify potential threats, follow safe practices for data handling and device use, and comply with company policies and industry regulations. Employees who are informed about cyber security best practices act as a human firewall, strengthening the overall security posture of your business.
A recent report found that 95% of employees change their behaviour after attending cyber security training.
Practical strategies for cyber security training
Assess: Risks and Training Needs
Begin by identifying areas where employees are most vulnerable, such as handling confidential information, accessing cloud applications, or responding to suspicious emails. Understanding these risks allows you to develop focused training that addresses real-world scenarios.
Deliver: Engaging and Accessible Training
Provide training that employees can relate to and apply. You can consider online courses, webinars, and short video tutorials, but in-person training delivered by cyber security experts who can tailor the training to your business is likely the most effective. Jargon-free, engaging training increases retention and encourages employees to adopt safe habits.
Use: Hands-On Simulations
Simulated phishing campaigns, social engineering exercises, and password breach drills give employees practical experience in spotting threats. These exercises reinforce theoretical knowledge and help staff feel confident in their ability to respond appropriately to potential attacks.
Encourage: Continuous Awareness
Cyber security is an ongoing concern. Regularly share updates on emerging threats, tips for safe online behaviour, and refresher sessions. Continuous awareness ensures employees stay vigilant and reinforces a proactive security culture.
Establish: Clear Policies and Guidelines
Ensure employees are familiar with your IT strategy, including password management, multi-factor authentication, secure data handling, and incident reporting. Clear guidelines provide employees with actionable steps to maintain security consistently.
Foster: A Security-First Culture
Cyber security should be seen as a collective responsibility, not just an IT department task. Encouraging employees to share insights, support each other in safe practices, and act as security ambassadors strengthens the organisation’s overall resilience to cyber threats.
Measure: Effectiveness of Cyber Security Training
Evaluate the success of your training programs by monitoring metrics such as course completion rates, results from phishing simulations, and trends in reported security incidents. These insights help you refine training content and focus resources on areas that provide the most impact.
We’re here to protect your business
Employees are the first line of defence in cyber security. By providing practical training, fostering ongoing awareness, and establishing a culture of security, you empower your workforce to recognise threats and act safely.
At Jupiter IT, we offer expert cyber security services as well as managed IT support services in Hull and the surrounding areas. Every client benefits from a free cyber security audit and free cyber security awareness training tailored to their employees' needs.
Drop us a line to find out more and book your session.
