By Erin Hutchison, CIRA
Professionals working in the cybersecurity field sometimes hear, “my business is too small to be a target”. Unfortunately, this is just not true.
70% of ransomware attacks impact organizations with fewer than 1,000 employees (Coveware). Cyber criminals don’t care if you’re the friendliest small business in New Brunswick – if your business deals with anything like credit card numbers or healthcare information, your business has the chance of experiencing a cyber attack. Even if you don’t, attacks don’t often discriminate because they are often launched by bots and crawlers – so if you connect devices to the internet, then they are at risk.
In addition to technical security measures, many businesses are now doing some form of cybersecurity awareness training for employees. A high-quality training program that reinforces positive behaviors can help reduce the risk of your business’ data getting compromised. It is also becoming more common for insurance companies to require training for cyber policies.
If you’re looking at training options, CIRA has partnered with Fredericton-based Beauceron Security to offer a platform that combines phishing simulations and courses in one platform. And as a bonus – Fredericton Chamber of Commerce Members receive a 20% off discount!
Here are a few key benefits of CIRA Cybersecurity Awareness Training:
1. Learn cybersecurity basics
All users can easily jump right in and get started with a series of courses that cover cybersecurity basics, from password managers to VPNs. Each course has a quick quiz at the end to test your knowledge – and your results will feed into your personal cyber risk score (more on that in a minute!).
2. Build the habit of reporting suspicious emails
Learn the common red flags use in phishing emails and get into the habit of thinking twice before clicking on mysterious links. The CIRA platform sends fake phishing emails to employees’ inbox – if you forward them to the reporting address, your risk score will improve!
3. Try to lower your cyber risk score over time
Through ongoing training activities – monthly phishing tests, and supplementary courses – employees can see if they can lower their risk score. Admins are able to view the overall risk score for the whole organization as well.
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Learn more about phishing, courses, and the reports in the training platform in our member flyer here.
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Erin Hutchison works on the Cybersecurity Services team at CIRA. CIRA is best known for managing the .CA domain name registry for Canada. As a not-for-profit they also have programs and services to help improve the internet in Canada. [EH1]