Understanding Cybersecurity's Impact on Business Employees

The landscape of cybersecurity is evolving rapidly, and it brings significant changes that affect business employees. It's no longer just about being aware of security risks; it's about actively preventing them.

According to ISACA, enhancing security awareness and training is the most effective way to minimize successful phishing attempts within an organization. Employees who are informed and trained are less likely to fall prey to these types of attacks.

When considering the necessary adjustments due to cyber threats, it might seem overwhelming. However, for those in information security or technology sectors, these changes are often second nature. Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), utilizing password management tools, and critically evaluating links before clicking are standard practices. Familiarity with these concepts allows individuals to seamlessly integrate them into their daily routines, understanding their importance in maintaining security.

For business employees, the scenario is quite different. Concepts like MFA could easily be mistaken for Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), and password managers might simply refer to a colleague responsible for handling passwords. The idea of critically assessing links may come off as patronizing. As a result, making additional adjustments to their already busy schedules can feel like an unreasonable demand, especially when they lack the understanding and agreement on the necessity of these changes.

PROSCI highlights the importance of tapping into beliefs for effective change management. Ian Croft provides insight into the Neurological Levels framework, which illustrates how individual belief systems impact their perception and response to change. This framework is structured like a pyramid, where each layer influences those beneath it.

Key to this discussion are the concepts of capability and beliefs. Croft notes that:

"Values and beliefs provide the capabilities to either act or refrain from acting. An empowering belief enables action, while a disempowering belief hinders it."

He elaborates:

"During change, individuals might think, 'I (identity) can (belief and value) do (capability) X (desired behavior) here (context).' This translates into 'I can do X here' or 'I cannot do X here,' with the latter being influenced by their self-beliefs."

Translating this to cybersecurity, a business employee might reflect: "I can adopt the extra steps for MFA every time I log in because I understand its importance in safeguarding the company. While it may complicate my routine slightly, it ultimately protects both my job and the organization’s future."

However, it’s critical to note that these realizations cannot be imposed externally; employees must arrive at them independently. They need to recognize the personal benefits of these changes, such as job security, rather than feel threatened by potential consequences. Emphasizing the positive aspects—how these measures help avert costly ransomware attacks that could jeopardize the company—is essential.

It’s about framing the narrative around benefits instead of penalties, and fostering an environment of kindness and empathy rather than frustration or intimidation.

Business employees are just like anyone else; they have families, hobbies, and personal pressures. Their understanding of cybersecurity may be limited, and they may not wish to delve into the complexities of information security, just as many don't want to master marketing or human resources.

Therefore, it's crucial to nurture supportive relationships within the organization. By doing so, you can work together to bolster defenses against cyber threats and facilitate understanding of the significant changes cybersecurity brings to the workplace.

Happy leadership!