Cyber Security Training vs Awareness: Key Differences

Introduction

In today’s digital age, implementing strong cyber security has become increasingly vital for businesses of all sizes. With cyber attacks becoming more sophisticated, and the number of data breaches on the rise, protecting your data and customers’ data from cyber threats is crucial. One of the ways to accomplish this is through cyber security awareness training.

What is Cyber Security Training?

Cyber security training aims to educate employees about identifying and responding to cyber threats. It consists of teaching employees about the latest cyber threats and how to prevent them. Typically, cyber security training covers topics such as password management, phishing attacks, malware prevention, and social engineering. The training may be delivered in different formats, such as classroom training, online courses, or virtual workshops (over Teams or Zoom). The goal of cyber security training is to enhance employees’ ability to safeguard the business from cyber attacks.

What is Cyber Security Awareness Training?

Cyber security awareness training is a broader concept that goes beyond simply training employees. It involves creating a security-conscious culture within the organisation. Cyber security awareness aims to make employees aware of the significance of cyber security, and their role in protecting the business. It is not just about imparting information, but also about promoting a mindset of vigilance and proactivity. Cyber security awareness can be achieved through several activities such as communication campaigns, regular reminders, and simulation exercises. The objective of cyber security awareness is to instill a security-conscious culture within the organisation, which can reduce the risk of cyber attacks.

In the following section, we will look at the differences between cyber security training, and cyber security awareness training. Understanding these differences is essential for businesses to select the right approach to protect themselves from cyber threats.

What are the key differences between cyber training and cyber awareness?

While cyber security training and awareness may seem interchangeable, they are two distinct concepts. Cyber security training typically involves an organised program of courses and lessons that are designed to teach employees or individuals about specific cyber security practices. It is typically a more structured and formal approach to educating individuals about cyber security risks, and how to prevent or mitigate them.

Cyber security awareness, on the other hand, is a more general understanding of the risks associated with cyber security. It is about promoting a culture of security, where individuals are encouraged to be vigilant and aware of potential threats. Cyber awareness is more about creating an overall security posture that is supported by everyone within an organisation, and promoting a sense of personal responsibility.

While both cyber security training and awareness are important, they serve different purposes. Cyber training is typically used to teach specific skills or to reinforce security protocols, whereas cyber awareness is about creating a security culture that is supported by everyone.

What is CybSafe and how can it help?

CybSafe is a cyber security awareness and behaviour management platform. Rather than relying solely on training, CybSafe offers a comprehensive solution that combines training with a range of other features, such as simulated phishing attacks, micro-lessons, and real-time reporting.

By combining these features, CybSafe is able to create a much more engaging and effective cyber security awareness program. For example, the simulated phishing attacks are designed to test users’ ability to recognise phishing emails, and provide immediate feedback and training when a mistake is made. Similarly, the micro-lessons are short, engaging lessons that provide bite-sized pieces of information on a range of cyber security topics.

The platform is designed to help organisations to reduce the risk of cyber-attacks by providing interactive and engaging training to their employees. CybSafe’s courses have been designed by behavioural scientists who understand that changing human behaviour is the key to effective cyber security.

It’s no wonder that CybSafe has been recognised as a Leader in Cyber Security Awareness and Training Solutions by Forrester Wave. CybSafe’s innovative approach to cyber security awareness and training sets it apart from other solutions.

CybSafe has also shown impressive results – 91% of CybSafe users no longer exhibit high-risk phishing behaviour after a CybSafe behaviour intervention. Additionally, 81% of CybSafe users are likely to encourage good cyber security behaviours with friends and family.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cyber security is a critical issue for all organisations. While both cyber security training and cyber security awareness are important, it is clear that cyber security awareness is better than training. Training can be ineffective if employees are not engaged or motivated, but awareness campaigns that target behavioural change can be highly effective.

CybSafe is a great example of an effective cyber security awareness solution. By using behavioural science techniques, CybSafe has developed engaging and effective cyber security awareness courses that can help organisations reduce their cyber risk. The platform has been recognised by industry experts as a leader in the field, and the impressive results speak for themselves.

In today’s world, where cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and frequent, it is essential that organisations take cyber security seriously. By investing in effective cyber security awareness solutions like CybSafe, organisations can reduce their cyber risk and protect their assets, reputation and customers.

Emerge Digital is a CybSafe Partner and can provide you access with this market leading solution. To find out more about CybSafe, and to get a demo of it in action, get in touch today.

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