To combat cyberattacks, all utility staff must grasp the fundamental good habits that underpin cybersecurity, often known as cyber hygiene by security specialists. As a result, utilities must educate their workers about possible dangers and their duties in mitigating them. This type of instruction is frequently referred to as cybersecurity awareness training.
IMPORTANCE :
To be successful, cyberattacks frequently rely on human errors. Many businesses and even governments have been compromised by malware when an unwitting employee clicked on an infected email attachment or placed an infected USB drive into a computer, as was most likely the scenario when Stuxnet infiltrated Iran's nuclear enrichment plant Employees are taught how to prevent these blunders through cybersecurity awareness training.The cultivation of healthy, secure computer habits (cyber hygiene) may frequently save a business time, money, aggravation, and reputational damage. Though basic, these behaviors are highly successful in sealing off vulnerabilities that might allow attackers access to utility systems. According to studies, a substantial proportion of data breaches (19%–36%) can be attributed to human error.
Intersections With Other Building Blocks:
The corporate security policy building block establishes goals for the cybersecurity awareness training building block. Cybersecurity awareness training, which focuses on instilling cyber hygiene in all employees, benefits from workforce development, which provides enhanced skill development for technical personnel. These technical people can assist in monitoring and coaching nontechnical employees, therefore increasing the effectiveness of cybersecurity awareness training.
Cybersecurity awareness training
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workforce development organizational security
policy
Essential Data:
All staff require basic cybersecurity awareness training. This includes avoiding phishing, using removable media responsibly (e.g., USB storage devices), and avoiding insecure Wi-Fi networks. Furthermore, certain personnel require further training if they handle sensitive material on a daily basis. Sensitive data comprises the following:
Data regarding the utility's operations and security
Customers' and employees' personally identifiable information Financial information Trade secrets
Any sensitive information as defined by local laws or regulations
Licenses for software
Details about computer network setups and other data that cyberattackers might use
Information protected by a nondisclosure agreement signed by the utility.