10 proven ways to develop a security-aware culture

A security-conscious culture is vital for guaranteeing greater cyber security and better commercial outcomes. As security awareness grows, the likelihood of a breach (and the associated business consequences) decreases.

However, security-aware societies do not emerge naturally. Cybersecurity executives must invent the culture through deliberate and measured activities.

Increase your cyber security. Maintain the highest level of security within your firm. Use the following insights to develop (or refine) your security-conscious culture.

Developing a security-aware culture

1. Understand your company. Aim to integrate a cyber security culture into the existing organizational culture. Make sure that your security culture is built around business principles. Create specialized programs that engage employees and give the C-suite the impression that you understand your particular workplace.
   
   
2. Begin with a cultural assessment. To create a security-aware culture, first examine the congruence (or lack thereof) between company culture and daily cyber security actions. In the vast majority of cases, there is a gap between the two.
   
   A culture evaluation will reveal gaps between business cultural norms and security best practices. One-on-one interviews with personnel at all levels and functions of the business, research into current security measures, and group discussions should all be part of the assessment.
   
   
3. Communicate effectively. Once you've identified the gaps between the business culture and the (ideal) security culture, devise strategies for gradually encouraging employee behavior change. Cyber security executives can transmit new concepts and (re)shape workplace practices using a variety of channels, including video series, phishing exercises, and workshops.
   
   
4. Consider the restrictions. Consider whatever regulatory standards the organization must follow when developing a security culture and implementing new code. Best practices presented to employees should widely align with and support regulatory requirements.
   
   
5. Build rapport with stakeholders. Ensure that you introduce yourself to all suitable people, whether via email or in person. Inquire about current projects and priorities, ensuring that you are truly listening to their issues. Obtain buy-in for new cyber security measures, since this helps to present a cohesive face within the organization and can benefit campaigns.
   
   
6. Collaborate with the communication or marketing team. To create a security culture while respecting employees' time and attention, work with your internal communications or marketing team on message.
   
   They will understand how to maintain a consistent messaging cadence without overloading personnel. They may also help you launch surveys, analyze stats, and ensure that your messaging is consistent with the organization's brand.
   
   
7. Avoid imposing on staff. The security staff should be viewed as a helpful and supportive group. The security team should avoid coming across as a group that harasses, micromanages, or heavily enforces security procedures on others. (No one wants to be confronted by a cyber security analyst because they used the same password three times.) Instead, when developing a security-conscious culture, use warm and approachable approaches to entice individuals to participate.
   
   
8. Utilize new hire orientations. See if your team can obtain some face time (the opportunity to lead a 20-minute workshop) during new hire training. This allows you to make a favorable first impression on potential employees. Importantly, make sure your Power Point presentation isn't boring.
   
   Explain how the cyber security team helps the organization. Discuss why employees are at the forefront of cyber defense. Provide an overview of what employees should expect in terms of cyber security communication and additional education.
   
   
9. Recognize and empower others. Recognize and promote employees that prioritize cyber security, including reporting phishing instances and practicing good password hygiene. Promoting positive attitudes among employees often leads to better outcomes and strengthens cyber security measures overall.

10. Evaluate efficacy. When implementing security-aware culture initiatives, make sure there is a means to monitor the effectiveness of your efforts. Be able to show a return on investment.

Further thoughts
In addition to improving security, a security-conscious culture can be portrayed as a competitive advantage. Touting a strong security strategy, which includes a security-conscious culture, can help a firm portray itself as an industry leader.

It can also have a knock-on effect, motivating other organizations to implement security awareness initiatives. This ultimately strengthens the entire industry ecosystem.

Source: CyberTalk.org