Encouraging your team to report security issues quickly is crucial for your business. It’s something that might not be top of mind, but it’s essential.

While you might think your tech tools have you covered, your employees are actually your first line of defense. They play a key role in identifying and reporting security threats that automated systems might miss.

Consider this scenario: An employee receives an unusual email from a trusted supplier. It’s actually a phishing attempt, where a cybercriminal is impersonating someone to steal your data.

If the employee ignores it or assumes someone else will handle it, that seemingly harmless email could lead to a serious data breach, costing your company a lot of money.

Shockingly, less than 10% of employees report phishing emails to their security teams. Why is this number so low?

• They may not understand the importance of reporting.
• They fear getting into trouble if they make a mistake.
• They believe it’s someone else’s responsibility.

If employees have been criticized for security mistakes in the past, they’re even less likely to report issues.

The main reason employees don’t report security issues is a lack of understanding. They may not know what a security threat looks like or why it’s crucial to report it. This is where effective education comes in, but it shouldn’t be boring or filled with technical jargon.

Make cyber security training engaging and interactive. Use real-life examples and scenarios to demonstrate how a small oversight can escalate into a major problem if not reported.

Simulate phishing attacks to show potential consequences. Make it clear that every employee plays a crucial role in keeping the company safe. When they understand that their actions can prevent a disaster, they’ll be more motivated to report anything suspicious.

Simplify the reporting process. Even if employees want to report an issue, a complicated process can discourage them. Make sure reporting is simple and straightforward—think easy-access buttons or quick links on your company’s intranet.

Ensure everyone knows how to report an issue. Regular reminders and clear instructions can go a long way. When someone does report something, give them immediate feedback. A quick thank you or acknowledgment can reinforce the behavior and show that their efforts are valued.

Create a positive culture around reporting security issues. If employees feel they’ll be judged or punished, they’re less likely to speak up. Leaders need to set the tone by being open about their own experiences with reporting issues. When leadership is transparent about security, it encourages everyone else to follow suit.

Consider appointing security champions within different departments. These individuals can serve as go-to contacts for their peers, providing support and making the reporting process less intimidating. Keep security a regular topic of conversation so it remains top of mind for everyone.

Celebrate learning opportunities from reported incidents. Share success stories where timely reporting helped avoid a disaster. This not only educates but also motivates your team to stay vigilant and proactive.

By making it easy and rewarding for employees to report security issues, you’re not just protecting your business—you’re also building a more engaged and proactive workforce.

Encourage open communication, foster continuous learning, and avoid shaming anyone for their mistakes. The quicker issues are reported, the easier and cheaper they are to fix, keeping your business secure and thriving.

If you need help improving your security protocols, we’re here to assist. Feel free to reach out!