In this digital age, cybersecurity attacks are increasing in frequency and becoming increasingly complicated. Although cybercriminals employ sophisticated techniques and tools but one of the largest weaknesses in an organization’s security situation is still surprisingly simple: human error.
Despite the investment in firewalls, encryption and multi-factor authentication, human errors continue to play a key part in the success of cyberattacks. On this page, we will explore the ways that human error contributes to cybersecurity-related breaches and common errors that can lead to incidents and strategies that companies have proven to utilize to minimize the risk of human error.
Understanding Human Error in Cybersecurity
Human mistakes in cybersecurity is any unintentional act or oversight of employees or contractors which could compromise the security of networks, systems or the security of sensitive information. These errors can occur at any level ranging from executive to the entry-level personnel. They can be due to a lack of understanding lack of training, simply a lack of awareness.
While the technical controls are crucial but humans are usually one of the most weak links. As per IBM, human error is at the root of around 95 percent of cybersecurity incidents which highlights the importance of dealing with human behavior as a part of any cybersecurity plan.
Common Types of Human Error That Lead to Cybersecurity Breaches
1. Phishing Attacks
Phishing is among the most prevalent cyber-attacks that takes advantage of human errors. Hackers disguise themselves as trusted sources via messages, emails or websites to deceive users into sharing confidential data.
Examples:
An employee receives an email claiming to come coming from IT, requesting to reset their password. After clicking on the link and inputting credentials into a fake website inadvertently, the employee grants hackers an access right to the internal computer systems.
2. Weak Passwords and Password Reuse
Utilizing weak passwords or using the same password for multiple accounts greatly increases the security risk. If hackers compromise a single account, they are able to access multiple systems.
Examples:
An employee uses the same password for both personal email as well as for work accounts. If the personal account gets compromised, hackers gain access to the company’s systems too.
3. Failure to Install Software Updates
Security patches and security updates address known weaknesses. When users delay or don’t bother with updates, their systems are exposed to vulnerabilities that attackers regularly target.
Example:
An employee delays a browser update that includes critical security patches, which allows attackers to exploit vulnerabilities that aren’t patched.
4. Accidental Disclosure of Sensitive Information
The accidental sharing of sensitive data through messaging apps, email or social media platforms could lead to serious data breaches as well as violations of compliance.
Example:
An employee has a mistake and sends an Excel spreadsheet that contains sensitive customer information to the wrong person.
5. Poor Device Management
Devices that are stolen or lost like laptops, smartphones and USB drives could lead to security breaches if they’re not secured properly.
An example:
A laptop that is left unattended in a public space can be taken. Without encryption or password security sensitive company information is accessible.
6. Improper Access Permissions
Accessing too much or unintentionally to data and systems is another human error that could result in security breaches.
Example:
An employee knowingly grants an outside contractor access to systems that are sensitive beyond the scope of their duties which increases the chance of abuse.
7. Lack of Cybersecurity Awareness and Training
Many cybersecurity incidents are caused by employees not being able to spot threats or adhere to the best security practices.
An example:
An employee clicks a suspicious URL from an unknown sender because of the lack of education on the detection of phishing.
The Cost of Human Error in Cybersecurity Breaches
The financial cost of human error-related data breaches can be significant. Based on Ponemon Institute Ponemon Institute, the cost of a typical data incident that is caused by errors made by humans amounts to $3.33 millions. The cost of these breaches includes:
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Response to incident investigation and investigation
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Fines and legal fees
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Customer notification expenses
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Damage to reputation and loss of confidence in customers
Long-term implications can gravely impact the continuity of business and the credibility of a brand.
How to Mitigate Human Error in Cybersecurity
1. Employee Training and Security Awareness
A regular cybersecurity education can help employees to recognize and counter threats like phishing or social engineering.
Solutions:
Install obligatory security awareness programs as well as fake phishing exercises.
2. Strong Access Control Policies
The employees should only have access to data and systems that are required to fulfill their job.
Solution
Make use of Role-based access control (RBAC) and make sure you review permissions on a regular basis.
3. Enforce Strong Password and MFA Policies
Encourage the use and usage of strong unique passwords, unique passwords as well as multi-factor authentication (MFA).
solution:
Require MFA for all systems that are sensitive and encourage password managers.
4. Automate Software Updates and Patch Management
Automation decreases the risk of vulnerability resulting from delayed updates.
Solution
Install automated patch management tools that keep your systems up-to-date.
5. Secure Devices and Encrypt Data
Adopt strict policies for security on devices that include encryption and capability to remotely wipe.
Solutions:
Utilize MDM tools to manage mobile devices. (MDM) instruments to ensure security standards are adhered to.
6. Conduct Regular Security Audits
Regularly scheduled audits and assessments can help to identify potential risks before attackers exploit them.
Solution
Plan periodic security audits, as well as penetration testing.
Conclusion
Human error is still one of the biggest security incidents. But, with the correct mix of training policies, technology, and training organizations can drastically decrease the risk.
Cybersecurity isn’t just an IT problem. It’s an issue that is a shared obligation of everyone. If employees are educated about, vigilant, and backed with strong security controls companies are better equipped to protect themselves from cyber-attacks.
