A new research study out of the University of Washington indicated that 61% of all data breaches occurred inside of an organization as opposed to outside of it. The human element is the key issue for security. As a business owner, what does that mean for you? One of the first actions is to have common sense security guidelines that everyone can follow. Not having a security plan or having one that is complicated and difficult to understand leads to the same problem: employee apathy and non-compliance. Remember, always ask yourself a simple question “are you willing to do it?” If not, it is doubtful that your employees will.

Next, remember that when it comes to knowledge, it’s a “use it or lose it” proposition. Finding ways to reinforce the security message is critical. Possible ideas are to have brown bag lunches where an employee presents about what a security policy or idea means to them. Give people some sort of credit for doing this - maybe an extra half day off, or gift certificates to their favorite restaurants.

Another way to help your employees is with interactive quizzes. Make it part of the job requirement to take them. Once again, use a positive rewards system to reinforce good behavior and good scores.

Finally, work with security professionals to ensure you have the right tools for your environment and needs. Do not got it alone!

Source: ComputerWorld