You lock your front door when you leave the house, right? But what if someone left a window open? It wouldn’t matter how strong the lock was—the risk would still be there.
Now, think about your business. You’ve invested in strong passwords, firewalls, and the latest security updates. But if your employees accidentally leave “windows” open—through weak passwords, personal devices, or unsafe habits—your security could be at risk.
The Hidden Risks in Everyday Work Habits
With more employees working remotely, personal devices are now part of the workplace. In fact, 4 out of 5 employees use their own phones, tablets, or laptops for work. The problem? These devices may not have the same security measures as office systems. Weak passwords, outdated software, and unsecured Wi-Fi connections create easy entry points for hackers.
The risks don’t stop there:
- 40% of employees admit to downloading customer data onto personal devices.
- 65% of employees say they only follow security rules “sometimes” or “never.”
- Nearly half of employees reuse passwords across multiple work accounts.
- One-third use the same password for personal and work accounts—making it easy for a hacker to break into your business.
How to Strengthen Your First Line of Defense
Cyber security isn’t just about technology—it’s about people. Most employees don’t ignore security on purpose; they just don’t realize the risks. That’s why education is key.
To improve security in your business:
✅ Use a password manager to create strong, unique passwords for work accounts.
✅ Require employees to use only approved, secure devices for work.
✅ Ban forwarding work emails to personal accounts.
✅ Provide regular cyber security training to keep risks top of mind.
Encourage employees to report suspicious emails or security concerns—and recognize good security habits when you see them. A well-informed team isn’t just a security risk—they’re your first line of defense.
Need Help Securing Your Business?
Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and keeping your team educated is crucial. If you need help with security training or IT policies, Systemic Digital is here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can strengthen your business’s cyber security.
