New member of staff... new security risk?

When you bring someone new into your team, do you consider the security of your business?

Most business owners ensure their new employee has the essentials: a laptop, an email account, access to necessary systems, and perhaps a brief introduction to the team.

However, the initial months of a new employee's tenure are a particularly vulnerable period for your business's cyber security.

This risk often goes unnoticed.

Recent research highlights a concerning fact: almost three-quarters (71%) of new hires fall victim to phishing or social engineering attacks within their first 90 days.

This indicates that cyber criminals are specifically targeting your newest employees, and they often succeed.

Why is this happening?

Starting a new job involves trying to make a positive impression, not fully knowing all the processes, and being eager to follow instructions.

Cyber criminals exploit this uncertainty with cleverly crafted emails or messages that seem to come from the boss, HR, or tech support.

These scams might prompt the new hire to update their details on a fake HR portal or send a fake urgent invoice. Sometimes, it's simply an email impersonating a senior manager, requesting sensitive information or a quick favor.

Since the new employee hasn't yet learned who's who and what's standard, they are more susceptible to these traps. In fact, new employees are 44% more likely to fall for these scams than their more experienced colleagues.

This isn't just theoretical; the statistics support it. When attackers impersonate company executives, new hires are 45% more likely to be deceived than seasoned staff.

This significant gap highlights how vulnerable your business can be during the onboarding phase.

So… what can be done about it?

It's crucial to understand that cyber security training shouldn't be delayed until the new hire has "settled in." The early days are precisely when they need clear guidance on identifying phishing emails, understanding cyber criminal tactics, and knowing what actions to take if something seems suspicious.

Businesses that prioritize this see tangible benefits. The same report found that companies providing tailored security awareness training and conducting realistic simulations for new employees reduced their phishing risk by 30% post-onboarding. That's a significant impact, demonstrating that a little extra effort initially is worthwhile.

Of course, tools like robust security software and firewalls remain essential. But alone, they aren't sufficient. People are your first line of defense.

Currently, your new employees might be your weakest link unless you equip them with the tools and knowledge to protect your business from the start.

If you need assistance setting up straightforward, effective cyber security training for new hires, or if you want to discuss enhancing your business's overall security, we are here to help. Get in touch.