Debunking the 3 Most Common Training Myths

In the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, training is not just a “nice to have”—it’s an essential part of staying ahead of potential threats. However, we hear some common misconceptions about cyber training from many of our customers that could hinder your team’s effectiveness. Let’s debunk the 3 most common training myths:

Myth #1: One Training Session Is Effective

It might sound crazy, but a single training session that lasts an hour or longer could actually backfire. This can cause training overload, leading to diminished retention, boredom, and burnout. Not to mention retention and recall of information is less likely when only delivered in one setting. Instead, focus on short, frequent sessions. These bite-sized pieces of information will stick with employees better and won’t overwhelm them.

Think of it like building a muscle. Just as athletes train regularly but in controlled amounts, cybersecurity knowledge needs steady reinforcement, not an avalanche of information. For example, a monthly session of no more than 15-30 minutes can be far more impactful than a single, hour-long crash course. By spacing out training and making it routine, employees stay engaged and the information remains fresh.

Myth #2: Not All Employees Need Cybersecurity Training

It’s easy to assume that only certain employees, like those in IT or finance, need cybersecurity training. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Cybercriminals often target the weakest link in the chain, which could be anyone in your organization — from the part-time detailer to the dealer principal.

Every employee interacts with technology in some way, and just a single untrained staff member can inadvertently open the door to a cyberattack. In fact, human error is a leading cause of data breaches. According to the IBM Cyber Security Intelligence Index Report, human errors were a major cause of 95% of all data breaches. Ensuring that all employees receive the same comprehensive cybersecurity training significantly reduces the risk of a breach occurring due to a lack of awareness.

Remember, cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. A unified training program ensures that all team members are on the same page and understand the importance of protecting sensitive information.

Myth #3: Once Trained, Always Prepared

Completing cybersecurity training once doesn’t guarantee long-term protection. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and attackers are becoming more sophisticated every day.

Regularly updating your training materials and incorporating real-world examples keeps the information relevant and ensures your staff is prepared against the latest tactics.

If you want to develop a true culture of cybersecurity, consider incorporating ongoing, real-time simulations and refresher courses to keep your team sharp. By continuously educating your employees, you empower them to recognize and report suspicious activities effectively. Remember, you’re only as secure as your weakest link.

TL;DR

Cybersecurity training isn’t just a box to check — it’s an ongoing, evolving process. Make sure your training is:

• Frequent but not overwhelming: Frequent, short bursts of training are more effective than long, drawn-out sessions.
• All-inclusive: Ensure everyone completes all cybersecurity training, from your part-time detailers to your dealer principal.
• Evolving: Cybersecurity is constantly changing. Your training should adapt to keep pace.

These are only the 3 most common training myths, but by taking a strategic approach, you can significantly reduce your cybersecurity risks. Proton’s training programs help dealerships keep pace with evolving threats without overwhelming their staff. Remember, cybersecurity is a team effort, and the proper training ensures every player knows their role in defending against attacks.