“Education, stupid,” you might say, paraphrasing Bill Clinton’s famous slogan. Just as the economy is based on solid management, effective cybersecurity requires solid educational practices, said Robert Posłajko from Axence.
The human element in cybersecurity
Cybersecurity experts often say that the strongest and weakest link in any security system is a human.
While machines and software can be updated and configured for optimal performance, people require continuous education and awareness. Posłajko emphasizes that, unlike computers, people cannot simply be “updated” with new knowledge and skills; a structured, continuous educational approach is therefore necessary.
Engagement through meaning
One of the biggest challenges in cybersecurity education is keeping participants engaged. Traditional training methods are often perceived as tedious and uninteresting. To combat this, Posłajko suggests that training should be interactive and directly related to learners’ everyday activities. By making individuals aware of how their personal information may be at risk, educators can create a sense of urgency and meaning around training content.
A practical approach to learning
Effective cybersecurity education should be practical and accessible. Posłajko recommends using platforms that offer constant access to training materials, tests and progress tracking.
Short, focused training sessions that employees can engage in at their convenience are more effective than long, infrequent seminars. For example, a short session on password security can be immediately applicable and more memorable.
Overcoming the forgetting curve
Educational psychology introduces the concept of the “forgetting curve”, which suggests that most information is forgotten soon after it is learned unless it is repeated repeatedly. To combat this, cybersecurity training should be an ongoing process with regular refreshers. This ensures that critical information remains in memory and can be effectively applied to real-world situations.
Integrating cybersecurity into organizational culture For cybersecurity training to be truly effective, it must be integrated into the organizational culture. This means that leaders at all levels must be committed to ongoing education and awareness. Posłajko emphasizes the importance of engaging decision-makers and ensuring that they set a positive example for the rest of the organization.
Regulatory requirements and best practices
Legislation such as the NIS II Directive increasingly requires cybersecurity training and awareness. These regulations are intended to ensure that organizations maintain a basic level of security awareness and preparation. For companies, compliance with these regulations is not only a legal obligation, but also a strategic necessity to protect sensitive information and maintain operational integrity.
Cybersecurity education is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process that requires the involvement of both individuals and organizations. By making training meaningful, practical and integrated into everyday business practices, organizations can significantly improve their cybersecurity posture. As Robert Posłajko advises, building a culture of continuous education and awareness is the key to staying ahead of constantly evolving threats in the digital landscape.
