🧭 Introduction

In today’s connected workplace, cybersecurity isn’t just an IT problem — it’s everyone’s responsibility.

Cyberattacks are increasingly sophisticated, targeting people just as often as systems. One misplaced click or weak password can lead to data breaches, financial loss, reputational damage, or regulatory fines.

This training equips you with the knowledge and best practices to recognize risks and protect company and customer data. You don’t need to be a tech expert — just aware, alert, and careful.

📌 Admin Tip: Update sections marked with [Your Company Name] and [Tool Name] to match your systems.

🔐 Section 1: Why Cybersecurity Matters

Cyber threats affect businesses of all sizes. Common risks include:

• Phishing Attacks: Fake emails or messages that trick users into giving up credentials or downloading malware
• Ransomware: Malicious software that locks data and demands payment
• Data Breaches: Unauthorized access to sensitive or confidential information
• Insider Threats: Accidental or intentional misuse of access by employees or contractors
• Compliance Violations: Failing to follow data protection laws (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA)

Stat: Human error accounts for over 80% of data breaches (source: IBM Security Report)

📧 Section 2: Recognizing Phishing & Social Engineering

Phishing is one of the most common and dangerous threats. It often involves:

• Emails that look official but come from fake addresses
• Urgent messages that try to panic or pressure you
• Links to fake login pages (spoofed sites)
• Attachments that contain malicious code

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Unusual sender or address mismatch
• Typos and bad grammar
• Unexpected file attachments or login requests
• Messages asking for sensitive data (passwords, SSNs, bank info)
• Offers that seem too good to be true

Example:

Subject: “Your payroll information is incorrect. Click here to update now.”

From: hr-department@yourcornpany.com (note the typo)

🔐 Rule of thumb: If you weren’t expecting it, don’t click it. When in doubt, verify through a separate channel.

🔑 Section 3: Password Hygiene & Access Controls

Passwords are your first line of defense. Weak or reused passwords are a major vulnerability.

Password Best Practices:

• Use at least 12 characters, with upper/lowercase, numbers, and symbols
• Never reuse passwords across systems
• Avoid personal references (birthdays, names, hobbies)
• Don’t write them down where they can be seen
• Use a company-approved password manager (e.g., [Tool Name])

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):

• Adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code or app-based approval
• Enabled on all key systems (email, VPN, admin tools)
• If you lose your MFA device, report it immediately

✏️ [Insert how MFA is implemented in your company’s systems]

💻 Section 4: Secure Device Usage

Whether you’re working in the office, at home, or traveling, you must secure your devices.

Guidelines:

• Lock your screen when you step away
• Use strong passwords or biometrics on laptops and phones
• Only use company-approved software and storage
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi without VPN
• Keep devices updated with the latest software patches
• Report lost or stolen devices immediately to [IT Contact Info]

⚠️ Avoid using USB drives from unknown sources. They may contain malicious code.

📂 Section 5: Protecting Sensitive Data

You may handle sensitive information such as:

• Personal data (employee/customer names, addresses, IDs)
• Financial details (invoices, payroll, credit card info)
• Business IP (designs, code, product plans)

Data Handling Rules:

• Access only what you need for your job
• Don’t store sensitive info on personal devices
• Use encrypted file sharing (e.g., [Tool Name])
• Don’t send sensitive data over unsecured channels (like plain-text email)

🔒 Confidential information must be labeled and handled per the [Your Company Name] Data Classification Policy.

📉 Section 6: What Not to Do

• Don’t use the same password for personal and work accounts
• Don’t click unknown links in email or chat tools (even from known contacts if suspicious)
• Don’t install browser plugins or software without IT approval
• Don’t access company systems from shared or public computers
• Don’t assume “it’s someone else’s job” to report something unusual

🧠 Section 7: Incident Reporting

The sooner a security incident is reported, the faster it can be contained.

Report immediately if you:

• Clicked a suspicious link or entered credentials on a fake page
• Lost a company laptop or phone
• Think your password was stolen
• Notice unusual activity in your email or accounts
• Receive a report from a customer about data exposure

How to Report:

Submit a ticket to [IT Helpdesk Portal Link] or email security@yourcompany.com

For urgent situations, call [Emergency Contact Number]

All reports are confidential and non-punitive. You’ll never be penalized for reporting something in good faith.

🧪 Section 8: Common Scenarios & What to Do

🔸 Scenario: You receive an email from the CEO asking for gift cards urgently

• Do: Check the sender address and message tone
• Don’t: Respond or purchase anything
• Next Step: Report it as phishing to [security@yourcompany.com]

🔸 Scenario: Your laptop won’t start and you're prompted to pay Bitcoin to “unlock” it

• Do: Disconnect from Wi-Fi immediately
• Next Step: Call IT and submit an incident ticket
• Don’t: Pay or attempt to restart multiple times

🔸 Scenario: You see confidential payroll files in a shared folder you weren’t meant to access

• Do: Avoid opening or sharing the files
• Next Step: Report the access issue to IT or HR

📚 Section 9: Compliance, Policies & Legal Requirements

✏️ [Customize this section to your jurisdiction and industry]

Your company must comply with:

• [e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, CCPA, ISO 27001]
• Internal security policies
• Industry-specific regulations for customer or patient data

Failure to follow these policies can result in disciplinary action, fines, or legal exposure. Your participation in this training is part of our ongoing compliance program.

📝 Section 10: Training Recap & Acknowledgment

Key Reminders:

• Think before you click — especially on email or chat
• Use strong passwords and enable MFA
• Keep your devices secure and up to date
• Handle data responsibly — encrypt, don’t overshare
• Report anything suspicious early

✅ Acknowledgment

I confirm that I’ve read and understood the Cybersecurity Awareness Training. I understand how to identify risks, follow company security policies, and report suspicious activity as needed.

Signature: ____________________ Date: _____________