What is security awareness training – and why does it matter?
A solid cybersecurity strategy has multiple layers. Technical solutions like spam filters, firewalls, antivirus software, and endpoint protection are essential – they’re your first line of defense against external threats. But even the strongest infrastructure has one key vulnerability: people.
Over 90% of data breaches start with human error. A single click on a phishing link, sharing confidential data, or using a weak password – these are simple mistakes that can have major consequences for organizations. That’s why security awareness training plays a crucial role in your company’s cybersecurity efforts.
So, what is security awareness training?
Security awareness training helps employees recognize cyber risks and teaches them how to handle those threats safely. The goal? Fewer mistakes, stronger digital resilience, and a workplace culture that prioritizes security within your organization.
Why is security awareness training so important?
A once-a-year training session won’t cut it. Cybersecurity demands constant attention. People forget, threats evolve, and old habits – like reusing weak passwords or clicking suspicious links – creep back in quickly. Without ongoing, real-world training, awareness fades and risks remain high.
Regular, relevant training builds long-term behavioral change and keeps your team sharp.
What are the benefits of security awareness training?
Reduced risk of data breaches
Employees learn how to better protect sensitive information, reducing the risk of leaks.
Improved phishing and social engineering detection
Teams become more alert to suspicious emails, calls, or links.
Faster incident reporting
Aware employees act faster, minimizing damage and speeding up response times.
Stronger security culture
Cybersecurity becomes a part of everyday decision-making across the company.
Cost savings in the long run
Prevention is cheaper than recovery. A well-trained team helps avoid costly incidents.
Compliance with regulations
From ISO 27001 and GDPR to NIS2 and industry standards, awareness training helps you demonstrate due diligence.
Greater customer trust
Clients want to work with companies that take security seriously – and training demonstrates your commitment.
Resilience against evolving threats
As cyberattacks change, your team remains prepared with up-to-date training.
Lower phishing test click rates
Companies that train regularly see phishing click rates drop by 70–90%.
Cyber insurance requirement
Many insurers now require awareness training as proof you’re actively managing risk.
What are the disadvantages of security awareness training?
Time investment
Employees and IT teams need time for training, follow-up, and evaluation.
Difficult to measure behavior
Awareness is tough to quantify – a good quiz score doesn’t always reflect real-world readiness.
Not a replacement for technical measures
Training supports, but doesn’t replace technical defenses like firewalls or monitoring.
Risk of “security fatigue”
Repetitive or dull training can cause employees to disengage.
No silver bullet
Even with training, a small percentage (4–15%) may still fall for phishing attempts.
What does security awareness training include?
Phishing simulations
Realistic, recurring email tests that train employees to recognize phishing attempts.
Bite-sized, interactive training
Microlearnings with clear explanations and quick quizzes to build knowledge step-by-step.
Behavior-driven content
Training adapted to a person’s role, risk profile, or behavior.
Gamification and certification
Engagement-boosters like badges, progress levels, and certificates.
Safe learning environment
You can never be 100% sure an employee won’t click. That’s why Phished developed Zero Incident Mail™ (ZIM): a risk-free training space where links and files can be opened safely, without putting your systems at risk. It gives users room to fail – because making mistakes is essential for long-term behavioral change, even among frequent clickers.
Easy reporting tools
One-click options to report suspicious emails.
Risk level insights
Visibility into risk scores across individuals, teams, and departments.
Up-to-date threat content
Constantly refreshed material based on the latest cyber threats.
Smooth integration
Simple setup with your existing tools – minimal IT effort required.
Security awareness training isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s essential. Technology can block many threats, but people make the real difference. By training your team, you reduce risks, strengthen your security culture, and build a resilient organization. It takes time – but the return on investment is clear. It’s not a luxury – it’s a necessity.