How would you communicate the importance of security protocols to non-technical team members?

It is a mistake to assume that security procedures are technical. They are not. Security procedures are akin to locking the door and holding on to the key. Taking that one step further, does the key open the lock on your front door? If no, then why does the key to your computer open every other lock in your life? People who explain security in technical terms often do it to try and show case their knowledge rather than try to impart knowledge. Sometimes its ego, sometimes its social anxiety, sometimes its personal insecurity. The key to any presentation is to know your audience. You are presenting to impart wisdom in a way they understand. You may be an expert in security but lack presenting skills. Consider that before speaking.

Using less technical terms and highlighting the importance, risk or compliance issues around technical topics helps to keep a non technical audience interested.

Here's an example from a large acquisition (20k employees in 60+ countries) which was low in cybersecurity maturity. Lack of MFA and proper identity management led to an inability to trust VPN connections. Their executives did not understand why they would not be permitted to access trusted networks. We addressed it in three ways: 1. Described to execs in plain English the risk (unknown actors accessing valuable resources), the likelihood (high), and impact (multi-$million). 2. Created a reasonable solution allowing untrusted VPN users to access popular, low-risk content. 3. Created a clear process to on-board users MFA with fully vetted identities with metrics. Clear communication, a middle ground, and campaign with metrics built trust.

Use basic language that can he understood when you're talking to a non technical audience and by that I mean language where the audience doesn't need to use Google or chatgbt to decipher the communication.

One thing I found helpful is to associate the technical security topic to the risk/ losses which are related to the field of business of the unit. This usually helps them understand the importance of the security as a topic.

Security is a shared responsibility within our organization, much like a team sport where every player's defense is crucial. If one person neglects their role, it compromises the entire team's effort. By following security protocols, you protect not only yourself but also your colleagues and the company. It's about teamwork, and each member's commitment to security strengthens our collective defense against potential threats. Together, we create a secure and resilient environment.

Communicating the importance of security protocols to non-technical team members involves emphasizing shared responsibility and teamwork. Security is akin to playing a team sport where each player's defense contributes to overall success. By adhering to protocols, everyone plays a crucial role in safeguarding not just their own data but also that of colleagues and the organization. Highlighting how individual actions can impact the team's security underscores the collective effort needed to defend against potential threats effectively. This approach fosters a culture of vigilance and accountability, enhancing overall organizational resilience against cybersecurity risks.

In my view, robust online safety is a lot like a chain - its general firmness is dependent on the servants performing the least of it. There is a possibility that the administration security practices such as regular backups, restricting administrative rights, and a good password policy will be existing when the employees are deviling in unsafe email attachments and websites. Through cooperative actions and compliance with best practices, we are able to put up a powerful line of defense that scares off threats and cyberattacks.

Just like wearing seatbelts becomes second nature because it’s a habit everyone around you follows, security protocols should become a natural part of your workday

As in a society we have rights and duties, adhering to protocols is one of your duties towards the corporate "society" to which you belong.

In fact, real-world data breaches become opportunities for the professional community to learn. Studying these incidents thoroughly, enterprises can learn a great deal of things about how to improve security and thereby avoid such breaches in their infrastructures.

Real-life stories of security breaches highlight the importance of following security protocols. For example, when a company suffers a data leak because an employee clicked a malicious link, it shows how one simple action can have major consequences. These stories make abstract risks real, reminding us that everyone is vulnerable. They serve as cautionary tales, illustrating the potential fallout from not adhering to security guidelines, and reinforce why everyone must follow these protocols diligently.

Communicating the importance of security protocols through real-life stories of breaches is compelling for non-technical team members. These examples illustrate the tangible risks and consequences of lax security practices. Stories of data leaks or cyberattacks caused by simple errors like clicking on malicious links highlight how everyone's actions impact organizational security. They serve as cautionary tales, emphasizing the need for adherence to protocols to mitigate risks and protect sensitive information. Such narratives make cybersecurity concerns relatable and underscore the collective responsibility in maintaining a secure environment.

Great post! Real-life examples really show why following security rules is so important. It's scary how a simple click on a bad link can cause big problems. Sharing these stories helps everyone understand that cybersecurity is everyone's job. Thanks for highlighting this!

Security protocols can seem daunting, but breaking them down into simple steps helps. For instance, think of multifactor authentication as a second lock on your online accounts. Just like double-checking your car locks, this extra step verifies your identity and keeps your information safer. Simplifying the language around security protocols makes them more approachable and easier to adopt in your daily routine, ensuring better overall security.

Communicating the importance of security protocols to non-technical team members involves making complex concepts understandable through relatable analogies. Simplifying terms like "multifactor authentication" by comparing it to having a second lock on your online accounts helps demystify the process. By likening it to double-checking that you've locked your car, you emphasize the added layer of security and verification. This approach makes protocols more accessible and encourages adoption in daily practices, reinforcing the role of simple actions in enhancing overall cybersecurity resilience.

When explaining security protocols to non-technical team members, focus on real-world analogies they can understand. For example, compare strong passwords to using a unique key for your house instead of a simple one everyone knows. Explain how security protocols are like good hygiene practices - they might seem like a hassle, but they prevent bigger problems down the road. By keeping it relatable and focusing on the benefits, you'll encourage better security habits within your team.

Great point! Making security steps easy to understand helps everyone stay safe. Explaining multifactor authentication as a second lock for your online accounts is a perfect example. Clear and simple explanations make it easier for people to follow and protect themselves. Thanks for sharing!

Continuous education is imperative to handle evolving threat landscape, compliance and regulations and protecting intellectual property

Continuous education is vital for keeping security protocols top of mind. Regular training, updates on new threats, and best practice reminders maintain high awareness. Just as staying informed about software updates is crucial, staying updated on security measures ensures you're always equipped to protect company data. Consider these educational efforts part of your professional development—an investment in your career and the safety of our organization.

Emphasizing continuous education is key to reinforcing security protocols among non-technical team members. Regular training and updates on emerging threats maintain awareness and readiness to protect company data. Linking these efforts to professional development highlights their dual impact: improving personal skills and enhancing organizational security. This approach cultivates a proactive cybersecurity culture where everyone is engaged in safeguarding valuable information assets.

Absolutely agree with this! Continuous education is indeed essential in maintaining robust security protocols. Regular training and updates not only keep us informed about the latest threats but also ensure that we are well-prepared to counter them. Thanks for highlighting this important aspect!

Although the foundation of such communication relies on simplifying the theoretical knowledge. However,I have found that even the simplest of supporting visual accompanied by the theoretical concept can solidify the knowledge. It surely leaves a lasting impact since humans have always been more susceptible to visuals. This visual could be anything, a simple photo, PPT or my favourite: a demo of the impact! For instance, after explaining about social engineering attacks, a simple phishing demonstration to show how their OTP can be misused would definitely anchor the knowledge. Another example would be explanation of encryption supported by MiTM demonstration.