What is Security Awareness Training?

In an era where digital threats are ever evolving and becoming more sophisticated, staying informed and prepared is paramount. Security Awareness Training has emerged as a powerful tool to equip individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills needed to mitigate security risks effectively.

What is Security Awareness Training & Why Does it Matter?

This type of training is an educational program designed to educate individuals and employees about various aspects of security, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and responding to potential security threats. The ultimate goal is to empower individuals to play an active role in safeguarding sensitive information, protecting systems, and reducing security vulnerabilities.

The Four Types of Security Training

A person sitting at a desk using a computer displays a 'PASSWORD' prompt on the screen, while speaking on the phone.
  • General Training: This foundational training covers basic security concepts applicable to a wide range of industries. It introduces individuals to common security risks, safe online practices, and the importance of strong passwords.
  • Industry-Specific Training: Many industries have unique security requirements. For example, CFISA offers PCI Compliance Training designed for those handling payment card data. This training educates individuals about PCI DSS standards, ensuring secure payment processing.
  • Regulatory Training: Organizations operating within regulated environments, such as healthcare, require specific training. CFISA’s HIPAA Compliance Training is tailored to the healthcare sector, addressing the intricacies of HIPAA regulations and patient data protection.
  • Customized Training: Some organizations require highly customized security training to address their unique needs. CFISA’s interactive video training can be customized to suit the specific requirements of such organizations.

The Three Main Areas in Security Awareness Training

  • Cybersecurity Awareness: This area focuses on recognizing and mitigating online threats, including phishing, malware, and social engineering. Participants learn to identify suspicious emails and websites, and how to respond effectively.
  • Physical Security Awareness: Beyond the digital realm, this aspect covers physical security, such as access control, visitor management, and the importance of secure facilities. It’s particularly relevant for businesses with physical premises.
  • Data Protection: Safeguarding sensitive data is crucial. Security awareness training emphasizes the protection of data at rest and in transit, the proper handling of confidential information, and the importance of encryption.

Who is Required to Complete Security Awareness Training?

This type of training is beneficial for everyone, from individuals seeking to enhance their online safety to organizations looking to fortify their defenses. Many businesses, especially those in regulated industries, require their employees to complete security awareness training to meet compliance standards. This includes employees who handle sensitive data, process payments, or interact with healthcare information.


Do you need security training for your employees?

At CFISA, we offer a wide range of security awareness training options to meet these diverse needs. Our training programs are comprehensive, up-to-date, and feature cutting-edge interactive video content that engages and educates learners effectively.

HIPAA Compliance Training

HIPAA law requires organizations that directly or indirectly handles a patient’s Protected Health Information (PHI) to train employees upon hire and annually to ensure that they understand the correct privacy and security practices associated to PHI.

Security Awareness Training

Cybercrime is the fastest growing crime in the world. Our personal and business accounts are being attacked daily. Train your employees on the risks associated with cybercrime and best practices to protect the business from phishing, email threats, and other cybercrimes.

PCI Compliance Training

If you accept, manage, or transmit Credit Cards and the personal information contained in the card, you need to train your employees upon hire and annually to be PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) compliant.

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