Chase Knight
June 22, 2025
The Human Factor in Cybersecurity
I’d dedicate a large chunk of our funds—about 60%—to training. Here’s why: top-tier tech is only as good as the people using it. Training would cover everything from basic security awareness for all staff (spotting phishing attempts, strong passwords, avoiding social engineering) to specialized skills for our IT and security teams (incident response, threat hunting, secure coding). Investing in certifications for key team members would validate their expertise and boost their confidence. The aim is to build a human firewall, a workforce that’s alert, informed, and ready to spot and stop threats early.
I’d zero in on essential cybersecurity tech that gives us the most bang for our buck. Instead of chasing every new gadget, I’d focus on tools that amplify our existing strengths and automate routine tasks. For instance, a strong Security Information and Event Management system would be a must-have for centralizing log data and real-time threat detection. An Endpoint Detection and Response solution would also be crucial for protecting our devices from advanced malware and ransomware. Also I’d set aside some funds for regular penetration testing and vulnerability assessments to uncover weak spots in our defenses. The goal is to select tech that works hand-in-hand with our trained staff, making them more effective and efficient. By prioritizing our people and making smart tech choices, we can stretch our budget and build a flexible, resilient security setup.
Lastly, I’d implement regular security briefings during team meetings, sharing the latest threat trends and practical tips. We’d also run simulated phishing campaigns to test employees’ vigilance and provide targeted feedback. To keep things engaging, I’d introduce gamified security challenges and reward employees who report potential security incidents. The goal is to make security a shared responsibility, where everyone feels empowered to play their part.