The Importance of Cybersecurity Training: The Human Factor

Cybersecurity training is one of the most effective ways for Irish businesses to prevent data breaches, phishing scams, and costly mistakes. Yet many companies believe an attack won’t happen to them until it does.

It doesn’t start with hackers. It begins with just one click. One distracted employee and a convincing email could cripple a business.

More than 80% of breaches are caused by human error; this is not because people don’t care, but because they haven’t been taught how to spot the traps before they happen. Simple mistakes, such as clicking a suspicious link, reusing passwords, or failing to update devices, may seem minor but can lead to security breaches.

Research supports this claim: over 80% of data breaches are attributed to human error, and 91% of cyberattacks originate from phishing emails. For small and medium-sized businesses in Ireland, the risk is higher, as many don’t have dedicated security teams.

That’s why Cyber Security Awareness Training works. It gives people the knowledge and confidence to make safer choices every day.

Why People Matter in Cybersecurity

Hackers know it’s easier to trick a person than to get past strong technology. That’s why phishing emails and social engineering remain popular tactics. The cost is substantial, with phishing scams alone resulting in over €10 billion in annual business losses.

A single wrong click can compromise your organisation. But with the right training, people become your best defence. Structured cybersecurity training in Ireland enables staff to identify potential threats and respond promptly.

Why Cyber Security Awareness Training Matters (More Than You Think)

The biggest threat isn’t shadowy hackers. It’s human error. One bad click. One reused password. One missed update. Suddenly, there’s a breach.

Over 80% of breaches are caused by human error, not technical flaws. And 91% of attacks start with phishing emails. That’s not a stat—it’s a warning.

So what do you do? You train your people.

Not yearly. Not boring slideshows. Real, ongoing training teaches teams to spot scams, dodge traps, and protect your business.

Because when your staff are clued in:

  • That fake email doesn’t get clicked.
  • That dodgy link gets reported.
  • That password actually keeps attackers out.

Here’s the truth: culture beats compliance. If people aren’t engaged in cybersecurity, the business stays open to risk.

Stop treating awareness like a checkbox. Make the decision now—invest in Cyber Security Awareness Training and protect the future of your business. Take action today to build a stronger, safer culture.

The Benefits of Cyber Security Awareness Training

Cybersecurity awareness training helps Irish businesses mitigate risks, protect their data, and remain compliant.

Here are the main benefits:

  • Protects sensitive data by teaching employees safe online practices.
  • Ensures GDPR compliance and meets industry security regulations.
  • Promotes safer online habits, such as using strong passwords and recognizing phishing scams.
  • Secures remote and hybrid workers, reducing risks outside the office.

Building Awareness Through Training

Cyber Security Awareness Training is not about scaring people. It is about empowering them. It helps staff:

  • Spot phishing emails and malicious links.
  • Create strong, unique passwords.
  • Use multi-factor authentication properly.
  • Report suspicious activity without hesitation.

Results speak: Regular phishing simulations can cut fake email click rates by up to 60% in a year. The key is to keep training engaging and tied to real-life situations.

Creating a Culture of Security

Good training builds skills and changes mindsets. When employees see themselves as part of the defence, security becomes everyone’s job, not just IT’s. This fosters a culture where staff members protect one another and the business.

Embedding Cyber Security Awareness Training into everyday practices is what makes this culture stick.

How VBT Can Help

At VBT, we know your people are your first line of defence. Choose our hands-on, tailored training and empower your team. Contact us today to get started—turn cybersecurity awareness into an everyday habit.