Corona-Norco Unified School District

Security Culture

The True Meaning of Security Awareness

October 2023

In most environments, security awareness involves employees who are knowledgeable about the various threats to data, systems, and people. When you inspect an email for warning signs of a phishing attack — such as poor grammar, threatening or urgent language, and suspicious links or attachments — you are using security awareness.

While these examples offer ideal definitions of awareness, there’s one key concept that deserves closer attention:

Someone being aware of something does not mean they care about that thing.

True security awareness means that individuals are not only knowledgeable of various threats, but also recognize the importance of preventing those threats from causing harm. It can further be packaged into a few general ideas -

It's an attitude

The ongoing perception of threats and the approach you take to handling daily routines with a security-first viewpoint.

It's a culture

The shared values, customs, and behaviors that determine the strength of an organization’s resistance to cybercrime.

It's a mindset

The thoughts and beliefs about general security issues and how they impact you and your organization.

How You Can Strengthen Cybersecurity Culture

Take Security Personally

While most security awareness programs focus on the security of an organization, the lessons you learn can and should be applied to your personal life. Cybercriminals are always trying to scam people in multiple ways, both in professional environments and in personal scenarios. Stay alert and make security awareness part of your life.

Be A Culture Carrier

Culture carriers are the individuals who have an intimate knowledge of an organization’s core values. They use that knowledge to positively influence those around them through problem solving and communication. You can become a culture carrier by gaining a firm understanding of security awareness and promoting the key messages of awareness programs.

Report Security Incidents Immediately

Preventing security incidents is a shared responsibility across an organization’s culture. Unfortunately, incidents can arise. When they do, it’s vital to report them immediately. Timely reporting helps organizations review what happened and spread awareness to others, which can mitigate potential damages and reduce the chances of an incident happening again.

Every member of an organization plays an important role in shaping culture, which includes a commitment to maintaining security and privacy.

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