Expert tips on how to reduce cyber risks during the employee onboarding process

Safeguarding sensitive data and minimising vulnerabilities is an essential part of protecting business integrity. While many organisations focus their cybersecurity efforts on external threats, they often overlook a hidden vulnerability on their own premises: the employee onboarding process.

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Here are 3 reasons why your employee onboarding process is a weak spot for cybersecurity breaches

Reason #1 Lack of user access control

During onboarding, employees are granted access to various systems, databases and applications – that's all good and well. But a problem may arise when access permissions are not carefully managed and controlled. Without proper oversight, employees could find themselves with access to sensitive data. This can lead to data breaches.

Reason #2 Malware & virus infections

Employee onboardings usually involve downloading software or accessing shared files. These seemingly harmless actions, if not carefully monitored, can lead to the introduction of malware and viruses into your organisation. A single download of a malicious file or a visit to a compromised website can have terrible consequences. Once malware infiltrates your network, it can spread rapidly, compromising security and – once again – putting sensitive data at risk.

Reason #3 Lack of cyber risk awareness

New employees are excellent targets for cyberattacks. Why? They may not be cyber-savvy or clued up on cybersecurity best practices. Phishing attempts, social engineering and other manipulative tactics used by cybercriminals become more effective when employees lack the knowledge and skills to recognise and respond to security threats. As such, weak passwords and other poor security practices can be exploited, granting unauthorised access to your company's resources.

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All of this demonstrates how the employee onboarding process can easily become a weak spot for your company’s cybersecurity. Failing to address these vulnerabilities can have far-reaching consequences. That’s why we came up with five essential tips to reduce cyber risk during your onboarding process. By implementing these strategies, you can proactively strengthen your organisation's defences in the continuous struggle to counter cyber threats.

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5 essential tips to reduce cyber risk during the employee onboarding process

Tip 1: Fortify access controls and user privileges.

The first line of defense against cybersecurity breaches during the employee onboarding process lies in ensuring robust access control. This includes the careful management and regulation of access permissions across databases and applications. Rigorous access control guarantees that only authorised personnel have access to sensitive information. One effective approach to implement access control is relying on centralised monitoring. It provides real-time insights and enables the swift detection of potential threats and vulnerabilities, facilitating prompt intervention and mitigation. This in turn strengthens security.

Tip 2: Implement clear and standardised cybersecurity policies for new employees.

To ensure compliance and safeguard company data and IT devices, it's essential to establish and enforce organisation-wide security standards for new employees. Implement clear guidelines and procedures, for example strong password policies, regular software updates and encryption and multi-factor authentication (MFA).

Optionally, you can add automation through a Mobile Device Management (MDM) system to minimise risk caused by human error.

Tip 3: Conduct cybersecurity awareness training for new employees.

Making employees aware of the importance of cybersecurity is essential: 1 in 2 organisations experienced a successful cyberattack in the past 3 years, according to the SoSafe Human Risk Review report. Employee cybersecurity training should cover topics such as recognising phishing emails, understanding social engineering tactics and the importance of creating strong and unique passwords. If employees are well-informed about cybersecurity best practices from the beginning, you reduce the likelihood of falling victim to common cyber threats during the onboarding process.

Tip 4: Maintain up-to-date antivirus and anti-malware solutions.

Regularly auditing and updating your cybersecurity policies and procedures is crucial, as new threats are constantly emerging and technologies change. This proactive approach ensures that your organisation remains well-prepared for potential cyber threats and can identify potential weaknesses in your defenses.

Tip 5: Establish a robust IT framework.

Strengthen your IT infrastructure to reduce the risk of cybersecurity breaches during the critical onboarding phase. A strong IT framework, supported by robust technical assistance, serves as the backbone of your cybersecurity strategy. An IT support agent can prove to be a instrumental advantage in this process, as they provide guidance, oversee configurations and assist in resolving technical issues.

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By implementing these five key tips, you can create a comprehensive defence strategy that boosts your security standing, minimises vulnerabilities and strengthens your organisation against ever-present cyber threats.

SoSafe x deeploi

To ensure a successful and secure onboarding experience for your new employees, SoSafe and deeploi have joined forces. Together, they offer a holistic IT solution that combines cybersecurity awareness training with a state-of-the-art IT setup that includes expert support, offering you peace of mind as you navigate the complex landscape of cybersecurity.

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