According to a study by Cisco, the knowledge of cybersecurity terminology among Dutch companies is sub-standard. For example, one in three decision makers is not familiar with the term ‘two-factor authentication’.
The study shows that 63 percent of the 550 participants in the study put cyber security high on their agenda. In the meantime, terms such as social engineering, adware and ransomware are unknown to more than a quarter of those surveyed. At the same time, more than half of them indicate that they are not concerned about cyber security in the workplace. In short, the study indicates that more attention should be paid to cyber security in Dutch industry.
“Too often, cybercrime is still a long way from my bed show for organizations. Despite the fact that cyber security is an increasingly high priority, we see that a lack of knowledge is still the biggest stumbling block in the fight against cybercrime. We really need to train more,” says Rik Bleeker, CSR Country Manager Benelux at Cisco.
Even specific scenarios are often not seriously considered a threat. For example, more than half of those surveyed indicated that they have no concerns about data leaks from company and customer data. In more than a third of the organizations, this data is not even encrypted at all.
“The lack of knowledge causes organisations to underestimate the risk of becoming a victim of cybercrime,” warns Bleeker. “The damage of a cyber attack can easily amount to hundreds of thousands of euros. This is compounded by reputation damage. There is therefore an enormous challenge to provide employers and employees with more knowledge and skills and to raise awareness about cyber risks.”
Better training on cybersecurity needed
44 percent of those questioned said it was important for companies to provide more effective training for employees. However, an even larger proportion, namely 60%, believe that the government in particular should play a greater role. In particular, the government should intervene in the areas of education, research and awareness of cyber security.
According to Bleeker, this is already happening, but the pace has to be increased to keep up with the changes. “The basic knowledge is not even in order yet, let alone knowledge of newer developments such as the Internet of Things. This inevitably means more investment in education.”
15 hours ago
