Human Firewall vs. Traditional Cybersecurity: Why You Need Both

Do you know what a human firewall is? Read on to learn how this approach to cybersecurity can protect your business in the future.

Did you know that the average cost of a data breach reached $4 million in 2023? Implementing effective training programs and instilling a culture of vigilance are crucial steps toward building a robust human firewall against cyber attacks. What does “human firewall” mean?

Human firewalls refer to the collective knowledge, awareness, and actions of individuals within an organization to prevent and mitigate security threats. Implementing a strong human firewall means you can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches and other cyberattacks by educating employees about best practices.

Employees play an undeniable role in an organization's overall security and risk posture. Understanding the role you and your employees play in data security can make or break your business.

What Is the Difference Between a Human Firewall and Traditional Cybersecurity?

The approach to securing systems sets human firewalls apart from traditional cybersecurity measures.

Traditional cybersecurity uses technology-based defenses to protect computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. It will include antivirus protection, encryption, intrusion detection and response systems, and more. Security technologies can detect, block, and even eliminate threats to keep businesses secure.

With cyber threats constantly evolving, however, technical security defenses cannot capture everything. A human firewall provides an additional, human layer of protection. Building a human firewall involves educating and empowering individuals to identify and respond to cyber threats effectively. It also requires implementing strong security policies, training employees, and promoting a culture of cybersecurity awareness. Indeed, employees can be a business’ greatest strength–and potentially its most significant risk–when it comes to cyber security.

Why Are Cybersecurity Employees Needed?

Cybersecurity professionals safeguard the integrity, privacy, and access to information systems and data. Their main responsibilities include:

• Identifying vulnerabilities
• Promptly responding to cyber threats
• Implementing adequate security measures to safeguard against potential cyber attacks

Is Cybersecurity the Responsibility of all Employees?

Cybersecurity professionals–whether in-house or out-sourced to a company like Ciracom Cloud–safeguard the integrity, privacy, and access to information systems and data. They identify vulnerabilities, promptly respond to cyber threats and implement security measures to safeguard against potential cyber attacks.

Maintaining a secure environment, however, does not fall solely on the shoulders of IT professionals. Every employee has a responsibility when it comes to cybersecurity and risk posture in an organization. Human firewalls are means to empower employees against the threat of cyber attacks.

Why Do We Need a Human Firewall?

Organizations need a human firewall because humans pose a significant risk, despite the advancements and sophistication of technological defenses. A human firewall strengthens your protection against social engineering, phishing emails, and other cyber attacks that exploit human vulnerabilities and sensitive information.

Comprehensive Defense

Building a human firewall is a key component of a comprehensive defense. It is especially relevant now that businesses have transitioned to hybrid work. Security has expanded beyond the walls of the office to homes and shared work spaces. Employees need to be able to work securely from anywhere with comprehensive security solutions.

Resistance to Social Engineering

Human error is the main vulnerability cyber attackers exploit for malicious activities. Cyber threats often rely on social engineering specifically designed to deceive and manipulate individuals to infiltrate an organization. Phishing scams, weak passwords, and malicious software downloads are some common examples. Having a human firewall in place protects against these and other social engineering tactics, empowering employees with the knowledge and skills to safeguard confidential information.

Enhance Security Awareness

By implementing regular training and education, your organization can create a strong security culture. A formidable human firewall means giving employees the tools to foster and promote a security-conscious environment. This way, everyone is aware and proactive about maintaining security. This will ensure that employees report potential threats promptly.

Cost Savings

The cost of a data breach includes both direct and indirect costs such as legal, regulatory and technical costs, system downtime and drain on employee productivity. Investing in a human firewall is a proactive approach that safeguards your resources and leads to significant long-term cost savings.

What Is the Human Firewall's Role in a Cybersecurity Strategy?

The first step in creating a strong human firewall that strengthens technical security measures is education and training. Your employees need to understand the threats and the tactics that cyber criminals use to manipulate behavior. Employees also need to understand the role they play in defending against attacks.

While a human firewall refers to cybersecurity awareness for employees, the responsibility doesn’t end there. The entire organization structure has responsibility to create policies and programs to keep devices and data secure. For example, cybersecurity training should be part of every employee’s onboarding; training should be ongoing and consistent; and organizations should have a “bring your own device” policy on the use of company and personal devices in the workplace.

Human firewalls refer to more than one-time training and implementation. Ongoing education, reinforcement, and support are necessary to inform employees about the latest threats and best practices. Here are a few examples of acting as a human firewall:

• Interactive Training: Regular security training sessions should be engaging and interactive to enhance learning. They can include hands-on exercises, group discussions, and practical examples. This could also involve leaderboards, badges, or competitions.
• Ongoing Communication: Provide employees with regular updates about new threats, reminders about best practices and information about the company's overall cybersecurity posture to keep cybersecurity front-and-center.
• Employee Testing: Simulating phishing attacks or other cyber attacks test employee awareness. They also provide practical experience in identifying threats.
• Reward with Incentives: Reward employees who report phishing emails, consistently follow cybersecurity policies, or perform well in simulated attacks.
• Role-Based Training: Provide role-based training. Different organizational roles may encounter distinct threats and have varying responsibilities. You can enhance their relevance and effectiveness by customizing training programs to address these specific needs.
• Feedback: Give employees ongoing feedback to improve cybersecurity practices. This lets them know their strengths and areas that require improvement. Remember, human firewalls are a means for collaboration between employees and IT security teams.

Enhance Your Cybersecurity Measures

Ciracom Cloud offers security solutions specifically tailored for small and midsize businesses. Our technology-based solutions, including Microsoft Defender and Intune, can protect your business at all times.

We also work with our customers to help them bolster their human firewall. Our partnership with KnowBe4 gives you access to comprehensive cybersecurity training. With this platform, you can effectively manage critical IT security issues such as social engineering, phishing, and ransomware attacks. KnowBe4 is the world’s largest Security Awareness Training and Simulated Phishing platform.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your needs.