When it comes to cybersecurity, the biggest threat might already be inside your organization—and it’s not as sinister as it sounds. According to countless studies, human error is the #1 cause of data breaches. From clicking suspicious links to using weak passwords, even well-meaning employees can unknowingly open the door to cybercriminals.
The good news? Awareness is the first step toward prevention. Let’s break down six common ways employees can put your business at risk—starting with one of the most overlooked habits.
1. Increasing Cybersecurity Risk by Using Weak Passwords
We get it—remembering a dozen complex passwords feels like a full-time job. But when employees fall back on weak, easy-to-guess passwords (or worse, reuse the same one across multiple accounts), they’re basically handing cybercriminals a VIP pass to your network.
Hackers love low-hanging fruit. A simple brute-force attack or a quick scan of leaked credentials from past breaches can crack weak passwords in seconds. And once they’re in? It’s not just that one account at risk—it’s your entire business.
Here’s the kicker, even the strongest firewall can’t protect you from a password like “qwerty” or “123456”. Strong cybersecurity starts with strong habits. This includes creating unique, complex passwords—and using a password manager to keep them all straight.
Tip: Encourage your team to use passphrases (e.g., LayeredSecurityMatters! or Bread&Butter4Me) and enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.
2. Falling for Phishing Attacks
Phishing emails aren’t just spam—they’re sneaky, convincing, and often look like they’re from someone you trust. One wrong click can open the door to malware, ransomware, or a full-on data breach. And unfortunately, employees are often the easiest targets.
Cybercriminals are getting better at crafting emails that look legit—think fake invoices, urgent password resets, or messages “from the CEO.” That’s why ongoing training and awareness are key.
Tip: Encourage your team to Pause, Consider, Verify before clicking. Elevity even created a 1-minute video to explain this technique.
3. Manipulated by Social Engineering Cyberthreats
Not all cyberattacks start with code—some start with conversation. Social engineering is all about manipulating people into giving up sensitive info, whether it’s over email, a phone call, or even a casual chat in the office lobby.
These attackers play on trust, urgency, or fear to get what they want. An employee might think they’re helping IT reset a password or responding to a vendor request—when in reality, they’re handing over the keys to your data.
Tip: Build a culture of healthy skepticism. Train your team to verify requests, question urgency, and never share confidential information without double-checking the source.
4. Using Unsecure Personal Devices
When employees use personal devices to access work files or apps, it’s not just convenient—it’s risky. Without proper security measures, those smartphones, tablets, or laptops can become easy entry points for cybercriminals.
That’s why a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must. Clear guidelines on what’s allowed, required security settings, and how to report lost or stolen devices can make all the difference.
Tip: Set up secure portals or virtual desktops that give employees access to what they need—without putting your entire network at risk. Flexibility is great, but only when it’s backed by smart security.
5. Exposing Data via Lost or Stolen Workplace Devices
Losing a work laptop or phone isn’t just inconvenient—it’s a potential data breach waiting to happen. If that device isn’t encrypted, password-protected, or remotely wipeable, sensitive company info could fall into the wrong hands fast.
Whether it’s left behind in a coffee shop or swiped from a car, lost or stolen devices are a real cybersecurity threat. And with more employees working remotely or on the go, the risk is only growing.
Tip: Equip devices with strong security settings, enforce automatic lockouts, and make sure employees know how to report a lost device immediately. A quick response can mean the difference between a close call and a costly breach.
6. Ignoring Cybersecurity Policies
Even the best cybersecurity policies won’t protect your business if employees ignore them. Whether it’s skipping software updates, disabling antivirus tools, or brushing off password rules, these small actions can create big vulnerabilities.
Some employees might not realize the risk—they just want to get their work done faster. That’s where regular, engaging cybersecurity training comes in. We recommend holding sessions at least twice a year, with quick refreshers or phishing simulations in between to keep awareness high.
Tip: Cybersecurity isn’t just IT’s job—it’s everyone’s responsibility. When your team understands the “why” behind your organization’s policies, they’re more likely to follow them.
Wondering if it’s time for a review of your organization’s cybersecurity defenses and policies? Take our free Cybersecurity Risk Assessment and find out your organization’s Cyber Risk Score. It takes just a few short minutes and you’ll gain a better understanding of your organization’s cybersecurity strengths while identifying any gaps that need to be addressed.
