The frequency of cyber-attacks is steadily increasing. Not only do they pose a considerable risk to businesses, but they can also have severe consequences for the people working in those businesses. The amount of business lost because of cyber-attacks averaged 1.52 million dollars, a report by IBM states. The Cisco Cybersecurity Reports show that 50 percent of large organizations, with a workforce of more than 10,000, spend at least $1 million on security every year.

HR plays an essential role in preventing cyberattacks. By understanding the risks and vulnerabilities of your company and its employees, you can help to protect yourself from potential attacks. One of the most important things that HR can do is to identify who is responsible for cyber security within your organization. This includes determining who has access to sensitive information and who is responsible for ensuring that this information is secure. By doing this, you can help to prevent unauthorized access to your company's data and systems.

Additionally, HR should also be aware of the consequences of a cyberattack. By understanding the financial damage caused by a successful attack, you can take steps to minimize these losses. This will protect your company financially and deter other potential attackers from trying their luck.

Here are a few prime reasons human resources experts are crucial in preventing cyberattacks.

1. HR handles sensitive data

It is important for HR staff to protect company information since this sensitive information can often contain personal data about employees. HR manages sensitive information by working with the company's IT and security professionals to ensure that HR staff appropriately protects this information. This includes providing that:

• All the computers used by HR staff are configured with anti-virus software and firewalls.
• All electronic files that are related to HR management are stored on secure servers.
• The password for all electronic files is confidential and not shared with anyone outside of HR.
• The encryption of all communication between HR staff and the outside world is always in use.

2. HR supports compliance

HR professionals are often valuable in compliance-related initiatives because they understand how the organization works and its policies. As a result, they can help identify potential risks and vulnerabilities and develop solutions that minimize the risks posed to the company.

Additionally, HR professionals can help enforce company policies by monitoring employee behavior and implementing disciplinary action accordingly. They can also help identify potential candidates for illegal or unethical behavior and report them to management for further investigation. Hence, HR specialists are crucial components of any compliance team, and their talents make them an invaluable tool in any effort to safeguard the security and assets of the firm.

3. HR outlines work policies

Legal counsel and HR employees frequently collaborate on security policies, including developing, upkeep, and enforcing authorized usage guidelines. These regulations may be made to guard against unlawful access to or usage of assets, staff, and company data.

To create an effective security policy, it's essential to understand the different types of laws that may apply to it. For example, many companies have regulations governing the storage and use of personal information. They also need to be aware of laws that pertain to computer intrusion and data theft.

HR staff members also need to be familiar with the company's legalese to draft and enforce these policies effectively. This includes understanding contract terms, ensuring procedures are adequately documented, and using formal legal language when drafting them. It's also essential to consult with legal counsel when creating new or amended policies to comply with applicable law changes.

4. HR gives fresh insight

HR staff can bring a wealth of new ideas regarding managing business risks. Their perspective can help IT, and security professionals maximize business resilience while minimizing business risks.

For example, HR staff may be able to identify changes in employee behavior that indicate something is wrong. This could lead to changes in IT or security policies that would protect the company from potential threats. Alternatively, HR staff can identify areas where the company is overcomplicating things and developing too many redundant procedures. This can also lead to reduced risk exposure and improved efficiency.

HR teams are often well-placed to provide input on several topics related to risk management, so companies need to listen carefully when they do speak up. By doing so, businesses can ensure that they're making the right decisions and taking appropriate precautions for their safety and security.

5. HR promotes a culture of cybersecurity

Although everyone in a firm should be working to promote a cybersecurity culture, HR is one of the most critical players in developing a positive work environment. HR can play an essential role in setting the tone and enforcing cybersecurity standards across the organization. They can also help create a sense of community among employees, which will help them feel safe and comfortable reporting any incidents or breaches they may experience.

All HR members must be up-to-date on the latest cybersecurity trends to effectively promote a culture of security within their organization. By doing so, they’ll help protect their employees from harm and safeguard their data from being stolen or compromised.

Final Takeaways

HR can play an important role in cybersecurity by ensuring that employees are adequately trained and equipped to protect their data and systems. They can also help identify and address potential security threats before they become a problem. Finally, they can work with the IT department to ensure that all systems are integrated and share information securely.

About the Author: George Passidakis is the Director of Sales and Marketing at Apex Technology Management, providing Cybersecurity in Sacramento, Fresno, Chico, and Redding regions. George has 30+ years of experience as an Information Technology professional. He also has extensive knowledge of Microsoft technology and other SMB IT products and solutions. Stay connected via LinkedIn.