Why Ongoing Cybersecurity User Awareness Training is Critical

Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue; it is a fundamental business risk. While firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and endpoint protection are critical, one of the most vulnerable points in any organization remains its people. According to IBM, human error is a factor in 95 percent of cybersecurity incidents. This means that even with the best technical defenses, a single click on a malicious link or the accidental disclosure of sensitive information can have serious consequences.

Many organizations approach user awareness training as an annual checkbox exercise. While annual training is better than no training at all, research shows that it is insufficient to protect against evolving threats. Cybercriminal tactics change quickly, and employees who receive training only once a year often forget key security practices within months.

Quarterly training offers a more effective solution. By reinforcing security concepts every three months, businesses ensure that employees remain vigilant, up to date on the latest threats, and more capable of recognizing suspicious activity. Studies show that regular reinforcement can reduce phishing susceptibility by as much as 70 percent, dramatically lowering the risk of a successful attack.

The Benefits of Quarterly Training Over Annual Training

Quarterly training programs provide several advantages over the traditional annual approach:

1. Better Retention of Knowledge

   The “forgetting curve” demonstrates that people lose a significant portion of newly learned information within weeks if it is not reinforced. Quarterly training ensures that key concepts remain fresh in employees’ minds.

2. Faster Adaptation to New Threats

   Cyber threats evolve rapidly. For example, phishing emails have become more targeted and realistic, using information from social media and public sources. Quarterly updates allow employees to learn about new tactics before they become widespread.

3. Reduced Risk of Costly Incidents

   The average cost of a data breach in Canada is over $6 million, according to IBM’s 2024 Cost of a Data Breach report. Even a small reduction in the likelihood of a breach can translate into significant savings.

4. Improved Security Culture

   Frequent training helps foster a culture where security is everyone’s responsibility. This cultural shift is critical for ensuring that security practices are followed consistently.

Meeting Insurance and Compliance Requirements

Cybersecurity insurance providers are increasingly requiring proof of ongoing user awareness training as part of policy conditions. Some providers may refuse coverage or increase premiums if an organization cannot demonstrate regular training efforts.

Similarly, regulatory requirements for Canadian businesses in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and critical infrastructure often include user training as part of compliance. For example, compliance with PIPEDA (Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act) and provincial privacy laws typically involves ensuring that employees are aware of their responsibilities in protecting personal data. Quarterly training not only improves security outcomes but also supports compliance efforts, reducing the risk of regulatory penalties.

Addressing the Risks of New Hires

New employees are often at the highest risk of falling victim to phishing and social engineering attacks. According to a 2024 Fortinet report, organizations that do not include immediate security onboarding leave themselves exposed during a critical period. By incorporating quarterly training and mandatory security onboarding for new hires, businesses can close this gap quickly.

Implementing an Effective Quarterly Training Program

A successful quarterly training program should be engaging, relevant, and practical. This can include:

• Short, scenario-based modules that address current threats.

• Phishing simulations to test and reinforce real-world skills.

• Clear reporting processes for suspicious emails or activity.

• Metrics to track progress over time and identify areas that need reinforcement.

Training should be tailored to the specific risks of the organization’s industry and should evolve based on changes in the threat landscape.

The Bottom Line for IT Leaders and Business Owners

Investing in quarterly cybersecurity user awareness training is not just about compliance—it is about protecting your business from avoidable and costly incidents. The evidence is clear: frequent, focused training significantly reduces the risk of breaches, strengthens security culture, and meets both insurance and regulatory requirements.

In today’s environment, where cyber threats are constant and evolving, quarterly training is not a luxury; it is a necessity.