In a recent survey, 70 percent of owners/operators of small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the United States indicated that they do not provide online safety training for their employees. At the same time, however, 53 percent said it is important for new hires to be highly proficient in basic computer skills relating to the online safety and security of their business.
The “2012 NCSA/Symantec National Small Business Study” (www.staysafeonline.org/stay-safe-online/resources) was conducted by the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) and Symantec. The study found that 87 percent of small businesses have at least one employee who uses the Internet daily.
The NCSA is working with the National Cybersecurity Education Council to formally institute and promote cybersecurity education programs in K–12 schools, higher education, and career and technical education environments across the country. The survey found that many employers are considering applicants’ digital literacy skills when making hiring decisions.
Unlimited employee HR training—one low cost—no setup, no software to install. Find out why the Software & Information Industry Association voted TrainingToday the “Best Workforce Training Solution.” Go here for more information or to sign up.
“Small businesses are expressing a strong need for employees with basic skills and knowledge about how to use technology safely, securely, ethically, and productively,” said Michael Kaiser, NCSA’s executive director. “Given the role of small businesses
in our economy, it’s so important to integrate cybersecurity training into all education levels. … SMBs should also provide ongoing training to employees to be sure skills are
reinforced and new skills are developed as the technology changes.”
“Small businesses are a driving force of our economy, and new technologies and online services are becoming an everyday part of how SMBs run their businesses,” said Brian Burch, vice president of Americas Marketing for SMB, Symantec.
No time to prepare or deliver training? With the BLR®’s TrainingToday, your employees can start taking essential training courses the same day you sign up. Workers (and supervisors) train at their convenience, 24/7. We track, and you save with this turnkey solution. Yes, it really can be this simple. Learn more.
In tomorrow’s Advisor, we’ll examine more survey results, and explore an effective and easy-to-use online training resource.