According to a new survey by the National Cyber Security Alliance and Symantec, more than half of America’s small businesses (53%) say it is important for new hires to have a strong proficiency in basic computer skills as it relates to online safety and security. The survey also reports that 87% of small and medium-size businesses (SMBs) have one or more employees who use the Internet for daily operations.
Other results include:
Three-fifths (59%) of SMBs say knowing the proper use of email, social networks, and engagement online is essential (38%) or important (21%) to the safety and security of their business.
More than half of SMBs say it is essential (41%) or important (15%) for new hires to understand protecting the privacy of information.
More than half of SMBs say it is essential (38%) or important (20%) for new hires to know Internet security practices like password protection measures, identifying safe websites, avoiding phishing and other scams.
More than half of SMBs say it is essential (40%) or important (15%) for new hires to have basic skills and knowledge around how to safeguard intellectual property.
“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, executive director of the National Cyber Security Alliance. “Given the role of small businesses in our economy, it’s so important to integrate cybersecurity training into all education levels – from K-life. 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, Symantec’s vice president of Americas Marketing for SMBs. “Small business owners and employees must do a better job not only becoming better educated on cybersecurity, but also better at implementing technologies to protect themselves and the information that fuels their businesses.”
The survey of 1,015 U.S. companies was conducted and released in conjunction with National Cyber Security Awareness Month.
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