Cyber security isn’t just a tech problem; it’s a human problem too.

Studies estimate that human error causes 68% to an enormous 95% of data breaches.

Even the lower figure means over two-thirds of breaches are people related.

While human error is a well-documented threat, there’s a further Achilles heel, less recognised but perhaps even more dangerous – the silence that follows a cyber breach. Social taboo around reporting mistakes is undermining your systems, leaving you open to threat.

Taboo – what taboo?

Many organisations aren’t even aware that this taboo exists – yet it is pervasive.

For example, a 2024 study found that 50% of employees are scared to report any security mistakes.

Reasons for reporting reluctance

Why don’t employees speak up?:

• Fear of repercussions; being disciplined or reputational damage
• Embarrassment
• Not wanting to overreact or trigger a disproportionate response
• Unclear reporting systems

Here we see a combination of cultural and organisational problems at the root of the barriers that employees experience to reporting cyber security breaches.

The blow out impact

Think of a cyber security breach as a catching illness, like the flu – if someone hides it, it spreads.

Left untreated can infect the whole system.

The quicker they are reported the quicker they can be isolated, treated and hopefully minimised. A delay of even a few hours in reporting could mean a minor breach metamorphosises into a major one.

Cyber-attacks can bring significant costs, 43% of organisations that experienced cyber incidents in 2024 lost customers, and 47% struggled to attract new customers.

Therefore, it is of utmost importance that taboo does not torpedo your security, and your organisation.

Combatting Cyber security taboos

One of the most effective defences? Shift your internal culture around cybersecurity.

Raise awareness, create a culture of trust, provide accessible training and have clarity in your internal protocols so your employees become your strongest defence against cyber-attacks.

Find out more about how we can help you here: https://products.106comms.com/cybersecurity/

Don’t let taboo torpedo your cyber security!