Cyber-Unsafe Employees Increasingly Put Orgs at Risk

Cyber-Unsafe Employees Increasingly Put Orgs at Risk

December 3, 2024 at 01:45PM

A survey of over 14,000 employees reveals risky behaviors regarding sensitive data access. Eighty percent use unsecure personal devices, while 40% download customer data without controls. Many also reuse passwords and bypass security policies. Increased use of AI tools raises concerns, as compliance with data handling guidelines is low.

**Meeting Takeaways:**

1. **Employee Access Behavior:**
– 80% of employees access workplace applications using personal devices without adequate security measures.

2. **Data Handling Risks:**
– 40% regularly download customer data without proper oversight.
– One-third have the ability to alter sensitive data without controls.
– Approximately 30% can independently approve significant financial transactions.

3. **Cybersecurity Compliance Issues:**
– 49% reuse login credentials across multiple work applications.
– 36% use identical login credentials for both work and personal applications.
– 65% admit to bypassing cybersecurity policies for personal convenience.

4. **Impact of AI Tools:**
– 72% of employees use AI tools in the workplace.
– 38% of employees rarely follow guidelines for handling sensitive data when engaging with AI tools, increasing risk scenarios.

5. **Overall Implication:**
– Current employee behaviors significantly heighten the risk of data breaches and leaks, necessitating a review of security protocols and training efforts.

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