What’s the biggest cyber security risk facing businesses in Cornwall today – sophisticated hacking tools or the everyday actions of your employees?
While advanced technology plays a key role in defence, it’s often human error that opens the door to attackers. A single click on a malicious link, a reused password, or an accidental data share can put an entire organisation at risk.
This doesn’t mean your staff are careless; it highlights how skilled cybercriminals are at exploiting natural human behaviour. That’s why addressing the human side of cyber risks through training, awareness, and cultural change is just as critical as investing in technical solutions.
The reality of human cyber risks
Cybercriminals don’t always rely on sophisticated tools to break into systems. More often than not, they exploit human behaviour.
According to a recent report, there was a 34% increase in attackers exploiting vulnerabilities to gain initial access and cause security breaches compared to the previous year – a strong vulnerability often being untrained employees being taken advantage of.
Some of the main ways human error creates cyber risks for businesses in Cornwall include:
- Phishing and social engineering: Attackers send realistic-looking emails or messages designed to trick employees into sharing login credentials, clicking on malicious links, or transferring money. Even cautious staff can be deceived by increasingly convincing tactics.
- Weak or reused passwords: Staff often use simple, predictable passwords – or the same password across multiple accounts. If one set of credentials is stolen, attackers can use it to access several systems.
- Accidental data sharing: Sensitive files may be sent to the wrong recipient, uploaded to unsecured platforms, or shared over personal email accounts, putting confidential business information at risk.
- Unpatched systems or misconfigurations: IT mistakes such as failing to update software or incorrectly configuring cloud storage can expose data to the public or leave it vulnerable to attack.
- Shadow IT (unauthorised apps and tools): Employees sometimes download and use their own apps to “get the job done,” bypassing official security protocols. These tools often lack proper security, creating backdoors for attackers.
- Lack of security awareness: Staff may not recognise suspicious activity, such as an unfamiliar login attempt or unusual request. Without training, these incidents go unreported until it’s too late.
The challenge is that attackers are persistent and skilled at taking advantage of natural human behaviours like trust, curiosity, or the desire to work quickly. That’s why training and awareness are essential for building a resilient defence.
How BCNS Helps Cornwall Businesses Tackle Human Cyber Risks
At BCNS, we’ve been supporting Cornwall businesses with cyber security for over two decades. That’s why our approach is always tailored – because effective cyber protection must reflect the way your people work, the systems you rely on, and the data you need to keep safe.
Our human risk management programmes are designed to reduce the everyday risks that arise from staff mistakes, oversights, or a lack of awareness. We achieve this by combining practical training with technical safeguards and ongoing support:
- Tailored phishing simulations: We run realistic exercises that safely test how your staff respond to suspicious emails. Each simulation provides immediate feedback, so employees quickly learn to spot and block real-world phishing attempts.
- Interactive awareness programmes: Our training is designed to engage, not overwhelm. Sessions cover essential topics like identifying social engineering tactics, safe data handling, and secure online behaviour, all explained in accessible language.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) implementation: We help businesses deploy MFA across critical systems, adding a vital extra barrier against attackers even if passwords are compromised.
- Ongoing support and monitoring: Our managed services include refresher training, continuous monitoring, and regular updates to keep your staff informed and your business resilient against evolving threats.
At BCNS, we also provide a comprehensive cyber security service for Cornwall businesses, combining technical expertise with a people-first strategy. Alongside our human risk management solutions, we offer:
- Cyber risk assessments to uncover vulnerabilities in your systems and processes.
- Managed detection and response (MDR) services that proactively hunt for and neutralise threats.
- Compliance support for recognised standards such as Cyber Essentials and ISO 27001.
- Data protection and backup solutions to safeguard critical information and ensure rapid recovery.
- Business continuity planning to keep operations running smoothly during disruption.
Book Your Free Consultation Today
For Cornwall businesses, the greatest cyber risks don’t just come from malicious software or sophisticated hacking techniques – they come from everyday human mistakes. The good news is that with the right training, awareness, and safeguards like MFA, those risks can be dramatically reduced.
Book your free consultation with us today and take the first step towards a more secure business.
