Survey shows half of workers taking social media risks

A new piece of research conducted by a cyber security company has found that half of UK workers are reckless when it comes to social media, potentially creating financial or reputational problems for their employers.

This study was produced by CyberArk and its findings will be an eye-opener for business managers. According to the survey, 49% of workers put material on social media that could damage the companies they work for – and are aware of that possibility. A further 73%, which amounts to nearly three quarters, said that they had experienced cyber attacks while they were at work.

Those are not the only alarming security findings uncovered by the research, though. A reported 80% of employees stated that they use their own electronic devices for accessing work applications. The problem with that is that these devices are not fitted with security precautions.

Meanwhile, 49% indicated that they sign in to several working applications with the same passwords. This all adds up to a potential cyber security nightmare for UK businesses.

The only solution will be for HR departments to devise new cyber security policies and training. This may require a cultural shift and a corporate culture consultant can help to ensure that it is managed successfully.

David Higgins from CyberArk told HR Magazine that:

“To be truly effective, security needs to be embedded in the company’s culture.”

He then pointed to common real-world corporate security measures like CCTV and security guards as examples of how this can become a standard part of a firm’s operations.