6.3 Information Security Awareness, Education and Training

Personnel of the organisation and relevant interested parties should receive appropriate information security awareness, education and training and regular updates of the organisation’s information security policy, topic-specific policies and procedures, as relevant for their job function.

Information security awareness, education, and training refers to the process of educating individuals about the importance of protecting sensitive information and teaching them how to do so effectively. This can include providing employees with information about information security risks and threats, such as malware, phishing attacks, and data breaches, as well as training on how to protect against these threats.

Several methods can be used to deliver information security awareness, education, and training, including:

• Classroom-based training: This involves providing employees with in-person training on information security topics through group lectures or individualised instruction.
• Online training: This can be done through webinars, online courses, or other forms of e-learning. This allows employees to access training materials at their own pace and can be a convenient option for organisations with a dispersed workforce.
• Security awareness campaigns: These are ongoing campaigns that provide employees with information about information security threats and best practices through a variety of channels, such as emails, posters, or social media.
• Simulation exercises involve simulating a security breach or other security incident to teach employees how to respond appropriately.
• On-the-job training: This involves providing employees with training and guidance as they perform their job duties, allowing them to learn about information security in a hands-on setting.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to delivering information security awareness, education, and training, and the best method will depend on the needs and resources of the organisation. It is often beneficial to use a combination of these methods to ensure that employees receive a well-rounded education on information security.