Nudges in Security Awareness for Executives and Leadership Teams

Executives set the tone for an organization’s security culture, but their high-level access makes them top targets for cybercriminals. 72% of senior executives were targeted by cyberattacks in the past 18 months (BusinessWire, 2024). Threats like spear phishing, business email compromise (BEC), and credential theft exploit their authority to gain unauthorized access.

To counter these risks, targeted security nudges provide timely, gentle reminders that reinforce cyber awareness and secure decision-making—all without disrupting executive workflows. This blog explores why executives are high-risk targets, key security awareness nudges designed for leadership teams, and how to integrate these nudges seamlessly into executive workflows.

Why Executives Are Prime Targets

Executives have high-level access and decision-making authority, making them prime targets for cybercriminals. Attackers exploit their roles using advanced tactics to bypass security defenses. This includes spear phishing, business email compromise (BEC), and credential theft.

• Spear Phishing Attacks: Cybercriminals send highly personalized emails that appear legitimate, tricking executives into clicking malicious links or revealing sensitive information.
• Business Email Compromise (BEC): Attackers impersonate executives to request fraudulent wire transfers or gain access to confidential data.
• High-Value Access: Leadership roles come with elevated permissions, meaning a single compromise can expose critical systems and sensitive data.
• Time Constraints: With demanding schedules, executives may unintentionally overlook security protocols, increasing their vulnerability to attacks.

How Nudges Can Help

To enhance executive security without adding complexity, well-timed security nudges serve as gentle reminders that reinforce safe behaviors at critical moments. These nudges encourage proactive cybersecurity habits while fitting seamlessly into daily routines.

• Subtle, well-timed security nudges keep executives vigilant without disrupting their workflows.
• Focused on high-risk moments, these nudges appear at key decision points, reinforcing secure behaviors.
• Seamlessly integrated into daily workflows, they help leaders maintain security awareness while staying productive.

To explore how nudge theory strengthens security awareness, read the Keepnet blog on Nudge Theory for Security Awareness.

Key Nudges for Executives and Leadership Teams

Security nudges serve as timely reminders to reinforce safe decision-making without disrupting executive workflows. Below are 6 essential nudges designed to help executives stay vigilant against cyber threats.

1. Email Verification Prompts

Reminders to double-check the sender’s email address and confirm unusual requests.

• Example Nudge: “This email requests a wire transfer. Have you verified the sender’s identity through a secondary channel?”
• Why It Matters: Business Email Compromise (BEC) attacks exploit executives' trust and urgency. A quick verification step can prevent costly fraud.
• Implementation Tip: Integrate prompts into email clients, automatically flagging emails that appear suspicious.

2. Real-Time Threat Updates

Short notifications about emerging cyber threats relevant to an executive’s role or industry.

• Example Nudge: “Recent attacks have targeted executives using fake meeting invitations. Be cautious with calendar requests from unknown senders.”
• Why It Matters: Many executives are unaware of evolving spear phishing and BEC tactics. Timely updates help them stay ahead of threats.
• Implementation Tip: Deliver alerts through dashboards, SMS, or security platforms that executives already use.

3. Secure Communication Nudges

Prompts encouraging the use of encrypted communication tools for sensitive discussions.

• Example Nudge: “This conversation includes confidential financial data. Use the approved encrypted messaging platform.”
• Why It Matters: Unsecured communication, like unencrypted emails or messaging apps, can be intercepted by cybercriminals, exposing financial data and confidential business discussions. Using encrypted communication tools protects sensitive information from leaks and unauthorized access.
• Implementation Tip: Embed nudges directly into email clients and collaboration tools to encourage compliance.

4. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Reminders

Prompts urging executives to enable or verify MFA on critical accounts.

• Example Nudge: “Your account is eligible for enhanced protection. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for added security.
• Why It Matters: MFA blocks 99.9% of account compromise attacks, yet many executives fail to activate it (Microsoft). Without MFA, cybercriminals can easily exploit stolen credentials through phishing, brute-force attacks, and credential stuffing, putting sensitive systems at risk.
• Implementation Tip: Use personalized MFA reminders highlighting the risks tied to executive accounts and ensure enforcement for high-risk systems.

5. Training and Awareness Nudges

Short reminders to complete security awareness training tailored for leadership.

• Example Nudge: “As a leader, your actions set the tone for security culture. Complete this 5-minute phishing awareness training today.”
• Why It Matters: Executives influence the security mindset of the entire organization. When they prioritize training, employees follow suit.
• Implementation Tip: Offer brief, flexible training modules that align with executive schedules.

To understand the broader impact of security culture at the executive level, read this Keepnet blog on Where Security Culture Stands for Executives.

6. Incident Reporting Prompts

Notifications reminding executives to report suspicious emails, calls, or activity immediately.

• Example Nudge: “Noticed anything unusual? Reporting a suspicious email helps protect the entire organization.”
• Why It Matters: Many executives hesitate to report cyber threats, fearing reputational damage. Normalizing incident reporting helps strengthen organizational security.
• Implementation Tip: Simplify reporting with one-click buttons in email clients and dedicated security hotlines.

These targeted security nudges ensure that executives stay alert to cyber threats while maintaining productivity.

Integrating Nudges into Leadership Workflows

For security nudges to be effective, they must seamlessly fit into executives' daily routines:

• Use Preferred Channels: Deliver nudges through familiar platforms like email, calendar systems, and executive dashboards to ensure engagement.
• Time Them Strategically: Send reminders at key decision points, such as before approving financial transactions or accessing sensitive data.
• Keep Them Concise: Executives have limited time—nudges should be short, clear, and action-oriented for maximum impact.

For a practical approach to implementing security nudges, explore this Keepnet guide on an Example Nudging Plan for Executive Roles.

Empowering Executives with Proactive Security Nudges

Executives are high-value targets for cyberattacks, but they also shape an organization's security culture. By implementing timely, role-specific security nudges, organizations can help leaders adopt secure behaviors and reduce cyber risks without disrupting their workflow.

To be effective, nudges must be discreet, actionable, and seamlessly integrated into executive routines. When security becomes a natural part of leadership decisions, it strengthens organizational resilience against cyber threats.

For a comprehensive approach to executive security awareness, check out Keepnet Security Awareness Training.