Understanding Phishing Test Controls

In 2024, 3 out of 5 individuals lost money to phishing. This alarming statistic highlights the urgency for organizations to reinforce their defenses against cyber threats. A well-structured phishing test control list is essential for training employees to recognize and respond to phishing attempts effectively.

By following the steps in this guide, you’ll enhance your organization’s cybersecurity posture and reduce the risk of successful phishing attacks.

Understanding Phishing Test Controls

Before we jump into the list, let’s cover why phishing tests are invaluable. Phishing tests are simulations that mimic real-world phishing attacks, allowing security teams to assess employee awareness and identify vulnerabilities. These tests reinforce Security Awareness Training and provide insights that help organizations fine-tune their security measures.

Here’s what you need to consider when designing and running effective phishing tests for your team.

Key Components of a Phishing Test Control List

1. Define Clear Objectives

Every phishing test should begin with clear objectives. Are you focusing on general phishing awareness or targeting specific threats like spear phishing? By setting focused goals, you can create realistic, relevant simulations that help employees prepare for actual attacks. Objectives will guide the scope and design of each test, making your phishing simulations more targeted and effective.

2. Choose the Right Tools

The tools you use directly impact the quality of your phishing tests. Select a platform that offers comprehensive features, like the Keepnet Human Risk Management Platform, which includes phishing simulators and training modules to help your team stay ahead of phishing tactics. A Phishing Simulator like this can mimic sophisticated phishing techniques and even help gauge how well your team responds under pressure.

3. Segment Your Audience

Phishing attacks often vary by employee role and access level. By segmenting your audience, you can tailor tests to simulate the types of phishing attempts specific groups might face. For example, executives may be more susceptible to vishing attacks (voice phishing) or spear-phishing, so you might design specific tests for these methods.

4. Create Realistic Scenarios

The success of your phishing test depends on how closely it mirrors real-world situations. Use pre-designed templates available through platforms like Security Awareness Training, and customize these templates to reflect scenarios your employees may encounter daily. Realistic testing helps employees recognize subtle phishing cues and strengthens their detection skills.

5. Monitor and Analyze Results

Tracking and analyzing results is essential to understanding your organization’s phishing risk profile. Tools like the Incident Responder provide valuable insights into employee responses, common mistakes, and areas that need improvement. Look for patterns in test outcomes to identify training gaps and adjust your content accordingly.

6. Communicate Results Honestly

Open communication about phishing test results can have a big impact. At my previous company, we ran a phishing test where a significant number of employees clicked on a simulated phishing link. Instead of placing blame, we presented the results transparently. This approach fostered a culture of openness and continuous improvement, encouraging employees to learn from the experience without feeling embarrassed.

7. Implement Consequential Feedback

Providing feedback that includes actionable next steps is critical for improvement. Consider referencing resources like the Data Breach Investigations Report to highlight common phishing tactics and teach employees how to respond effectively. Consequential feedback reinforces learning and strengthens organizational resilience.

8. Regularly Update Training

The phishing landscape changes rapidly, and so should your training materials. Consistently update content to cover emerging phishing tactics, such as quishing (phishing via QR codes) or smishing (SMS phishing). Keeping your Security Awareness Training up to date ensures employees are well-prepared to identify new types of threats.

9. Reinforce with Advanced Training

Consider adding more advanced training to improve your team’s ability to recognize sophisticated attacks. For example, you could use a quishing simulator or smishing simulator to test employee responses to more complex threats. The Keepnet Labs Quishing Simulator provides a specialized approach to tackle these emerging risks.

10. Encourage Reporting

A key component of a successful phishing defense is fostering a culture where employees feel comfortable reporting suspicious emails. Using tools like the Email Incident Responder, establish an incident response plan that empowers employees to report potential threats. This encourages vigilance and strengthens your defense system as employees become more proactive about identifying risks.

Conclusion

Integrating these phishing test controls into your cybersecurity strategy builds a more robust defense against phishing. By aligning your tests with clear objectives, using effective tools, and regularly updating your training, you’ll help employees become proactive defenders against phishing attacks. Remember, a strong phishing defense requires a strategic blend of testing, training, and real-world simulations—all tied into a comprehensive human risk management strategy.