Cybersecurity Awareness Course: Managing Leavers and Movers
In any organisation, effective user access management is a cornerstone of cybersecurity. This course emphasises the importance of following robust procedures to promptly manage employee access, especially when employees leave or transition to new roles within the company.
Key Topics Covered
- Timely Removal of Leavers
When employees leave a company, retaining their access to systems poses significant risks. Former employees with access can:- Steal sensitive data, trade secrets, or intellectual property.
- Maliciously alter or delete critical information.
- Become unwitting vulnerabilities if their accounts are hijacked by cybercriminals.
This module explains how promptly deactivating accounts ensures that only current, trusted employees have access to company resources, maintaining a secure environment.
- Adjusting Access for Movers
Employees often change roles, departments, or responsibilities within a company. When access rights aren’t updated promptly, risks arise:- Excessive Permissions: Employees may retain access to data or systems they no longer need, increasing the risk of accidental or intentional misuse.
- Data Breaches: Unauthorized access can lead to confidential information being exposed to those without a business need to know.
- Compliance Violations: Not adhering to access control policies can result in regulatory breaches, fines, and reputational damage.
This section highlights the importance of aligning access with job responsibilities, minimizing risks, and maintaining operational efficiency.
- The Dangers of Inaction
Failing to manage access effectively can lead to:- Insider Threats: Disgruntled former employees or those with outdated permissions may intentionally harm the company.
- Cyberattacks: Dormant accounts or excessive permissions are prime targets for hackers looking to exploit vulnerabilities.
- Operational Chaos: Unregulated access creates confusion and makes audits and compliance more challenging.
Why It Matters
Access management isn’t just an IT responsibility—it’s a business-critical process that protects the organization’s assets and reputation. Timely updates to user permissions reduce risks, ensure compliance, and foster trust in a secure workplace.
What’s Next?
Learn how to recognize gaps in access management procedures, take ownership of securing sensitive systems, and collaborate with relevant teams to address risks. This course includes practical steps and tools to ensure proper user management, empowering you to contribute to a secure and efficient organization.
Take the first step toward a safer workplace by completing the course today!
