Human error is one of the main causes of failures in companies of all sizes. It doesn't matter whether we're talking about a small business, a bank, or a large factory: behind every process there are always people. And while that brings creativity and flexibility, it also opens the door to inevitable mistakes.
At TecnetOne, we know that understanding and reducing these errors is key to improving both security and efficiency. And in the realm of cybersecurity, this becomes even more critical: the World Economic Forum warns that up to 95% of security incidents originate from human error. We're not talking about sophisticated attacks, but rather common oversights like clicking on a malicious link or using weak passwords.
Now that October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how the human factor continues to be the weakest link—and what steps organizations can take to strengthen it.
Understanding Human Error in Cybersecurity
When we talk about human error in cybersecurity, it’s not just about being “careless.” In fact, specialists usually divide these errors into two main categories: skill-based errors and knowledge-based errors.
1. Skill-Based Errors
These are typical mistakes that happen during routine tasks, when we’re on autopilot or distracted. We know what to do and how to do it, but we simply forget.
A clear example: you forget to back up your computer. You've done it a thousand times before, you know the procedure perfectly, but that day you were in a rush to leave or overwhelmed with emails. The result? If a cyberattack occurs, you’ll have no backup and be much more vulnerable to data loss.
2. Knowledge-Based Errors
In this case, the issue isn't distraction, but a lack of information or experience. These mistakes are more common among people who haven't received adequate training in digital security or who don’t follow established protocols.
A typical example: you click on a suspicious link in an email from an unknown sender because you don’t know how to recognize phishing. That seemingly harmless action can install malware on your device, compromise your money, and even expose sensitive company data.
The 9 Most Common Human Errors in Cybersecurity
When we think of cybersecurity, we usually picture firewalls, antivirus software, or advanced protection systems. But the reality is that, in most cases, incidents don’t begin with a super-sophisticated hacker—they start with human carelessness. Yes, a simple mistake can open the door to a cyberattack.
Here are the nine most common human errors in cybersecurity that every company should know (and avoid):
1. Weak Passwords
Using simple passwords like “123456” or reusing the same password everywhere remains one of the most frequent mistakes. Sharing them via email or writing them on a sticky note doesn’t help either. A slip like this can compromise critical accounts and entire systems.
2. Installing Unauthorized Software
That “harmless” program someone downloads without informing IT could be the perfect Trojan horse. Shadow IT introduces serious vulnerabilities and puts the entire organization’s security at risk.
3. Forgetting to Install Updates
Failing to apply patches or updates leaves systems exposed to known flaws that cybercriminals are ready to exploit. It’s like leaving your front door wide open in a sketchy neighborhood.
4. Sending Sensitive Information to the Wrong Recipient
An email containing confidential data sent to the wrong inbox can result in a costly data leak. It might seem like a minor mistake, but it can cause a serious security breach.
5. Falling for Phishing Attacks
Phishing remains the most common and effective tactic. Emails, SMS, or WhatsApp messages that look legit but are actually traps. One click on a fake link or entering credentials on a fraudulent site is all it takes for an attacker to gain unauthorized access.
6. Failing to Detect Social Engineering
Attackers no longer rely solely on technology—they manipulate emotions too. By exploiting trust, fear, or urgency, they get victims to share information or take actions that compromise security. This is where social engineering comes into play.
7. Using Unauthorized Devices
Plugging in an unknown USB drive or connecting a personal device to the company network can introduce malware or create a direct entry point for attackers.
8. Misconfigured Security Settings
A poorly configured firewall or incorrect permission settings can become open vulnerabilities. The worst part? They often go unnoticed until an incident occurs.
9. Neglecting Physical Security
Cybersecurity isn’t always digital. Leaving a laptop unattended, losing a corporate phone, or throwing out documents without properly destroying them can also lead to unauthorized access.
Read more: How to build a culture of cybersecurity in your company?
Cybersecurity: How to Reduce Human Error
When we talk about cybersecurity, we often think of firewalls, antivirus software, or artificial intelligence. But the truth is, the greatest risk usually lies in something much simpler: human error. From a weak password to clicking on a phishing link, a single mistake can open the door to an attack.
At TecnetOne, we understand that the human factor is often the weakest link in cybersecurity. That’s why we’re sharing some of the best proven practices to help minimize risks and better protect your organization:
1. Build a Security-First Culture: Security should be part of everyday operations. This means setting clear policies, providing continuous training, and most importantly, creating awareness that every employee is part of the first line of defense.
2. Strong Passwords and MFA: Forget “123456.” It’s crucial to enforce strong password policies and support them with multi-factor authentication (MFA), so a single leaked password doesn’t lead to disaster.
3. Clear Policies and Procedures: Rules should be written down and easy to follow. Well-defined protocols reduce improvisation—and therefore, errors.
4. Strict Access Controls: Grant each person only the permissions they need for their role (principle of least privilege), and review those access rights regularly to avoid unnecessary risks.
5. Timely Updates and Patches: Keeping software, systems, and apps up to date closes the door to known vulnerabilities that attackers love to exploit.
6. Endpoint Protection: Security solutions that monitor devices and block malware attempts are essential to stopping attacks before they spread.
7. Good Digital Hygiene: Reviewing security settings, removing unnecessary access, and keeping systems organized is just as important as installing antivirus software.
8. Physical Security Matters: Not everything happens in the cloud—protecting servers, offices, and physical devices is also a key part of cybersecurity.
9. Teamwork with IT and Security: Cross-department collaboration strengthens a shared responsibility culture and ensures everyone is aligned toward the same goal: protecting information.
10. Incident Response Plan: Mistakes happen, which is why having a tested response plan is vital for reacting quickly and minimizing damage in the event of an attack.
If companies implement these measures, they can significantly reduce human error and strengthen their cybersecurity posture. In the end, the key lies in educating, preventing, and always staying prepared.
