Cybersecurity is a field often associated with complex technology and large-scale strategies. Yet, prioritizing the “low-hanging fruit,” engaging employees through creative training, fostering a collaborative security culture, and making smart technology investments can significantly enhance your organization’s security posture. Ultimately, it all comes down to empowering the people who protect your data.

This article authored by Validic‘s CISO, David Hoover, reflects on how success often lies in addressing the smaller, foundational aspects of security.

Why the small things matter

Cybersecurity breaches rarely begin with highly sophisticated methods. Instead, bad actors often exploit simple oversights such as weak passwords, unpatched software, or unsuspecting employees clicking on phishing emails. These are the simple things — and they are also the vulnerabilities that companies can address most easily.

At Validic, we prioritize basic but crucial measures like local antivirus updates, regular software patching, and multi-factor authentication. These steps may seem mundane, but their impact is profound. For example, keeping software updated not only fixes known vulnerabilities but also signals to attackers that your organization is proactive about security.

By tackling these smaller issues head-on, you’re building a strong foundation that complements your broader security measures. The best part is that these actions often require minimal resources but deliver significant returns in protection.AI is a challenge and a tool in cybersecurity, changing how leaders protect their systems. With more focus on identity-based security and higher accountability at the top, leaders need to adapt quickly, stay strong, and build trust. This highlights the need for proactive strategies and new technologies to keep up with the constantly shifting landscape.

Making security training engaging (and unforgettable)

Security training is one of the most important — and, unfortunately, one of the most dreaded — parts of any organization’s cybersecurity efforts. Let’s face it, not everyone finds discussions about security protocols thrilling. The challenge lies in making the content memorable and engaging.

One of Validic’s most successful training campaigns featured employees’ pet photos. A snarling chihuahua, for instance, became the face of a reminder to “watch out for spam emails.” This quirky, relatable approach led to greater retention of security best practices and created a sense of community. Employees looked forward to the trainings, not just out of obligation but because they enjoyed participating.

To make security training more engaging and memorable, consider creative approaches like gamification—turning lessons into interactive challenges with rewards for participation. Use pop culture references from familiar franchises such as Star Wars or Friends to make concepts more relatable and incorporate storytelling by sharing real-world examples of cybersecurity wins and failures to highlight key takeaways.
When training isn’t just informative but also fun and interactive, it shifts the perception of security from annoying compliance to meaningful participation.

Building a collaborative security culture

For a long time, security teams have been perceived as the “department of no,” blocking projects and requests without explanation. This approach not only frustrates employees but also creates resistance to security protocols. Shifting this dynamic is essential to building a collaborative and effective security culture.

At Validic, we emphasize listening to employees when they make requests — whether it’s for new software tools, different workflows, or exceptions to certain policies. Instead of shutting them down immediately, we ask a simple but powerful question: “Why?”

This openness provides two key benefits: employees feel heard, and security teams can make more informed decisions to satisfy both security requirements and operational needs.

Balancing high-tech solutions with practicality

The cybersecurity marketplace constantly churns out advanced tools and technologies. It’s tempting to chase every shiny new solution, but organizations must assess whether these tools align with their broader goals and provide a strong return on investment.

At Validic, we tend to avoid single-use technologies. Instead, we favor tools that offer multiple functions, providing more flexibility and value. For instance:

• An integrated threat detection platform might cover endpoint security, email scanning, and cloud monitoring, eliminating the need for separate systems.
• A centralized patch management system can handle software updates across various departments, reducing manual effort.

Of course, there are exceptions. Specific compliance or operational needs might necessitate a niche solution. But generally, investing in versatile technologies not only simplifies security management but also ensures that updates and improvements benefit multiple areas simultaneously.

The human element in cybersecurity

All the encryption, firewalls, and multi-factor authentication in the world won’t protect your organization if employees don’t follow security best practices. Humans are the first line of defense — and, unfortunately, often the easiest target for attackers. This truth underscores why investing in your people yields the highest returns.

Your employees should be empowered to understand their role in protecting sensitive information like Protected Health Information (PHI) and Personally Identifiable Information (PII). When employees feel confident about security, it impacts interactions with clients, too.

The key is continuous education, clear communication, and fostering an environment where employees feel invested in your organization’s security goals.

How CISOs can empower their people with technology

• Audit basic vulnerabilities: Address outdated software, weak passwords, and overlooked security gaps.
• Revamp training programs: Use interactive and engaging formats to help employees internalize key concepts.
• Foster a collaborative culture: Shift from a restrictive approach to one that welcomes employee input and participation.
• Invest in flexible tech: Choose multifunctional tools that offer long-term value and adaptability.
• Empower your workforce: Keep security awareness fresh and continuous—your people are your strongest asset.

Cybersecurity isn’t just about preventing attacks — it’s about building a culture of shared responsibility. By focusing on fundamentals and small, strategic steps, organizations can create a resilient posture where every person contributes to lasting security success.

About David Hoover

David Hoover is a seasoned expert in IT security for 20 years, and performed several different roles for many types of organizations including state and federal government, educational universities, and privately held companies. David has extensive expertise in social engineering, vulnerability analysis, and endpoint security.

In his current role, David is responsible for developing and direction of data security and privacy, including establishing a data privacy and information security program for products, support, health software data development and other services within the company to achieve ISO/IEC 27001 and HITRUST certifications. David also leads HIPAA, CCPA, and GDPR compliance requirement initiatives.

About Validic

Validic Inc. is a digital health and intelligent digital care solutions company dedicated to improving the quality of human life by making personal data actionable. Through its technology and services platform, Validic delivers solutions to healthcare providers and organizations that improve operational efficiency and health outcomes.