From Reactive to Proactive Strategies

Since joining cybersecurity in 2021, the author has observed how technology-based solutions rapidly evolve to counter new threats. The industry demonstrates agility in responding to novel attacks and managing breaches with cutting-edge tools.

However, this technological adaptability contrasts sharply with how the industry handles human factors. While we excel in developing technological defenses, our approach to the human element is often reactive rather than proactive.

The core issue lies in social engineering training. Current efforts focus heavily on familiarizing people with technology, acronyms, and attack vectors. Yet this approach misses the fundamental challenge: the essence of social engineering lies in manipulation — convincing individuals to act against their best interests.

Consider an analogy: knowing various knife types doesn’t prepare you to defend against an actual knife attack. Similarly, learning about attack methods alone doesn’t equip people to resist manipulation during active social engineering attempts.

To address this gap, training strategies must evolve. Organizations should integrate psychology and social science insights into their human risk management programs. This means teaching not just what attackers do, but how they manipulate people psychologically.

The path forward requires blending technological defenses with understanding human psychology, empowering individuals to recognize and resist manipulation tactics.