SANS Assessment of Student Learning Plan (ASLP) Security Awareness Training

What is a primary goal of security awareness training?

1. To teach technical skills for IT departments

2. To promote awareness of security threats and safe practices

3. To ensure compliance with all legal standards

4. To reduce the use of technology in the workplace

The correct answer is: To promote awareness of security threats and safe practices

A primary goal of security awareness training is to promote awareness of security threats and safe practices. This training is designed to empower employees with knowledge about the various types of security risks they may encounter in their day-to-day work, such as phishing attacks, social engineering tactics, and proper data handling procedures. By understanding these threats, employees can take proactive steps to protect themselves and the organization, thereby fostering a culture of security within the workplace. Enhancing awareness is crucial, as many security incidents can be traced back to human error or negligence. When employees are knowledgeable about potential threats and the best practices to mitigate them, they become an integral line of defense against security breaches. This proactive approach not only reduces the risk of incidents but also helps in creating a more informed workforce that can respond effectively to security issues. In contrast, while legal compliance is important, the primary focus of security awareness training is centered on understanding threats rather than merely fulfilling legal obligations. Additionally, teaching technical skills is typically reserved for IT departments, and reducing technology usage is contrary to the goals of modern business operations that often rely heavily on technology for efficiency and communication.