The Impact of Human Error on Cybersecurity and How to Counteract It

In the digital age, where data breaches are frequent and often catastrophic, the role of human error in cybersecurity cannot be overlooked—especially in industries handling sensitive information, such as financial services and accounting. For small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), the stakes are particularly high.

A single mistake can lead to significant financial losses, erode customer trust, and attract regulatory penalties. As we delve deeper into this critical topic, the importance of understanding and mitigating human error becomes apparent, underscoring the need for stringent, proactive measures in safeguarding data.

While technology continues to evolve, bringing sophisticated solutions to counter cybersecurity threats, the human element remains a persistent vulnerability. Employees—whether through lack of awareness, insufficient training, or simple negligence—can unintentionally become the weakest link in the security chain.

Recognizing this, it’s crucial for SMBs to implement comprehensive strategies not only to educate their workforce but also to limit the potential for human error through robust cybersecurity frameworks.

Exploring the Role of Human Error in Cybersecurity Breaches

Though technology has become increasingly sophisticated, human error remains a significant vulnerability within the cybersecurity framework of many small and medium-sized businesses. In our experience, cybersecurity isn’t only challenged by complex hacking techniques but often falters at much simpler human mistakes.

These errors can range from mismanaged access privileges to poor password practices, all opening doors for cyber attackers. We’ve seen firsthand how a singular negligent action can unleash consequences that ripple through an entire organization, exposing sensitive data and jeopardizing client trust. By understanding that humans are often the weakest link in cybersecurity chains, businesses can begin tackling security comprehensively, ensuring that each layer of their defense does not overly rely on perfect human behavior.

Establishing ongoing training programs that encompass the latest in cybersecurity threats and prevention strategies is instrumental. We emphasize creating a culture where security is everyone’s responsibility, not just the IT department’s. Regularly updated training helps demystify complex security issues, making it easier for every team member to understand the impact of their actions and how best to uphold security protocols. This cultural shift doesn’t happen overnight. It requires commitment across all levels of an organization but ultimately helps reduce the incidence and impact of human errors in cybersecurity.

Common Types of Human Errors and Their Impact on Data Security

Human error in cybersecurity can manifest in various forms, commonly observed as shared passwords, misplaced devices, accidental deletions, or misconfigured settings. It’s essential to analyze these errors not as isolated incidents but as indicators of needed systemic improvements in an organization’s cybersecurity practices. Each type of error tells us something different about the vulnerabilities in a system and guides where to tighten protocols or enhance training.

1. Password Mismanagement: Often, employees use weak passwords or the same passwords across multiple platforms. This habit can turn a single compromised password into a gateway for wider network access.

2. Misdirected Emails: Sending sensitive information to the wrong recipient may seem like a minor slip, but it can lead to significant data breaches.

3. Unauthorized Information Sharing: Whether accidental or due to ignorance of policy, employees sometimes share confidential data improperly. This kind of spillage can be particularly damaging in sectors dealing with sensitive client data, like financial services.

4. Misconfigured Security Settings: Employees might disable security tools to increase convenience or wrongly configure settings, leaving systems vulnerable.

By understanding these common errors, we can craft targeted strategies to mitigate these risks, thereby enhancing the overall security posture of a firm. This approach involves not only training to improve individual behaviors but also implementing technological solutions that reduce the chances of these errors leading to significant breaches.

Best Practices for Minimizing Human Error in Cybersecurity

At our core, we are committed to promoting and implementing best practices that actively reduce human error within the cybersecurity frameworks of small and medium-sized businesses. Training is essential, but it’s only part of the solution. We extend our focus into integrating automated systems and employing advanced technologies that significantly decrease the likelihood of human error leading to security breaches.

Firstly, we advocate for the extensive use of automation wherever feasible. Automated security protocols handle repetitive tasks with precision, removing the risk of fatigue-related errors. From automatic backups and synchronized updates to advanced threat detection systems, these solutions ensure that critical protections are always operational and up-to-date.

Furthermore, role-based access control systems are especially effective in minimizing internal threats, ensuring that employees can only access essential data pertinent to their roles, thereby reducing the risk of accidental or unauthorized data exposure.

Next, periodic audits and real-time monitoring systems serve as overarching safety nets, ensuring no anomaly goes unnoticed. By continually scanning for irregularities, such as unusual access patterns or unapproved data sharing, these systems can flag issues before they escalate into serious threats. This proactive approach is invaluable in maintaining a secure data environment, essential for businesses handling sensitive financial information.

Implementing Zero Trust Principles to Mitigate Human-Related Risks

Embracing Zero Trust principles has become a cornerstone of our approach to cybersecurity, particularly effective in mitigating risks associated with human error. Zero Trust is grounded in the philosophy of “never trust, always verify,” a principle that aligns perfectly with today’s need for rigorous data protection in an environment where threats can arise from any vector.

Implementing Zero Trust involves a comprehensive shift in how security is structured: every access request, whether made by an insider or an outsider, must be fully authenticated, authorized, and encrypted before being granted. By reducing dependence on perimeter-based security models, which assume trust once inside the network, Zero Trust minimizes the impact of potentially compromised credentials or insider threats.

To operationalize Zero Trust, we focus on several key technologies and strategies. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is deployed across every access point to ensure that user credentials are not solely reliant on passwords. We also segment networks and enforce strict access controls and encryption to secure sensitive data in transit and at rest. Moreover, through continuous monitoring and behavioral analytics, we can detect and respond to irregular activities in real-time, ensuring rapid mitigation of any potential threats.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the complexities of cybersecurity, particularly in fields as sensitive as accounting and financial services, requires a vigilant, multi-faceted approach. Human errors, while a natural part of the human condition, can be significantly mitigated through well-thought-out strategies incorporating education, technology, and comprehensive security frameworks like Zero Trust.

By fostering a culture of continuous learning and adopting advanced security technologies, businesses can protect their valuable data from external threats and internal vulnerabilities.

At Phalanx, we understand that securing your business is about more than just defending against attacks. It’s about building a security-conscious culture where advanced technology and informed personnel work hand in hand to protect the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive information.

Let us help you strengthen your defenses and future-proof your business against the increasing digital age threats. Contact Phalanx today to learn more about how our cybersecurity solutions can provide the protection your business needs.

Scroll to Top

Perks

Tresorit

Tresorit is the gold standard for secure cloud storage and collaboration, offering end-to-end encryption to safeguard sensitive data. Trusted by 11,000+ organizations, it enables seamless, zero-knowledge file sharing, encrypted storage, eSign, and email encryption. With compliance-ready solutions for GDPR, HIPAA, and NIS2, Tresorit empowers businesses and individuals to stay in control of their data without compromising security or ease of use.

Perks

EasyDMARC

Simplify And Automate Your DMARC Journey.

Protect your company reputation, ensure compliance with industry regulations, and improve your domains’ performance with our time-saving, all-in-one DMARC service platform.

93% of all hacking attacks and data breaches involve email. The numbers are rising, and 500 million dollars every year are scammed by phishing attacks. Implement DMARC to secure your company!

Perks

RunPod

RunPod is a cloud platform that lets small teams deploy full-stack AI apps without managing infrastructure. With on-demand high-performance GPUs, users can easily launch, train, and optimize AI workloads at scale.

Perks

CarePatron

Carepatron is an all-in-one practice management platform designed to help health and wellness professionals streamline their workflows and deliver better care. With Carepatron, you can manage appointments with ease, conduct secure telehealth sessions, process online payments, create accurate client notes and records, and much more. Carepatron allows practitioners to save time, focus more on their patients, and deliver better outcomes … all while being HIPAA compliant.

Perks

IRSplus

Have you checked if you have unclaimed tax credits sitting with the IRS? A lot of small businesses do, and with the IRS moratorium on new ERC tax refund filings at an end, it might be worth it to try. IRSplus makes it easy to do a quick check.

Perks

MioCommerce

MioCommerce is the all-in-one solution to get customers, sell services instantly, manage your jobs, and boost engagement.Save 28% of your time when you automate your service business.

MioCommerce provides the Home & Commercial Service SME a 1-stop-shop to build and scale their own online and offline brand (E-Service Store), instantly acquire new customers both On & Off-line as well as simplify & automate their entire operations.

Perks

Design Pickle

Design Pickle is your go-to solution for on-demand graphic design. Whether you’re a business, agency, or individual, get unlimited design requests with fast turnarounds and no hidden fees. Skip the hassle of hiring freelancers or managing in-house teams. With Design Pickle, you get consistent, high-quality designs every time, supported by a dedicated team of experts who know your brand inside and out.

Perks

Lusha

Lusha empowers over 280,000 go-to-market teams with access to the most accurate and compliant global database of companies and decision-makers.

Powered by insights from 1.5M+ users, Lusha delivers tailored recommendations on who to connect with, when, and why—helping you focus on the right opportunities at the right time.

Whether you’re in sales, marketing, or recruitment, Lusha equips you with the insights and data to work smarter, connect faster, and achieve exceptional results.

Terms and conditions

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Perks

Taxfyle

Taxfyle simplifies tax filing by connecting clients with licensed Tax Pros for seamless, accurate, and affordable services. Whether handling personal or business taxes, our platform ensures convenience and quality, delivering results that meet your clients’ needs. By partnering with Taxfyle, you provide a trusted, scalable solution that enhances customer satisfaction and streamlines their tax experience.

Perks

Extensis

Extensis Connect manages fonts and other creative assets with intelligent font usage and license compliance reporting, so libraries stay in good graces and growing teams create more effectively.’,
‘With Connect + Insight, you can add Project Risk Scanning to your superpowers. Identify font usage risks within projects before they get to production, receive suggested steps for resolution, and fix files before they cause problems.

Perks

Warmy

Warmy.io addresses the issue of poor email deliverability by enhancing users’ sender reputation. This helps ensure that emails reach recipients’ inboxes rather than being marked as spam. Warmy.io benefits businesses in email marketing and outreach, with over 83% of B2B companies around the world using email for these purposes.

Perks

Hide My Name

HideMyName VPN has established itself as a trusted cybersecurity solution for users worldwide. The service combines a user-friendly interface with robust security features, ensuring a comfortable and secure browsing experience. With fast servers, reliable connections, and round-the-clock customer support, HideMyName VPN helps users maintain privacy and access geo-restricted content with confidence.

Perks

Looka

Looka is an AI-powered logo maker that gives business owners a quick and affordable way to create a beautiful brand. The platform takes a non-templated approach to logos to generate tons of unique options that you can customize in an easy-to-use editor. Answer a few questions about your business and design preferences, and you’ll immediately see a wide variety of logos to start saving and editing.

Perks

Getscreen.me

Getscreen.me is a cloud-based software providing a remote access via a browser. Connection is performed via a link without installing additional programs. The software has integrations with Telegram, Google Chrome, Jira Service Desk and via API.

The service is suitable for administration, technical support, as well as for remote connection to an office computer from home. Windows, macOS, Linux and Android versions are available.

Perks

MRPeasy.com

MRPeasy is a seriously powerful yet easy-to-use manufacturing software. It gives you everything you need to manage your manufacturing and distribution. Ideal for companies with 10 – 200 employees.

Everything you need to manage your manufacturing and distribution: Production planning, inventory & stock, sales & CRM, team, purchasing, and accounting.

Perks

Dext

Dext is the world leader in bookkeeping automation, empowering business owners to simplify accounting processes. Users can capture receipts, invoices, and financial records via mobile, email, and integrations with over 1,600 suppliers. Dext supports managing employee expense claims, automates workflows with recurring suppliers, and processes supplier statements seamlessly.

Terms and conditions

15% off first year (monthly or annual)

Perks

Gusto

Gusto makes it easy to pay your team, manage benefits, and protect your startup from day one. Run payroll as many times as you need to each month — we don’t charge extra. Your team gets paid in just a few clicks. Gusto supports over 9,000 plans by national carriers in all 50 states, plus D.C. Health benefits through Gusto include medical, dental, vision, HSA and FSA health plans, life and disability.

Perks

Apollo

Apollo.io provides sales and marketing teams with easy access to verified contact data for over 210 million B2B contacts, along with tools to engage and convert these contacts in one unified platform. By helping revenue professionals find the most accurate contact information and automating the outreach process, Apollo.io turns prospects into customers.

Terms and conditions

50% off Apollo’s annual Basic and Professional plans. This promotion is available to startups for their first year.

  • Valid for new customers only (with a corporate email*).*
  • 20 or fewer employees (the discount will apply for up to 5 seats*).*
  • 50% off of our Basic or Professional annual plans only.

Perks

Zonka

Zonka Feedback is a versatile survey software that empowers businesses to gather, measure, and act on customer feedback. With multi-channel surveys, real-time insights, and advanced analytics, it enhances customer experiences. The platform integrates seamlessly with tools like Zapier, HubSpot, and Salesforce, enabling data-driven decisions.

Perks

NordPass

NordPass is a password manager created by Nord Security, the cybersecurity brand behind NordVPN. Its intuitive interface makes it easy for anyone to securely generate, store, manage, and share passwords, passkeys, notes, and payment information—no tech skills required. With end-to-end encryption, zero-knowledge architecture, and 24/7 tech support, NordPass ensures privacy and security for your digital life.

Perks

Tax1099

Tax1099 is an IRS-authorized eFiling platform, trusted by over 500,000 businesses to simplify tax form filing. With Tax1099, users can electronically file 1099s, W-2s, ACA forms, and more. The platform automates key tasks like form completion, error checking, and real-time TIN matching, and integrates seamlessly with accounting software such as QuickBooks, Xero, and Bill.com.

Perks

ElectricAI

IT Management Software for SMBs

  • Gain single-point visibility into your device inventory, keeping you compliant
  • Get real-time, easy to understand (for non-IT folks), insights into the health of your devices and cyber security tips
  • Take action on your device security directly in platform and keep your device security up to date

Terms and conditions

Go to the link and add “Phalanx” as the Networking name in the partner box on Electric AI

Perks

Mercury

Mercury is the fintech ambitious companies use for banking* and all their financial workflows. With a powerful bank account at the center of their operations, companies can make better financial decisions and ensure every dollar spent aligns with company priorities. That’s why over 200K startups choose Mercury to confidently run all their financial operations with the precision, control, and focus they need to operate at their best.

*Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Column N.A., and Evolve Bank & Trust, Members FDIC.

Perks

ClickUp

With over 12M users and valued at $4B, ClickUp helps teams at companies like Netix, Spotify, and IBM manage everything from product development to marketing to sales. Recent updates include the introduction of Chat, Whiteboards 3.0, AI Knowledge Management and more coming in early 2025 — all in service of our goal of letting people do all their work in ClickUp, making them more productive and giving back at least 20% of their time to dedicate to other things.

Perks

Phalanx MUZE

Phalanx MUZE transforms the way you protect your business files by seamlessly encrypting data stored on desktops, Google Drive, OneDrive, and more. Whether your team works locally or in the cloud, MUZE ensures your files are secure, compliant, and easy to manage—without disrupting workflows. Designed for businesses looking to reduce risks from ransomware, insider threats, or accidental data leaks, MUZE delivers robust protection that integrates directly into your existing tools. Experience automated security tailored for modern work environments.

Terms and conditions

This promotion provides a 50% discount on the Phalanx MUZE subscription for the first two years. Offer valid only for new customers and cannot be combined with any other promotions or discounts. Discount applies to the base subscription fee only. After the two-year promotional period, the subscription renews at the standard rate unless canceled. Terms and conditions are subject to change.

Perks

Phalanx.io

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Terms and conditions

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Specifies total amount of data that can be shared per secure links.

Gives you direct access to support through phone or video calls, for immediate assistance.

Offers faster email support, ensuring your queries are prioritized.

Provides assistance and answers your questions via email.

Lets you brand the file send page with your company’s logo and colors, providing a professional and secure way to send files.

Extends protection to more complex or specialized document types, ensuring all your data is secure.

Ensures common types of office documents, like Word and Excel files, are protected and managed securely.

The ability to set when your links will expire.

Allows you to see a record of who’s looked at your link, what time they looked at it, and if they downloaded the file.

Number of File Receives

How many file links you can generate to send files.

Lets you safely preview PDF files without the need to download them, adding an extra layer of security.

Provides a secure way for people outside your company to send you files, ensuring they’re protected during transfer.

Allows you to share files securely through links, ensuring that only people with the link can access them with many ways to restrict access.