Considering how quickly cyber technology has advanced, one would think that we could soon be fighting virtual wars! Actually, we aren’t too far off in that assumption. Between September 2014 to June 2015, our military repelled more than 30 million known malicious attacks on its networks.
This success is due to the concept of a High-Reliability Organization (HRO), or any organization in which a single error can create catastrophe. The nuclear navy is one such organization, and many of their security procedures have actually been adapted by the US Cyber Command. Likewise, you can utilize these same concepts in your own office, to promote the highest level of network security possible.
When you train your employees on network security protocol, keep in mind that you can adapt these concepts to your own work environment.
Knowledge. Nuclear navy operators endure rigorous training, and are closely supervised until they reach proficiency, before they are trusted with a propulsion plant. Even after all of that, periodic monitoring, drills, testing, and additional training keep them on their toes. The idea is that when people thoroughly understand all parts of a system, they are better prepared to recognize when something goes wrong and handle the situation effectively. When you train your employees on network security protocol, make sure to impart a thorough understanding of how your system works.
Integrity. From day one, the nuclear navy are taught that there is no room for error. Every anomaly is reported, and commanding officers are held accountable for everything that happens on their watch. This high level of integrity discourages deliberate departures from protocol, and encourages communication and quick attention to any problems. You can utilize this concept by demonstrating to your employees the exact amount of harm that could result from security errors. They need to understand the importance of your security measures.
Procedure. The nuclear navy utilizes an extensive system of inspections, including written tests, observations,and drills. Officers might also walk aboard a ship any time it is in port, without any advance notice. If your employees know that you will be checking up on them, they are more likely to follow procedure.
Communication. Operators aboard nuclear vessels are required to communicate in a deliberately prescribed manner. While such an approach might feel overly formal to you, employees need to know what problems you expect them to report, and how you want them reported.
Instinct. Those who work in high-risk military occupations are trained to listen to their instincts. If something feels “off”, they investigate it. Let your employees know that it’s okay – even desirable – to report anything suspicious to you. With security mistakes often costing businesses thousands, you can never be too careful with your network.
A single error in your network security protocol might not result in a nuclear catastrophe, but it can definitely feel like a disaster as you deal with the resulting consequences. Give us a call at 888-RING-MY-TECH, and we can help you develop a network security system to keep all of your sensitive data safe.
