Cyberattacks don’t always start with advanced malware or network intrusions. More often, they begin with a simple message that doesn’t look out of the ordinary. Phishing was involved in 36% of data breaches in 2023, making it one of the most common entry points for attackers. While most businesses have basic defenses in place, stopping these threats takes more than just technology. It starts with training users to recognize a threat when they see it.
That was the challenge facing several of our partners. Their security tools were working, but users were still falling for convincing phishing emails. Without regular training or real-time feedback, even experienced employees were vulnerable. To reduce that risk, they partnered with ITonDemand to strengthen their defenses by starting where most threats begin: the inbox.
Why Phishing Still Works Against Businesses
Most companies already utilize tools such as firewalls and antivirus software. But phishing isn’t a system flaw. Instead, it’s a trick that targets people. These emails often appear as everyday messages, such as password resets, delivery updates, or notes from leadership. And with 55% of security leaders saying they’re not fully prepared for AI-driven threats, they’re becoming even more convincing. When something seems familiar, it’s easy for someone to click without thinking twice.
As a result, these attacks are common and often hard to recognize, with some employees receiving phishing emails every week. The more realistic they look, the more likely someone is to fall for them. Even when a business understands the risk, many don’t have a reliable way to train their teams. A short video during onboarding isn’t enough. Without regular practice or real examples, most people rely on guesswork.
IT teams can block known threats, but they can’t control what users do in the moment. And when someone makes a mistake, there’s usually no quick feedback to help them learn. That’s when minor errors turn into big problems. Without regular training and support, the risk stays in place, and so do the scams.
Turning Risk Into Readiness With Targeted Phishing Simulation
One-time security training doesn’t prepare users for the emails they’ll actually face. That’s why ITonDemand deploys phishing simulations that closely resemble real attacks. Powered by Huntress, these tests are sent regularly and mimic common scams. Some appear as delivery notices, password updates, or even messages that seem to come from within the company. Each one is designed to test instinct and reveal the warning signs users might miss.
If someone clicks, they’re immediately shown what they missed. Instead of quietly logging the mistake, the system responds in real time. It highlights the red flags and explains how the scam worked. Some users are directed to a 404 page to simulate a dead link, while others are presented with a brief training screen that guides them through the issue. That moment becomes a fast, relevant learning opportunity.
Training That Adjusts to Real Roles and Real Mistakes
Not all employees face the same types of phishing. Finance staff might see fake PayPal invoices. HR teams might get emails disguised as job applications. This training is tailored to job roles and department-level risks. It doesn’t send the same test to everyone. Instead, it reflects each user’s environment, which makes the lessons more relevant and easier to apply.
This approach is also continuous. It’s not limited to a yearly reminder or a single workshop. As users interact with different tests, they build awareness and confidence over time. Their instincts sharpen. For IT teams, the system provides detailed reports on how each group is responding. That insight helps leaders identify which tactics are effective and where additional support may be needed.
Progress Isn’t Always Linear, and That’s a Good Thing
Improvement doesn’t follow a straight path. Some phishing simulations are easy to spot. Others are more subtle on purpose. A sudden spike in clicks doesn’t mean the training failed. It means users were challenged by something new. If no one ever clicks, the simulations may not be realistic enough to prepare people for real threats.
Over time, patterns begin to show. Certain tactics may confuse one department but not another. The system adapts to these patterns, offering a mix of scenarios that remain relevant and continue to raise awareness. That creates a more resilient workforce. People become better prepared not just for common attacks but also for the unexpected ones that can do the most harm.
Why Simulated Training Is Better Than a Hands-off Approach
Most employees want to do the right thing, but that’s easier said than done due to human error. Phishing emails are designed to appear genuine, and it only takes one convincing message to deceive someone. Many companies still rely on yearly training videos or short lessons during onboarding. These methods might meet compliance requirements, but they don’t fully prepare users for real situations.
Simulated phishing takes a more practical approach. It provides users with a steady stream of real-world examples and immediate feedback when they make a mistake. This type of practice helps people develop better habits and recognize warning signs more quickly. Over time, employees become more confident and aware of their roles. That shift makes a big difference by helping build a stronger and safer workplace where everyone plays a part in reducing risk.
Building a Culture of Cybersecurity Awareness
Stopping phishing isn’t just about avoiding a single bad email; it takes a team effort. A strong security culture means everyone understands how their actions can help protect the organization. That kind of awareness doesn’t happen from one training session. Instead, it requires regular reminders, simple tools, and support from leadership to integrate cybersecurity into daily work.
However, not every phishing email is the same. Spear-phishing attacks are much more targeted and harder to catch. They account for less than 0.1% of phishing emails, yet they were responsible for up to 66% of all data breaches in 2022. These scams are targeted at specific individuals, often using personal details to appear more credible. That’s why awareness matters so much. When people know what to watch for and feel comfortable speaking up, companies as a whole are more likely to catch a threat before it spreads.
Phishing Training Today Builds a More Secure Tomorrow
Strong security doesn’t happen by accident. It begins with individuals who know what to look for and feel confident in taking the right action. Phishing training helps build those habits. The more users practice, the more they become familiar with the signs of a scam. Over time, that experience adds up and becomes a lasting part of how your team works.
ITonDemand helps organizations put that training in motion. With simulated phishing, real-time feedback, and reporting that highlights where support is needed, we make it easier to build that awareness. Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to improve an existing program, we’ll help your team stay sharp, stay informed, and stay ready.
