Why phishing simulations and red-teaming are necessary

Running a simulated phishing campaign is a crucial step for corporate cyber security, but it is often not enough to get a complete picture of the security situation. An additional campaign in which a Red Team actively tests usernames and passwords is therefore essential. In this article, we discuss why this combination of measures is crucial for a robust cybersecurity strategy.

Increased realism

Simulated phishing campaigns or red-teaming test employees' awareness and reaction to suspicious emails. However, they do not reflect the full range of real-world attack scenarios. Red team exercises that actively test user accounts and passwords provide a more realistic assessment of potential threats. They give companies a deeper insight into how effectively their systems and processes are equipped against serious cyber attacks.

Identification of weak points

Phishing campaigns aim to raise awareness of fraud attempts. A Red Team, on the other hand, uncovers technical and process-related weaknesses. By testing the strength of passwords, the effectiveness of access controls and susceptibility to brute force attacks, vulnerabilities that go beyond human error can be identified.

Training and awareness

The combination of both campaigns creates comprehensive security awareness. Employees who are aware of the dangers of phishing also understand the importance of secure passwords and usernames through the Red Team exercises. This promotes a culture of security where employees are encouraged to adopt secure practices.

Compliance and best practices

Many industry standards and compliance regulations require regular security testing. Through phishing simulations and red team testing, organizations demonstrate that they are proactively and comprehensively responding to security threats. This is essential for regulatory compliance and a sign of cybersecurity best practices.

Continuous improvement

Regular phishing simulations and red team tests allow security measures to be continuously evaluated and improved. Phishing campaigns raise employees' security awareness, while red team exercises uncover technical security gaps. This holistic approach ensures that vulnerabilities are effectively addressed on a human and technical level.

Conclusion

Combining simulated phishing campaigns with red team testing to verify usernames and passwords is an essential part of a modern cyber security strategy. This strategy not only provides a more realistic assessment of the security situation, but also uncovers a wider range of vulnerabilities and promotes a comprehensive security culture within the organization. For anyone who takes the security of their data and systems seriously, both measures are essential.

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