Exploring the Effectiveness of Cybersecurity Training Programs: Factors, Best Practices, and Future Directions

Abstract

Cybersecurity education is essential in equipping individuals with the proper knowledge and skill sets to protect devices, computers, networks and data from cybersecurity risk. This research examines past research in cybersecurity education and training, evaluates the existing literature on Cybersecurity risk to identify research gaps and suggests the future direction of the research phenomenon. The paper evaluates the mechanics that influence the effectiveness of cybersecurity training programs. The paper also presents best practices and success factors for developing cybersecurity training programs. The research presents the benefits of cybersecurity training and awareness program underpinned around addressing human vulnerability to promote a better and positive cybersecurity awareness culture within organisations. It also highlights the need for a company to adhere to legal and regulatory requirements, which is essential in mitigating cybersecurity risk. The findings of this work propose a model for examining the relationship between cybersecurity training and user behaviour; this is made up of the input, process and output components, which are presented with a model to show the connection of the three elements. Key words: Cybersecurity awareness, Training effectiveness, Human factor, Organisational support, Evaluation methodologies, Security culture, User behaviour Proceedings Citation Format Sadiq Nasir (2023): Exploring the Effectiveness of Cybersecurity Training Programs: Factors, Best Practices, and Future Directions. Proceedings of the Cyber Secure Nigeria Conference. Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) Abuja, Nigeria. 11-12th July, 2023. Pp 151-160. https://cybersecurenigeria.org/conference-proceedings/volume-2-2023/. dx.doi.org/10.22624/AIMS/CSEAN-SMART2023P18