Cybersecurity – The weakest link is you

You can have all the technology in place… but if employees click on phishing links, use weak passwords or accidentally share sensitive information, then humans are the weakest link in the security chain.
In the Netherlands, we see that over 80% of data breaches are caused by human activity (source: AP). For SMEs, this can lead to reputational damage, fines under the AVG and loss of customer trust.

Cybersecurity is therefore not just about firewalls and antivirus software, but also awareness, training and policies. In this blog you will read:

Why human error is such a big risk
How to make employees more structurally resilient
What approach ALTA-ICT takes with ISO27001 and NEN7510 certification

Modern Workplace – Affordable, Safe & Smart

What is user awareness in cybersecurity?

Definition: employee awareness of digital risks.
Dutch context: AVG compliance, mandatory data breach notification, sector rules (healthcare, finance).
Importance: phishing, social engineering, password management are biggest threats.
Misconception: “one training is enough” – in reality, this requires repetition and smart tools.
ALTA-ICT perspective: security begins and ends with people, supported by policy and technology.

How do you implement cybersecurity awareness in the Netherlands?

Step 1: Analysis & policy

Quick scan of current risks and compliance gaps.
AVG check and sector-specific requirements (NEN7510, BIO).

Step 2: Training & culture

Interactive training in Dutch.
Phishing simulations and gamified learning.

Step 3: Technical support

MFA, password managers, smart monitoring.
Integration with Microsoft 365 Security.

Step 4: Continuous improvement

Periodic refresh trainings.
KPIs such as click-rate phishing tests.

Common mistakes in cybersecurity

One-time training without repetition.
No incident reporting culture.
Overly complex policies without practical tools.
Overestimating technical solutions.
No monitoring of behavioral outcomes.

ALTA-ICT prevents this by:

Establish structural policies
Training & tools cleverly combined
Monitor and adjust results

ROI of awareness training for SMEs

Average cost of data breach NL: €88,000 per incident (IBM).
Awareness training lowers risk of incidents by up to 70%.
Case: Dutch SME (anonymous): phishing click rate from 38% → 6% in 6 months.
TCO: Investment < fines + loss of reputation.

ALTA-ICT approach

At ALTA-ICT, we believe that people and technology together form the strongest chain. Therefore we combine:
✅ ISO27001 and NEN7510 certified processes
✅ Trainings and simulations in Dutch context
✅ 24/7 monitoring from our Security Operations Center
✅ Personal guidance for MKB and C-level

FAQ

Is awareness training mandatory under the AVG?
How often should I repeat workouts?
What does a phishing simulation cost?
Does this also work with small teams (<25 FTE)?
How do I measure training success?

Conclusion

The weakest link? All of us. But with the right approach, you can turn that vulnerability into strength. ALTA-ICT helps Dutch companies structurally improve cybersecurity – from policy to training and monitoring.

👉 Book a free cybersecurity consultation now and find out where your organization can improve today.