New Member of Staff… New Security Risk?

When you hire someone new, the excitement of adding fresh talent to your team often takes center stage. You’re focused on getting them set up with the right equipment, providing access to essential systems, and making sure they feel welcome. But amid the hustle of onboarding, there’s a hidden threat that often goes unnoticed—a new security risk that could put your business in jeopardy.

The Hidden Cybersecurity Threat of New Hires

It’s natural to assume your biggest cybersecurity threats come from external attacks or sophisticated malware. However, research shows that new employees pose a significant vulnerability—often unintentionally. A recent study revealed that 71% of new hires fall for phishing or social engineering attacks within their first 90 days on the job.

That’s not because they’re careless. It’s because they’re new. Starting a new role is stressful and filled with uncertainty. New hires are trying to make a strong impression, follow instructions, and adapt quickly to new systems and processes. Cybercriminals know this—and they exploit it.

Why Cybercriminals Target New Employees

Imagine this: your new employee receives an email that looks like it’s from HR, asking them to update their personal details on a company portal. Or maybe it appears to come from a senior executive requesting an urgent payment approval. To a seasoned staff member, these might raise red flags. But for a newcomer, they seem legitimate.

These social engineering attacks are designed to manipulate human behavior, and new employees are especially susceptible. Studies show that new team members are 44% more likely to click on malicious links and 45% more likely to fall for impersonation scams than longer-tenured colleagues.

This creates a window of opportunity that cybercriminals are quick to exploit. The onboarding period—meant to be a time of learning and adjustment—can easily become a hacker’s playground if not managed properly.

How to Reduce the Risk During Onboarding

The first step in mitigating this new security risk is acknowledging it. Many organizations delay cybersecurity training until new hires have settled in, but that’s a mistake. Those first few weeks are when your newest team members need it most.

1. Start Cybersecurity Training from Day OneIncorporate security awareness into your onboarding process. Teach new hires how to identify phishing emails, suspicious links, and fraudulent requests. Make sure they know who to contact if they receive something questionable. A brief, engaging session on cybersecurity basics can go a long way toward preventing early mistakes.

2. Run Realistic SimulationsPractical, hands-on simulations—like mock phishing attempts—help employees learn how to respond in real-world situations. According to research, companies that implement tailored cybersecurity training and simulations during onboarding reduce phishing risk by up to 30%.

3. Encourage a Culture of CommunicationNew employees may hesitate to ask questions for fear of seeming inexperienced. Foster an environment where it’s safe to speak up. Encourage them to double-check suspicious messages or confirm unusual requests with IT or leadership.

4. Use Layered Security ToolsWhile employee training is crucial, technology still plays a vital role. Implement strong access controls, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and email filtering tools to add extra protection. Think of these as safety nets supporting your human defenses.

Beyond Tools: Building a Security-First Mindset

No matter how advanced your cybersecurity software may be, it can’t fully protect your organization if your people aren’t equipped to recognize threats. Human error remains the leading cause of data breaches, and without consistent awareness, even the best technology can be undermined.

That’s why creating a security-first culture matters. When employees—new or experienced—understand that cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility, the risk of a breach drops dramatically. Regular refresher sessions, simulated attacks, and open dialogue about security concerns all contribute to this culture of vigilance.

Protect Your Business from the Next New Security Risk

Your newest team members should be your company’s future, not its biggest vulnerability. By prioritizing cybersecurity education and proactive prevention during onboarding, you can transform this new security risk into a strength.

If you’re unsure where to start, Elite Technology Solutions Group can help. Our team specializes in helping businesses identify and address cybersecurity weaknesses—before they become costly problems.

Don’t wait until after an incident to take action.Contact Elite Technology Solutions Group today to schedule your cybersecurity prevention evaluation and ensure your business is protected from every angle, right from day one.