Implementing Anti-Phishing Training Program
Overview
Security awareness training is the human layer of phishing defense. An effective anti-phishing training program combines regular simulations, interactive learning modules, metric tracking, and positive reinforcement to build a security-conscious culture. This skill covers designing, deploying, and measuring a comprehensive phishing awareness program using platforms like KnowBe4, Proofpoint Security Awareness, and open-source alternatives.
When to Use
- When deploying or configuring implementing anti phishing training program capabilities in your environment
- When establishing security controls aligned to compliance requirements
- When building or improving security architecture for this domain
- When conducting security assessments that require this implementation
Prerequisites
- Management buy-in and budget approval
- Security awareness training platform (KnowBe4, Proofpoint SAT, Cofense)
- Employee email list and organizational structure
- Baseline phishing susceptibility data (from initial simulation)
- Learning management system (LMS) integration capability
Key Concepts
Training Program Pillars
- Baseline Assessment: Initial phishing simulation to measure current susceptibility
- Interactive Training: Role-based modules covering phishing identification
- Regular Simulations: Monthly/quarterly phishing tests with progressive difficulty
- Just-in-Time Learning: Immediate training after a user fails a simulation
- Positive Reinforcement: Recognition for reporting phishing correctly
- Metrics & Reporting: Track improvement over time by department and role
SANS Security Awareness Maturity Model
- Level 1: Non-existent - No program
- Level 2: Compliance-focused - Annual checkbox training
- Level 3: Promoting Awareness - Engaging, regular content
- Level 4: Long-term Sustainment - Continuous program with culture change
- Level 5: Metrics Framework - Risk-based measurement and optimization
Workflow
Step 1: Establish Baseline
- Run initial phishing simulation across all departments
- Measure click rate, submit rate, and report rate
- Identify high-risk departments and roles
Step 2: Design Curriculum
- General awareness: Phishing identification basics for all employees
- Role-specific: Finance (BEC/wire fraud), IT (credential phishing), Executives (whaling)
- Progressive difficulty: Beginner, intermediate, advanced modules
- Micro-learning: Short (3-5 minute) frequent sessions vs. annual marathon
Step 3: Deploy Training Platform
- Configure KnowBe4/Proofpoint SAT with organizational groups
- Set up automated enrollment workflows
- Integrate with LMS for completion tracking
- Configure reporting dashboards
Step 4: Run Continuous Simulations
- Monthly simulations with varied scenarios
- Increase difficulty based on organizational performance
- Include diverse attack types: links, attachments, QR codes, BEC
Step 5: Measure and Optimize
Use scripts/process.py to analyze training completion, simulation results, and program effectiveness over time.
Tools & Resources
Validation
- 90%+ training completion rate across organization
- Measurable reduction in phishing click rate over 6 months
- Increase in user phishing report rate
- Department-level improvement tracking
