Simple Ways to Reduce Cyber Risk Across All Devices

28 October 2025

What if the weakest link in your company security isn't your network but one unsecured device? Every laptop, phone or tablet today is a door to cybercriminals. The good news? Those risks can be reduced without complex technology. Just smart, consistent habits. Simple things like strong passwords, updating your team and training them can block a lot of threats before they even start. In this post, we will walk you through practical, easy-to-implement measures to improve security on every device inside your business. You'll also learn how password management tools & IT security awareness training can make everyday users your first line of defence.

Why Device Security Matters

Products in your business, like laptops, smartphones and tablets, are easy targets for cyber attacks. Device security is critical with 90% of breaches attributed to human error and cybercrime costs reaching trillions of pounds every month. And simple habits aided by tools from a password management company can prevent costly incidents.

• Widespread Device Use: Remote/hybrid work involves multiple devices used by employees, creating more vulnerabilities.
• Common Threats: Phishing malware and ransomware mostly attack unsecured devices.
• Data Sensitivity: Devices often house customer data or intellectual property and are prime targets.
• Business Impact: A breach can knock out operations with 43% of small businesses facing downtime now and then. 
• Employee Role: Trained staff with secure habits reduce risks.

Knowing the risks helps build a solid foundation. It is important to enforce habits via IT security awareness training.

Strong Password Practices

Just how many seconds or minutes would it take to crack your password if a hacker broke yours?  Weak passwords are a top reason for breaches with 51% of common passwords cracked in under a minute by hackers. Teaming up with a password management company gives you unique, strong credentials across devices.

• Enforce Unique Passwords: Avoid reusing passwords, which is still done by 94% of users, making breaches easier.
• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Microsoft said MFA blocks 99 percent of account compromises.
• Regular Password Updates: Passwords should be rotated every 6-12 months or when you suspect a breach.
• Avoid Common Passwords: Never use password123 or other predictable answers.
• Centralised Management: A password management company gives IT teams full policy visibility.

Managing strong passwords locks attackers out. Pair this with training for compliance.

Regular Software Updates

Outdated software are a major vulnerability, with around 60% of breaches on unpatched systems. Regular updates on all devices plug any security holes and prevent threats from evolving.

• Enable Automatic Updates: Set devices to install operating system and app updates by default.
• Patch Promptly: Apply security patches 48 hours after release to minimise exposure.
• Monitor All Devices: Track update status using tools like Microsoft Intune.
• Include Third-Party Apps: Not just operating systems but also browsers, plugins and productivity tools.
• Schedule Maintenance: Plan monthly checks so no device is left behind.
• Educate Users: Teach employees not to delay updates because delays increase risks.

Regular updates keep devices safe. Combine with IT security awareness training for reinforcement of their importance.

Employee Training to Reduce Human Error

Most cyber incidents involve human error. Employees learn about threats and develop secure habits to protect devices from phishing and social engineering attacks.

• Phishing Awareness: Train staff on AI-generated phishing emails, which constitute 60% of attacks. 
• Safe Browsing Habits: Train employees to avoid suspicious links and untrusted sites.
• Device Security Rules: Lock devices when not in use and report lost devices immediately.
• Simulated Attacks: Make mock phishing tests.
• Ongoing Sessions: Plan and conduct quarterly IT security awareness training to address new threats.
• Tailored Content: Focus on high-risk roles such as finance or IT for tailored training.

Training makes employees a line of defence. Routine sessions build habits, for the whole workforce. 

Secure Network Habits

Unsecured networks expose devices to interceptions and attacks. Secure network practices protect data while it travels, especially for remote workers on public Wi-Fi or at home networks.

• Use VPNs: Encrypt connections to virtual private networks for remote access.
• Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Use unsecured networks sparingly unless protected by a VPN.
• Secure Home Routers: Change default router passwords & enable WPA3.
• Implement Firewalls: Block unauthorised access through device and network firewalls.
• Monitor Network Traffic: Watch for unusual activity that suggests a breach.
• Train on Network Safety: Network security should be included in IT security awareness training.

Secure networks remove device risks. A password management company offers tools to protect access credentials in addition to these habits.

Monitoring and Response

Active monitoring identifies threats early, and a well-planned response minimises damage. Regular oversight keeps devices secure & compliant.

• Real-Time Monitoring: Look for devices with anomalies using tools such as Microsoft Defender.
• Set Alerts: Configure notifications on suspicious login or malware detection.
• Conduct Audits: Check device security monthly for weaknesses.
• Develop Response Plans: Outline steps for handling breaches  including isolating devices.
• Use Password Tools: Password management company tracks credential leaks.
• Test Defences: Regular penetration testing offered by Renaissance simulates attacks to confirm security.

Monitoring and fast response limit the impact of attacks. Combine with training for a proactive approach. 

Building a Security Culture

• Lead by Example: Managers ought to model secure habits like using password managers.
• Reward Compliance: Honour employees who follow security protocols consistently.
• Integrate Training: Integrate IT security awareness training into onboarding & regular workflows.
• Communicate Policies: Clearly define device use and password management.
• Foster Reporting: Establish a place where suspicious activity can be reported safely.
• Regular Reviews: New threats require updating policies annually.

A healthy security culture lowers risk longer term. Those tools from a password management company help with that by simplifying compliance.

Renaissance: Your Ally in Device Security

From strong passwords and regular updates to IT security awareness education as well as secure networks, these fundamental steps could greatly scale back cyber threats. But real resilience goes beyond that. Here expert support, proactive monitoring & trusted password management solutions shine. 

For over 28 years Renaissance Computer Services has helped organisations turn everyday security habits into layers of protection. We'll show you how the right strategies and partnerships can keep your business safe from threats. Ready to make devices more secure & your team more confident? Contact our experts in your region to get started.