How does Gamified Training Impact Cyber Security Behavior and Culture?

Since the early 2000s, organizations understood the need to train non-technical staff to handle the risks associated with new technologies. Since then, the attack surface has expanded exponentially, necessitating consistent improvement in training methods.

So, what is the next evolution in security awareness training (SAT)? Gamification.

What is Gamified Cyber Security Training?

The human attention span is now lower than ever. This completely transforms how we retain information and change our behaviors. Training and learning methods that have worked in the past are no longer as effective, forcing organizations to rethink their SAT approach.

Enter gamification.

Gamification is the next evolution in cyber security training, leveraging interactive and engaging elements to improve learning by making it fun and memorable.

Gamification elements include scoring points, earning badges, and ranking on leaderboards to foster a competitive spirit and a feeling of accomplishment, tapping into fundamental psychological motivators that drive human engagement.

While gamified training is a relatively new concept in the context of cyber security, Security Quotient firmly believes that it has the potential to significantly enhance user engagement, retention of information, and, ultimately, the effectiveness of security awareness programs.

Perhaps the best example of how gamification can accelerate learning is the popular language-learning app Duolingo, which uses elements like points, badges, and in-app rewards to keep users engaged and motivated. The app has helped thousands improve their language skills and consistently ranks as the most effective in its category.

How Does Gamification in Cyber Security Motivate the Workforce?

One of the main benefits of gamification is its ability to motivate the workforce. And this motivation doesn’t originate from fear of a potentially devastating cyberattack. Instead, it’s grounded in friendly competition elements such as leaderboards and achievement badges.

Let’s face it, no matter how serious cyber threats are nowadays, the average employee will rarely think about them on a daily basis or prioritize cyber security practices without a direct incentive. Gamification introduces an engaging way to keep these important issues top of mind, encouraging proactive behavior through a more relatable and interactive approach.

How to Create a Gamified Cyber Security Training Program?

1. Define your objectives

Identify the specific cyber security topics and abilities you aim to teach using gamification training. You might already possess informal insights into which threats and vulnerabilities require emphasis. If not, consider conducting an assessment or survey to reveal deficiencies in employee cyber security awareness, skills, and perceptions.

2. Select the right gamification elements

Commonly used elements include:

• Points: Award points for completing tasks or challenges.
• Badges: Provide badges for specific achievements.
• Leaderboards: Use leaderboards to foster healthy competition.
• Levels: Design levels that learners can progress through as they master content.
• Challenges: Incorporate challenges or missions to complete.
• Feedback: Offer immediate feedback through scores, progress bars, or other indicators.

3. Design engaging content

If you work in technology, you might find it interesting to learn about all the different ways cybercriminals operate. However, the average employee may not find it as amusing. Thus, it’s important to create engaging content containing various scenarios and challenges that align with the training objectives. Another way to maximize engagement is to diversify the training depending on the job role, or even industry or region.

4. Integrate social elements

Humans are social creatures. Even if we’re doing analytical tasks like learning about cyber security, we’d enjoy engaging with others in some way. After all, the social aspect is why many people consider college the best years of their life. These social elements could encourage friendly competition, such as leaderboards or collaborative challenges, where participants work together in teams to solve problems or complete tasks.

5. Test and improve

Before releasing the training program to a larger audience, it’s best to pilot the training to a smaller group and gather valuable feedback. Gather several employees from various departments and seniority levels to get diverse perspectives. Use this feedback to make necessary adjustments before rolling out the program throughout the organization. Once the program is implemented, provide ongoing support for participants, ensuring they have the information and resources needed to make it a success.

Enhancing Cyber Security Training Impact with Gamification

While traditional training lays the foundation, it often struggles to engage participants or drive lasting cyber security behavior change. Gamification, rooted in behavioral psychology and game design, leverages our innate love for play and intrinsic motivations, transforming learning into an engaging and effective process.

Yet, gamification isn’t a universal fix; it demands meticulous planning, customization, and continuous adjustment to truly connect with varied audiences and keep pace with cyber security’s dynamic nature. The key lies in balancing enjoyment with educational value, ensuring the training not only captivates but also comprehensively prepares individuals to face security challenges confidently.