Why Your New Starters Could Be Your Biggest Cyber Security Risk

When you bring someone new into your business, your main priority is usually making sure they’re set up and ready to work. A laptop, an email account, the right system access, and an introduction to the team often top the checklist.

But what many Nottingham businesses overlook is that the onboarding stage is one of the riskiest times for cyber security.

Recent research reveals that 71% of new hires fall victim to phishing or social engineering attacks within their first 90 days. That’s nearly three out of four new employees – and it’s fast becoming a common entry point for cyber criminals.

Why New Employees Are Targeted

Starting a new job is overwhelming. New employees are eager to prove themselves but unfamiliar with internal processes and communication norms. This makes them prime targets for criminals, who exploit uncertainty with emails or messages designed to look like they come from HR, IT support, or even senior management.

These scams may involve:

• Fake HR portals asking for login details

• Fraudulent invoices disguised as urgent requests

• Impersonation of managers requesting sensitive information

Because new hires haven’t yet learned what “normal” looks like in your company, they are 44% more likely to click on phishing attempts compared to established colleagues. Data also shows they are 45% more likely to fall for an attack when the scammer poses as a company executive. For Nottingham businesses, this means the very moment your workforce is growing could also be when your systems are most exposed.

IT Support that Strengthens Your First Line of Defence

The best way to reduce this risk is with proactive IT support and cyber security strategies that start from day one. At Connected Systems, we help businesses in Nottingham take a smarter approach to protecting new employees – before attackers can exploit them.

Effective defences include:

• Cyber security awareness training for all new starters during onboarding

• Phishing simulations to help staff identify real-world threats

• Managed IT support that ensures your systems, permissions, and access controls are configured securely

  
  

Robust security tools such as monitored firewalls, endpoint protection, and email filtering

Businesses that put these measures in place see measurable results. Studies have shown phishing risks can drop by 30% when companies provide tailored cyber security training during onboarding.

Take Control of Your Business Security

Firewalls, anti-virus, and monitoring tools are essential – but people are your first line of defence. With the right IT support partner by your side, even your newest employees can become a strength rather than a weakness.

If you run a Nottingham business and want to keep your systems secure while empowering your staff, Connected Systems is here to help. From secure onboarding processes to ongoing IT support, we’ll ensure your business is protected at every step.

Contact our team today to find out how we can strengthen your business security and safeguard your growth.