15 Cybersecurity Mistakes Even Experts Still Make

In the constantly evolving world of cybersecurity, even seasoned professionals aren’t immune to making mistakes. From overconfidence to simple oversight, the digital landscape is riddled with pitfalls — and some of the most common ones continue to trip up even the best in the field.

Here are 15 cybersecurity mistakes that even the experts still make — and what we can all learn from them.

1. Reusing Passwords Across Systems

Even IT professionals fall into the trap of using the same (or similar) passwords across multiple accounts. It’s convenient — but it’s also risky. A single breach can lead to multiple compromised systems.

Fix: Use a password manager and ensure every password is unique and strong.

2. Delaying Critical Updates

Sometimes updates are delayed because they interrupt workflow or require testing in enterprise environments. However, delaying patches — especially for known exploits — opens the door for attackers.

Fix: Implement a structured patch management policy with clear timelines for high-risk vulnerabilities.

3. Overlooking Insider Threats

Experts often focus on external threats and underestimate the risk from internal users — whether malicious or simply careless.

Fix: Regular training, access controls, and behaviour monitoring help mitigate insider risks.

4. Assuming MFA is a Silver Bullet

Multi-factor authentication is essential, but it’s not foolproof. SIM-swapping, phishing for MFA codes, and session hijacking still work.

Fix: Use app-based MFA (like authenticator apps), and pair with user training on social engineering tactics.

5. Not Practising What They Preach

Security professionals sometimes fail to apply their own advice to personal devices or accounts, especially when off duty.

Fix: Maintain the same level of security hygiene at home and work — your personal data is still a target.

6. Forgetting to Encrypt Backups

Backups are essential, but if they’re not encrypted, they become an easy target for attackers — or even worse, leaked in plain text.

Fix: Always encrypt backups and store them separately from the main system.

7. Neglecting Physical Security

Laptops left in cars, unlocked office doors, or unattended terminals can lead to breaches — yet physical security is often overlooked.

Fix: Incorporate physical security checks and awareness into your cybersecurity strategy.

8. Over-reliance on Automation

While automation helps streamline tasks, it’s not a substitute for human oversight. Misconfigured tools can go unnoticed until damage is done.

Fix: Regularly audit and monitor automated systems to ensure they’re functioning correctly.

9. Ignoring Threat Intelligence Feeds

Some experts become so focused on internal systems that they ignore external threat feeds or communities that provide early warning.

Fix: Subscribe to reliable threat intelligence sources and make time to review them.

10. Failing to Review Logs Regularly

Logging is only useful if someone is looking at the logs. Attack indicators often go unnoticed due to lack of review.

Fix: Set up automated alerts for suspicious activity and assign someone to regularly analyse logs.

11. Underestimating Social Engineering

Even experts get tricked. Social engineering attacks are increasingly sophisticated and personalised.

Fix: Regular training, simulated phishing campaigns, and a strong “trust but verify” culture are vital.

12. Not Segmenting Networks Properly

A flat network can lead to massive breaches. Yet, in the interest of convenience, network segmentation is sometimes neglected.

Fix: Implement micro-segmentation where possible, and apply strict access controls between segments.

13. Thinking Compliance Equals Security

Just because a company meets GDPR, ISO 27001, or Cyber Essentials doesn’t mean it’s truly secure. Compliance is a baseline, not a strategy.

Fix: Go beyond checkbox compliance — tailor your security approach to your actual risk profile.

14. Failing to Test the Incident Response Plan

Having a plan is great, but not testing it under realistic conditions leads to confusion when a real breach occurs.

Fix: Conduct regular tabletop exercises and red team assessments to keep your response sharp.

15. Burnout and Fatigue

Cybersecurity is high-pressure work. Fatigued experts are more likely to miss warning signs or make poor decisions.

Fix: Promote a healthy work-life balance and ensure teams are properly resourced to avoid burnout.

Final Thoughts

Cybersecurity is never “done.” Even the most experienced professionals are fallible — and recognising that is half the battle. By understanding these common missteps, you can build a more resilient security posture, whether you’re a small business, enterprise, or individual user.

🔐 Stay vigilant, stay updated — and never stop learning.