The Most Common Cybersecurity Mistakes UK Employees Make

In today’s digital-first workplace, cybersecurity is no longer just the responsibility of the IT department. Every employee, from interns to executives, plays a role in keeping company data safe. And yet, despite growing awareness, UK organisations continue to face security breaches due to surprisingly common — and preventable — mistakes made by employees.

Here are the most frequent cybersecurity slip-ups UK employees make, and how your business can help prevent them.

1. Using Weak or Reused Passwords

Despite the push for stronger authentication practices, many employees still use simple or recycled passwords across multiple platforms. A 2024 survey by the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) found that “123456” and “qwerty” were still among the most-used passwords in the UK.

Solution:
Encourage the use of password managers and enforce policies that require complex, unique passwords. Where possible, implement two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of security.

2. Falling for Phishing Emails

Phishing remains one of the most successful cyberattack methods in the UK. Fraudulent emails that appear to come from HMRC, Microsoft, or internal departments can trick employees into clicking malicious links or providing sensitive information.

Solution:
Run regular phishing simulations and provide mandatory training sessions to teach staff how to spot red flags like misspelled domains, urgent requests, or suspicious attachments.

3. Using Unauthorised Devices or Apps (Shadow IT)

Whether it’s uploading documents to personal Google Drives or using unapproved messaging apps, many employees unintentionally create security gaps by sidestepping official tools for convenience.

Solution:
Establish clear BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) and remote working policies. Make sure approved tools are user-friendly so employees have no reason to go rogue.

4. Neglecting Software Updates

Delaying updates for laptops, smartphones, or work software can expose systems to known vulnerabilities. In some UK breaches, outdated software has been a direct contributor to the attack.

Solution:
Enable automatic updates wherever possible and set reminders for devices that require manual action. Regularly audit devices for compliance.

5. Poor Data Handling Practices

From leaving sensitive documents open on desks to emailing unencrypted files, improper handling of data continues to be a major security risk — especially with GDPR making data breaches more costly than ever.

Solution:
Train staff on data classification and proper handling procedures. Use encryption for sensitive communications and invest in secure file-sharing tools.

6. Over-sharing on Social Media

Employees sometimes unknowingly reveal useful information on LinkedIn, Twitter (X), or even Facebook that can be used for social engineering attacks. For instance, sharing details about internal tools or upcoming projects can give attackers a roadmap.

Solution:
Provide guidance on what is and isn’t appropriate to share publicly, especially if they’re in leadership or technical roles.

Final Thoughts

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility — and even the most robust technical defences can be undermined by human error. By raising awareness of these common mistakes and fostering a culture of cyber vigilance, UK businesses can significantly reduce their risk exposure.

Remember: A well-informed team is your first line of defence. Invest in training, stay up to date with threat trends, and encourage a security-first mindset across every department.

Want help building a more cyber-resilient workforce?

Get in touch with our cybersecurity consultants for tailored training and policy support that keeps your business one step ahead of cyber threats.