qlytix-inc
Background
While the importance of information security training is universally acknowledged, many organizations still rely on outdated training methods that focus on information dissemination rather than fostering behavioral change. These traditional approaches often fail to engage learners deeply, resulting in an inability to recognize and respond to sophisticated cyber threats. As a result, they experience a significant waste of resources—investing substantial funds in security training, still failing to prevent fraud effectively.
Recognizing this challenge, a banking organization sought a solution to enhance employee vigilance, ensuring that staff members could not only protect the organization but also educate, train, and guide their customers in identifying and avoiding potential threats.
Problem Statement
Organizations are finding that conventional information security training methods are insufficient in equipping employees to identify and mitigate cyber threats effectively. The lack of immersive, scenario-based learning means that employees are not fully prepared to deal with real-world cyberattacks, leaving the organization vulnerable to security breaches.
Pain Points
Engagement:
Traditional training methods fail to engage learners, leading to low retention and application of information security principles.
Relevance:
Employees struggle to connect theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world scenarios, limiting their ability to recognize and respond to cyber threats.
Behavioral Change:
Without immersive and interactive learning, employees do not develop the necessary behavioral changes to prevent security breaches.
Objectives
- To create an engaging and immersive training module that enhances employees’ understanding of cyber threats.
- To enable employees to experience the perspective of cyber criminals, thereby improving their ability to recognize and respond to security threats.
- To foster behavioral change that translates into better security practices in the workplace.
Solution Highlights:
QLytix introduced a gamified training module where learners assume the role of a cybercriminal attempting to extract sensitive information from unsuspecting targets. This role-reversal approach provided learners with an immersive experience, helping them understand the tactics and strategies used by cyber criminals.
Role Play:
Learners played the role of a cybercriminal, offering a unique viewpoint on information security.
Immersive Environment:
The training was set in a highly immersive and visually rendered environment.
Decision Pathways:
Scenarios were built with decision pathways, requiring learners to make choices that affected the outcome of the scenario.
Interactivity:
The module included interactive elements to maintain high levels of engagement.
Game Mechanics:
Game-based elements were integrated to increase interest and motivation.
SCORM Compliant:
The module was fully compliant with SCORM standards, ensuring seamless integration with the LMS.
User Interface:
The UI was intuitive, and the scenarios were relatable, making the training accessible to all learners.
Measurable Metrics
High Engagement:
51% of targeted learners attempted the course at least twice, demonstrating high engagement.
Rapid Completion:
63% of learners completed the module within 24 hours, compared to the usual average of 28% in the organization.
Positive Feedback:
The module received a rating of 4.5 out of 5 for concept clarity, engagement, relevance, UI, and design.
Full Participation:
100% of learners completed the module within the first 10 days of its launch.
Desire for More:
Over 80% of learners expressed interest in similar gamified training for other subjects.
Improved Awareness:
More than 80% of learners felt they had a better understanding of information security threats after completing the module.
Conclusion
The gamified cyber security training by QLytix was a resounding success, bringing about significant behavioral changes and increased awareness of information security among employees. By immersing learners in the role of a cybercriminal, the training fostered a deeper understanding of the tactics used in cyberattacks, leading to better-prepared employees and a more secure organization.