7 Tips To Train Your Employees on Phishing Attacks

Cybercrime keeps growing and small UK firms, especially those based in London, are becoming prime targets. Phishing sits at the top of the threat list and the biggest concern doesn’t come from broken software-they come from simple human slip-ups. Just one accidental click on a forged email can put  your whole company into serious trouble. That is why many SMEs today are opting for managed IT support. It offers more than repair; it trains your teams, spots danger early and crafts a smarter, sturdier online workplace. Understanding what phishing is and how to train your employees spotting these threats are important to ensure business continuity.

 

What Is a Phishing Attack?

 

A phishing attack is an online scam in which criminals pose as people or brands you trust, such as banks, suppliers, even an internal team- to trick you into giving up passwords, money info, or to install hidden malware. Although email is still the main delivery channel, cyber criminals also use SMS (called smishing), phone chats (vishing) and social media DMs to attempt this crime.

 

Common Ways Phishing Attacks Appear

 

Phishing attempts will often come disguised in an email as notifications or links from ‘trusted’ brands or suppliers. Here are some common ways phishing attacks might appear:

 

• Urgent emails that seem to be from your bank, HMRC, or the IT team
• False invoices purporting to come from your usual suppliers
• Login screens that mimic Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace
• Links promising delivery updates, security alerts, or software upgrades
• Voicemails or texts warning of supposed account problems

 

For SMEs in London, especially those with hybrid or remote staff, spotting such tricks can be tough without regular basic-training refreshers.

 

 

 

What Do Attackers Want When Carrying Out Phishing Attacks?

 

When cybercriminals launch phishing schemes, they mainly want victims to unknowingly hand over sensitive information or passwords. They may also reach for payment info, like card numbers and sort codes, or tamper with invoice workflows so funds move the wrong way. Some cons may send hidden links that plant malware and hand the hacker remote control of the victims device. For UK firms, especially those bound by GDPR, this type of disruption can lead to hefty fines, loss of customers and a lengthy recovery.

 

7 Tips to Train Your Employees on Phishing Attacks

 

Companies can ensure their company is secure by training team members on simple ways to pick up on false phishing scams. From creating awareness workshops to implementing cyber-security specialists amongst each department:

 

1. Start with Cybersecurity Awareness Workshops

 

Run lively workshops at least every quarter and break down what phishing looks like, using real UK cases. Turn slides into discussion, ask staff to spot red flags and even role-play dodgy emails so the threat feels personal.

 

2. Run Fake Phishing Emails

 

Push out dummy phishing emails and watch how staff reply. These little drills train people to spot irregular emails and build quick-reflex habits. Most London-managed IT firms include this test in their full security services.

 

3. Drill the ‘Think-Before-You-Click’ Habit

 

Emphasise the habit of pausing before clicking on links or opening attachments-especially in unexpected emails or texts. Staff should double-check requests in person or by phone when the message asks for money or login details.

 

4. Make Reporting Quick and Welcomed

 

Make it easy and judgement-free to flag anything odd. A simple report-phishing email or button in Outlook lets staff sound the alarm without fear. Quick alerts can stop small problems from spreading through the whole company.

 

5. Simple Security Procedures

 

Be sure to write security rules in plain English and place them where every worker can easily access them. Cover smart use, strong passwords and steps for dealing with suspicious notes.

 

6. Appoint Cyber Specialists in Each Department

 

Pick volunteers as cyber champions to spread sound online habits within their squads. They become the go-to person for questions and help weave a culture of alertness through the company.

 

7. Update Training as Threats Evolve

 

Phishers change their playbook almost overnight. Review and refresh training materials often so staff see the newest tricks, from AI-written emails to deepfake voicemails. Working with a London IT support firm keeps your defences in step with emerging risks.