Staff are the 'Weakest Link in the Security Chain'

Advice issued by GCHQ and seen by The Telegraph warns firms that staff are the 'weakest link in the security chain' and could be blackmailed by enemy spies

Britain’s spies have told businesses to consider stripping employees of company smart phones and memory sticks to protect themselves from cyber-attacks, The Telegraph can disclose.

Advice issued by GCHQ, the government’s listening post, and other departments warns firms that staff are the “weakest link in the security chain” and protective action must be taken.

Companies have been told staff should only use trusted Wi-Fi networks – effectively ruling out using laptops in coffee shops like Starbucks without special protections – and constantly update internet browsers.

They were also warned disgruntled employees may attempt to “steal or physically deface” computers or become vulnerable to blackmail if secrets about their personal lives become known.

The warnings were contained in ‘10 Steps to Cyber Security’ guidance issued by CESG – the Information Security arm of GCHQ – in conjunction with the Cabinet Office, Business Department and Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure.

Cited in The Telegraph 

What would you say is your weakest link?