Why Phishing Simulations Must Be Core to Your Cybersecurity Strategy

TL;DR

Phishing simulation is a vital component of any cybersecurity strategy. It transforms human vulnerabilities into frontline defence by equipping staff with the skills to spot and stop phishing attacks in real time. As phishing grows more sophisticated, businesses must adopt proactive, people-focused defences—starting with simulation.

The Importance of Phishing Simulation

The Importance of Phishing Simulation as Part of Your Cybersecurity Strategy

Why Phishing Remains a Top Threat to Organisations

Phishing continues to be one of the most prevalent and successful attack vectors. In 2024, over 90% of cyber breaches began with a phishing email. Attackers exploit human psychology more than technological weaknesses, making phishing simulation a strategic imperative.

As Global CIO for an engineering manufacturer operating across 13 countries, I’ve witnessed firsthand how phishing emails can penetrate even the most robust infrastructure if staff are unprepared. A phishing simulation programme is not a ‘nice-to-have’—it’s a necessity.

What is a Phishing Simulation?

A phishing simulation mimics real-world cyberattacks without causing harm. It tests employees’ responses to mock phishing emails and helps identify gaps in awareness. When done right, it builds a security culture, strengthens user vigilance, and fosters a proactive security mindset.

The Business Case for Phishing Simulation

1. Reduce Risk and Financial Loss

Phishing simulations directly reduce risk exposure by raising awareness and lowering the success rate of actual attacks. Simulated training leads to:

• 70% reduction in click rates on malicious links within three months.

• Increased reporting of suspicious emails.

• Reduced downtime and reputational damage.

2. Meet Regulatory Requirements

With data protection regulations such as GDPR and industry-specific compliance standards, organisations must demonstrate employee cyber training. Phishing simulations provide tangible evidence of due diligence and training effectiveness.

3. Build a Human Firewall

Technical defences alone are not enough. As cybercriminals pivot towards social engineering, employees must become an active line of defence. Phishing simulation empowers your team to think critically before they click.

Implementing a Successful Simulation Strategy

Based on experience delivering global cybersecurity enhancements, including phishing defence systems, I recommend the following steps:

1. Tailor the Simulations

Different departments face different threats. Tailor scenarios for finance, HR, operations, and leadership to reflect real-life phishing tactics relevant to each role.

2. Measure and Improve

Track metrics like open rate, click rate, and report rate. Use the data to fine-tune training, target high-risk groups, and demonstrate improvements to stakeholders.

3. Make it Routine

One-off exercises are ineffective. Run simulations quarterly to reinforce behaviours and adapt to evolving threats.

4. Integrate with Broader Cyber Awareness

Phishing simulation must be part of a holistic cybersecurity strategy that includes endpoint protection, policy enforcement, awareness training, and third-party risk management.

Real-World Insight

At LoneStar Group, where I serve as Global CIO, we embedded phishing simulations within a broader cybersecurity programme. Over eight months, click-through rates on simulated phishing dropped by over 60%. The initiative, which included awareness training and internal communications, cultivated a culture of vigilance and accountability.

FAQs

Q: How often should phishing simulations be conducted?

A: At least quarterly, with targeted simulations for high-risk departments or new joiners monthly.

Q: Will employees feel punished or embarrassed?

A: When implemented with a learning-first mindset, simulations promote growth, not blame. Reinforce that the goal is education.

Q: Are phishing simulations worth the investment?

A: Absolutely. The cost of a successful phishing breach often exceeds £100,000. Preventing just one can more than justify the programme cost.

Q: Can phishing simulations be automated?

A: Yes. Many solutions offer automated campaigns with varied templates and real-time reporting.

Final Thoughts

Phishing simulation is no longer optional—it’s a strategic imperative. As cyber threats evolve, your organisation's security depends not just on firewalls and encryption, but on people. Equip them. Test them. Learn from them. In doing so, you build not only a defence but a culture of resilience.

Richard Keenlyside is the Global CIO for the LoneStar Group and a former IT Director for J Sainsbury’s PLC.

Call me on +44(0) 1642 040 268 or email richard@rjk.info.

Follow me on X https://x.com/cioinpractice & LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardkeenlyside/.