When it comes to protecting your business from cyber threats, the role of the employee is crucial. While your IT team manages firewalls, backups, and other technical defenses, their efforts alone are not sufficient. Every employee plays a vital role in maintaining cybersecurity by adopting simple yet effective habits.

As we step into 2025, let’s resolve to make this the year when everyone does their part to keep the workplace secure. Bring these six New Year’s resolutions to your next company meeting and encourage your coworkers to embrace them. Together, you can create a safer environment for everyone.

1. Avoid Writing Down Passwords

Strong passwords become vulnerable the moment they are written on a sticky note or saved in an unprotected file. Although it is tempting to jot down a hard-to-remember password, this creates a major vulnerability. This significantly increases the risk of a security breach. Resolve to memorize important passwords and use a secure method to manage them when necessary.

By committing to secure practices, you ensure that your access credentials don’t become an easy target for cybercriminals. It’s a straightforward habit that significantly enhances workplace security.

2. Think Before Clicking on Links 

Cybercriminals rely on urgency and curiosity to trick people into clicking malicious links. Always pause to carefully examine links in emails, texts, or messages, especially if they come from unexpected sources. Hover over links to preview URLs and identify red flags, like unusual domains or slight misspellings.

Your IT team may block known malicious websites, but they can’t scrutinize every link you come across. By taking a moment to verify the legitimacy of a link, you play a critical role in preventing phishing attacks. Hackers count on human error—don’t give them the chance to exploit it.

3. Report Suspicious Activity Immediately

Notice unusual activity? Report it immediately. If an email seems fishy or your computer behaves strangely, inform your IT team right away. Prompt reporting can stop threats before they escalate, preventing minor issues from becoming major incidents. Quick action helps contain risks and protect the workplace.

4. Don’t Plug in Unknown USB Devices 

USB drives may seem harmless, but they can carry hidden malware that infects your system as soon as they’re connected. Avoid plugging in unverified devices, whether found, received at a trade show, or borrowed. Always err on the side of caution.

Your IT team can’t protect against every physical threat, especially from devices you encounter outside the office. Hackers often employ methods such as infected USB drives to bypass digital defenses entirely. By refusing to plug in unknown devices, you’re taking a proactive step to protect your company’s network.

5. Keep Work Devices Separate from Personal Use

Mixing work and personal life can weaken security boundaries. Avoid using your work computer for personal activities like streaming, shopping, or installing non-work-related software. This simple practice significantly reduces the risk of accidental downloads or exposure to malicious sites.

By keeping work and personal activities separate, you’re helping maintain the integrity of the company’s network. It’s an effective way to support your IT team’s efforts and enhance overall security.

6. Lock Your Computer When Away

Even stepping away from your desk briefly can expose sensitive information. Always lock your computer when leaving your workstation, even for a moment. Most systems let you lock your computer quickly with a simple keyboard shortcut, so there’s no excuse not to do it.

Locking your screen ensures that sensitive information isn’t accessed or altered by anyone else, even accidentally. It’s a small act that proves your commitment to protecting your company’s data.

A Team Effort for a Safer Workplace

These simple resolutions are steps anyone can take—no IT expertise required—and they make a meaningful impact on your company’s overall cybersecurity. As we enter 2025, remember that cybersecurity isn’t just the responsibility of your IT team. Each person’s actions contribute to the safety and security of the business. 

By making these best practices a habit and encouraging your team to do the same, you create a culture of vigilance and accountability. Effective cybersecurity begins with collective effort, ensuring that together, you’re prepared to face the challenges of the new year.