Train Workforce on How to Identify and Report if Their Enterprise Assets are Missing Security Updates
Description
Train workforce to understand how to verify and report out-of-date software patches or any failures in automated processes and tools. Part of this training should include notifying IT personnel of any failures in automated processes and tools.
Implementation Checklist
Tool Recommendations
Security awareness training platform with simulated phishing, interactive training modules, and compliance reporting
KnowBe4 · Per-user subscription
Adaptive security awareness and behavior change platform with targeted training based on real threat data
Proofpoint · Per-user subscription
Phishing simulation and security awareness platform with real-time threat intelligence and incident response
Cofense · Per-user subscription
Threats & Vulnerabilities (CIS RAM)
Threat Scenarios
Exploitation of Known Vulnerability on Unpatched System
IntegrityAn attacker exploits a publicly disclosed vulnerability on a system where automated patching failed, and the failure went unreported because the user was not trained to recognize or report missing security updates.
Extended Exposure Window from Unreported Patch Failure
AvailabilityAn endpoint's automatic update mechanism breaks silently, leaving the system unpatched for months because the employee using the device was never trained to verify patch status or report anomalies.
Vulnerabilities (When Safeguard Absent)
Users Unable to Identify Missing Security Updates
Without training on how to verify software patch status, employees cannot recognize when their systems are out of date or when automated patching tools have failed.
No Process for Users to Report Automated Tool Failures
Employees who are not trained on reporting update failures do not escalate issues when they notice software is outdated, leaving IT unaware of patching gaps across the fleet.
Evidence Requirements
| Type | Evidence Item | Collection Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Technical | Configuration screenshots or exports showing protection controls enabled | Captured quarterly |
| Document | Procedure documentation for protection measures | Reviewed annually |
| Record | Training completion records and compliance rates | Tracked continuously, reported quarterly |
| Document | Training content and curriculum documentation | Reviewed annually |
| Document | Governing policy document (current, approved, communicated) | Reviewed annually |