Cybersecurity needs more than strong tech, it needs strong messaging

The most advanced security technology can’t protect an organization if employees click on phishing links or use weak passwords. While companies invest millions in cybersecurity tools and infrastructure, many overlook a critical component of defense: clear, consistent messaging that builds a security-minded culture. According to Verizon’s 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report, 74% of breaches stem from human elements, highlighting how technical controls alone fall short. Organizations need strategic communication to create awareness, drive behavioral change, and maintain stakeholder trust before, during, and after security incidents.

Building a security-minded culture through strategic communication

Security awareness can’t be achieved through occasional emails or annual training sessions. Organizations must develop comprehensive communication strategies that regularly reinforce best practices and make security personally relevant to employees. This means moving beyond technical jargon to explain security concepts in clear, relatable terms.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) recommends using real-world examples and storytelling to illustrate security principles. For instance, comparing password security to house keys helps employees understand why password reuse puts multiple accounts at risk. Regular communication through multiple channels — from team meetings to internal newsletters — keeps security top of mind.

Organizations are increasingly leveraging gamification to make security training more engaging. In one instance, a financial services firm incorporated training modules that awarded digital badges and points to employees for correctly identifying simulated phishing emails. This approach not only made the training process more interactive but also reinforced key security protocols in a memorable way. 

Communicating during security incidents

When security incidents occur, clear communication becomes even more critical. The first 24-48 hours after discovering a breach often define stakeholder perceptions and trust. Organizations need predetermined communication protocols and templates ready before incidents happen.

Target’s 2013 data breach serves as a cautionary tale of poor incident communication. The company’s delayed and inconsistent messaging damaged customer trust and contributed to a drop in quarterly profits. Target offered retail shoppers a 10% storewide discount a weekend in December 2013 — despite this, the brand reported total transactions for the same time last year were down 3-4%. In contrast, when Norsk Hydro faced a ransomware attack in 2019, their transparent communication strategy — including daily video updates from executives — helped maintain stakeholder confidence despite significant operational disruption.

Marketing security as a competitive advantage

Security messaging shouldn’t focus solely on threats and compliance. Forward-thinking organizations position strong security as a competitive differentiator. This requires marketing and PR teams to work closely with security professionals to communicate security capabilities effectively.

Building trust through proactive communication

Trust in security measures requires ongoing dialogue with stakeholders. Regular updates about security improvements, threat landscape changes, and incident response capabilities help demonstrate security maturity. Organizations should share their security story through multiple channels — from detailed whitepapers to social media updates.

IBM’s X-Force Exchange platform provides an example of effective security communication. By sharing threat research and security insights publicly, IBM positions itself as a security leader while helping clients understand emerging risks.

The role of PR in security reputation management

Public relations plays a vital role in maintaining security reputation. PR teams must work with security professionals to translate technical capabilities into compelling narratives that resonate with different stakeholders. This includes developing crisis communication plans specifically for security incidents.

When Capital One experienced a major data breach in 2019, their PR response focused on transparency and customer support. They quickly disclosed the incident’s scope, offered free credit monitoring, and maintained regular communication throughout the recovery process. While the breach still damaged their reputation, their communication approach helped minimize long-term impact.

Strong security requires more than robust technology — it demands strategic communication that builds awareness, drives behavior change, and maintains stakeholder trust. Organizations must invest in security messaging with the same rigor they apply to technical controls. This means developing comprehensive communication strategies, preparing for incidents, and positioning security as a competitive advantage. Those who master security communication will be better positioned to protect their assets and maintain stakeholder confidence in an increasingly threatening digital environment.