Phishing Simulations: How to Truly Increase Employee Resilience

Phishing simulations are the most cost-effective security measure with a measurable impact, but only if they are implemented as a program rather than a one-off test. Let's look at how to set them up so that resilience actually grows.

TL;DR — Key Takeaways

• Measure click trends and reporting trends for suspicious mail, not just the click rate.
• Simulations should be regular (monthly or bi-monthly) and vary in difficulty.
• Never publicly expose individuals — this destroys the reporting culture.
• The 'Report Phish' button is just as important as the simulation itself.

What a Phishing Simulation Is and Isn't

A simulation is a controlled message that mimics a real attack and records who opened it, clicked, or entered data. The goal is not to catch employees, but to measure where the organization is vulnerable and direct training where it is needed most.

A simulation is not a substitute for technical controls. If emails reach mailboxes without SPF, DKIM, and DMARC verification, an employee will eventually get caught — regardless of training.

Why the Human Factor is Still Critical

Most successful breaches start with a message, not by exploiting a technical vulnerability.

• Attackers use real context: invoices, suppliers, and managers' names.
• Messages today are written in perfect local language; typos are no longer a guaranteed red flag.
• Attacks via Teams messages and SMS are on the rise.
• Rapid reporting reduces IT response time from hours to minutes.

How to Get Started — Recommended Process

1. Enable the 'Report Message' button in Outlook.
2. Conduct a baseline simulation without prior notice, but with management approval.
3. Present results anonymously and explain the red flags that led to the clicks.
4. Offer short training to users who clicked, not a reprimand.
5. Repeat with increasing difficulty and varied scenarios.
6. Monitor indicators by department and report to management quarterly.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Common Mistakes

The most common mistake is punishment. When employees understand that a click means a formal warning, they will stop reporting — and IT loses its fastest detection source.

Another mistake is using simulations that are too easy, giving a false sense of security. If the click rate is under 3 %, the scenario is likely too obvious.

How VitalIT Helps

At VitalIT, we set up simulation programs, handle technical email protection, and conduct short training sessions. View our Cybersecurity Services.

Read more: Email Protection: SPF, DKIM, and DMARC and Ransomware: Recovery Plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is simulation legal regarding GDPR?

Yes, if performed with management's knowledge, proportionally, and without publicly shaming individuals.

How often should we run simulations?

Once a month for part of the organization or every two months for the entire company.

How much time does training take?

An effective format is 5–10 minutes immediately after a click, plus a 30-minute workshop twice a year.

Do we inform employees in advance?

We announce the program itself, but not the specific simulations — otherwise, the measurement is not credible.

Which scenarios should we use?

Fake supplier invoices, HR messages, delivery notifications, and internal Teams messages.