One fake email can cause more damage than a broken firewall. Phishing attacks don’t always come with red flags. They often look completely normal. That’s what makes them so effective.
A well-timed click, and you’re dealing with a serious issue.
Running phishing simulations helps your staff recognise suspicious emails before it’s too late. But how often is enough?
Keep reading and look at what makes a good schedule and how to get the best out of every test.
Contents
Why Frequency Matters in Phishing Simulations
If you’re only running one test a year, you’re probably missing the point. Cyber criminals aren’t waiting for the next training cycle. They’re looking for a weak moment, whether it’s someone distracted, someone new, or someone in a rush.
Frequent simulations give people more chances to practise spotting threats. It turns caution into habit. And because phishing emails are always changing, regular tests help staff stay sharp.
Tailoring to Your Business Needs
There’s no fixed rule because every business is different. The right schedule depends on:
- Your industry: If you deal with sensitive data, test more often.
- Staff turnover: New hires need regular training to keep up.
- Previous issues: If you’ve had a breach or near-miss, don’t wait.
A strong phishing test for employees should mimic the kinds of messages your team receives. A generic test won’t teach much. Thus, it’s important to make it feel real.
Ideal Cadence for Phishing Simulations
Most security specialists in the UK recommend testing your team once a month or at least every other month. This keeps awareness high, especially in sectors where the stakes are higher, like finance or healthcare.
A consistent schedule helps:
- Build long-term habits
- Train new staff early
- Spot which parts of the business need extra support
If you’re new to it, starting with quarterly tests can still make a big difference. Once you’re more comfortable, increase the frequency and add in different types of scenarios.
Using Results to Guide Future Tests
It’s not about catching people out. It’s about learning what works and where to improve. After each test, it’s important to analyse who clicked, who reported, and how fast your team reacted.
These insights should shape the next round. If lots of people fall for a fake delivery note, for example, focus your next training on that type of scam.
Building a Culture of Awareness
You can run tests every week, but it won’t mean much if staff are too afraid to speak up. Create a space where it’s okay to ask questions, raise concerns, or admit a mistake.
People learn best when they feel supported, not judged. Share what’s working, praise quick thinking, and keep the conversation going.
Make Testing Part of the Routine
Phishing simulations shouldn’t be a one-off surprise. They work best as part of a wider approach, with ongoing training, clear reporting channels, and regular updates on real threats.
Think of it like fire safety. You don’t just talk about it once a year and hope for the best. You practise, you improve, and you prepare.
So ask yourself this. If someone sent a fake email today, how quickly would your team pick up on it? If you’re not sure, it’s time to start testing smarter and more often.