Why New Hires Are a Hidden Cybersecurity Risk (and How to Protect Your Business)

New Hires, New Risks: Why Your Newest Team Members Are Prime Targets for Cyberattacks

When you bring someone new onto your team, your focus is usually on getting them set up for success; a laptop, an email login, access to key systems, and maybe a warm welcome from the team.

But here’s something most business owners don’t realize:
Those first few months are one of the riskiest times for your cybersecurity.

New data shows that 71% of new hires fall for phishing or social engineering attacks within their first 90 days.
That’s nearly three out of four new employees.

Cybercriminals are actively targeting people who are still learning the ropes, and it’s working.

Why new hires are easy targets

Starting a new job can be overwhelming. There’s a lot to remember, a lot of people to meet, and a lot of pressure to make a good impression.

Attackers know this. They take advantage of that uncertainty by sending fake messages that look like they come from HR, a manager, or even IT support.

Maybe it’s a request to “update your payroll info,” or “verify your credentials.”
Sometimes, it’s as simple as a fake invoice or a “quick favor” email that looks like it came from the boss.

Because your new hire doesn’t yet know what’s normal (or who’s who), they’re much more likely to click without thinking.

In fact:
🔹 New employees are 44% more likely to fall for phishing attempts.
🔹 When the attacker pretends to be an executive, that risk jumps to 45% higher than seasoned staff.

The solution: Build security into onboarding

Cybersecurity training shouldn’t wait until a new hire has “settled in.”
Those early days are exactly when they need it most.

When companies integrate security awareness into their onboarding process, complete with real-world examples and short simulations, phishing risk drops by up to 30% within the first few months.

That’s a big improvement for a small investment of time.

Technology helps, but people matter most

Firewalls, antivirus tools, and monitoring systems are critical, but your people are your first line of defense.
And if your newest employees aren’t trained to recognize a threat, your security is only as strong as their inbox.

Start strengthening your team from day one

At Soarin Group, we help businesses protect their people and their systems, from secure onboarding to ongoing cybersecurity awareness.

If you’d like help building a simple, effective training plan for new employees, or want to make sure your existing defenses are up to date, let’s talk.

👉 Get in touch with Soarin Group

Because your business is only as secure as the people who help run it.