Phishing Campaigns in the Workplace: Are They Really Worth It?

Phishing Campaigns in the Workplace: Are They Really Worth It?

In today’s cyber-threat landscape, phishing remains one of the most common—and successful—methods used by attackers to breach organizations. It’s hardly surprising, then, that many companies turn to simulated phishing campaigns as a way to educate and train their employees. But are these mock attacks helpful, or do they create more problems than they solve?

Let’s explore the pros and cons of running phishing campaigns in the workplace and, ultimately, whether your company should invest in them.

What Are Phishing Campaigns?

A phishing campaign is typically a fake email or message sent by the company (or a cybersecurity provider) to its employees. The goal is to mimic real phishing attempts and see who clicks, who reports, and who might fall for the trick. These campaigns often form part of a larger cybersecurity awareness strategy.

Pros of Running Phishing Campaigns

1. Improved Awareness and Vigilance

Simulated phishing helps employees recognize what a phishing attempt looks like. It turns abstract training into something tangible—making people more cautious and alert in real situations.

2. Identifies Weak Links

Phishing simulations reveal which employees or departments are more likely to fall for scams, helping companies provide targeted training where it’s needed most.

3. Reinforces Security Culture

Regular campaigns build a culture of scepticism and verification. Employees learn that it’s okay to question suspicious emails and report them without fear.

4. Prepare for Real Threats

Cyberattacks often rely on human error. A well-run phishing campaign can reduce the chance of someone unknowingly clicking a malicious link in a real-life attack.

5. Tracks Progress Over Time

Companies can track improvement by measuring click rates, reporting rates, and overall employee responses over multiple campaigns.

Cons of Running Phishing Campaigns

1. Employee Frustration or Embarrassment

If not handled carefully, phishing campaigns can feel like a "gotcha" moment. Employees who fall for them might feel embarrassed, punished, or singled out.

2. False Sense of Security

Running occasional phishing tests without broader training may lead companies to believe their workforce is secure, even if deeper issues persist.

3. Disruption to Workflow

Some campaigns, especially complex or overly realistic ones, can interrupt workflows or cause unnecessary panic—especially if employees think it's a real threat.

4. Trust Issues

Poorly communicated or overly aggressive phishing simulations can backfire, leading employees to distrust the IT department or leadership.

5. Legal or Ethical Concerns

In some jurisdictions, phishing campaigns must follow specific guidelines, especially if they collect data about employee performance. Companies must balance training with privacy and ethical transparency.

So, Phishing Campaigns: Yes or No?

The consensus is yes—but with care.

Phishing campaigns can be highly effective when integrated into a broader cybersecurity education program that, collectively, helps to cultivate better practices and enhanced knowledge for everyone's protection. They should not be used to shame employees or "catch them out" but instead to raise awareness, teach best practices, and promote a proactive security culture.

The key is to:

• Be transparent about the purpose of the campaigns
• Use them as learning opportunities, not punishments
• Offer follow-up training and support
• Avoid overly deceptive or emotionally manipulative tactics

When done right, phishing campaigns are a powerful tool that helps turn your biggest security vulnerability—human error—into a strong line of defence.

Phishing campaigns aren’t a silver bullet, but they’re better than doing nothing. When used thoughtfully and respectfully, they can significantly improve your organisation's cybersecurity posture.