Picture this: It’s a new employee’s third day on the job. They’re enthusiastic, focused, and eager to make a good impression. Suddenly, a message arrives in their inbox—allegedly from Human Resources—asking them to quickly log in to finalize their onboarding documents.
Without hesitation, they click the link.
Unfortunately, it’s a phishing attempt. And just like that, your organization is at risk.
According to Keepnet’s 2025 New Hires Phishing Susceptibility Report, employees who are new to an organization are 44% more likely to fall victim to phishing and social engineering scams compared to their more experienced colleagues. This is a significant, often underestimated risk—one that could lead to serious consequences if left unaddressed.
Why New Employees Are More Vulnerable
It’s not a matter of recklessness. In fact, most new hires are diligent and committed. However, they’re also:
- Unfamiliar with internal systems, workflows, and communication styles
- Managing a steep learning curve during onboarding
- Eager to follow instructions without questioning authority
- Possibly unaware that cybersecurity training is available—or necessary
These factors make them prime targets for cybercriminals, who are fully aware of this vulnerability.
In the first 90 days of employment, 71% of new hires fail phishing simulations. In contrast, only 49% of seasoned employees make the same mistakes. This isn’t a fluke—it’s a clear trend that organizations must address.
Common Phishing Scenarios That Target New Hires
Cybercriminals often exploit a lack of familiarity and urgency to manipulate newcomers. Here are a few real-life tactics:
1. CEO Impersonation
A fraudulent message, seemingly from the CEO, requests a wire transfer. Wanting to help, a new employee complies—no questions asked.
2. Fake HR Portal
An email directs the new hire to log into a portal to complete onboarding. The site looks legitimate, but it’s designed to steal credentials.
3. Invoice Fraud from Fake Vendors
A finance team recruit receives an urgent request for payment from someone posing as a vendor. Lacking knowledge of vendor protocols, the employee pays it.
These incidents aren’t hypothetical. They happen daily. And without adequate awareness training, your new team members may not recognize these red flags in time.
The Business Cost of Ignoring This Risk
Overlooking phishing risks during onboarding can lead to devastating outcomes:
- Data breaches and ransomware infections
- Erosion of customer trust and reputation
- Regulatory non-compliance and legal liabilities
- Operational downtime and financial loss
The consequences are not just technical—they impact every layer of your business. But there’s good news: these risks are preventable with the right strategy.
How Keepnet Reduces New Hire Phishing Risk
Keepnet Human Risk Management platform helps organizations proactively defend against these threats, especially during the high-risk onboarding phase. Here’s how it works:
1. Intelligent Segmentation
Automatically categorize new hires and at-risk users based on behavior, role, and exposure—without manual effort.
2. AI-Driven Training Programs
Provide tailored simulations and security awareness training content based on location, language, and job responsibilities.
3. Instant Reporting and Incident Handling
Allow employees to report suspicious emails with one click. Keepnet then analyzes threats and enables your IT team to respond quickly.
4. Gamification for Deeper Engagement
Use points, badges, and leaderboards to make security learning more engaging—and more effective.
5. C-Level Dashboards
Track training outcomes and link behavioral data to business impact with clear metrics.
6. Behavioral Monitoring
Analyze training completion rates, response times, and risky trends to intervene before a real attack happens.
Why Prevention Pays Off
Organizations that implement Keepnet’s solution see measurable benefits:
- Up to 85% reduction in phishing-related incidents
- Improved awareness across all departments
- 100% training completion rates for new hires
- Reduced system downtime from cyberattacks
- Preserved brand reputation and public trust
- Streamlined regulatory compliance
Beyond minimizing risk, Keepnet helps cultivate a security-first culture—starting from day one.
Download the full report: https://keepnetlabs.com/reports/new-hires-phishing-susceptibility-report.
