CyberShield Academy

Why cybersecurity awareness matters

Business operations rely more than ever on digital technologies, increasing organisations’ exposure to cyber threats. While technical security measures are essential, experience shows that many incidents originate from human behaviour, weak processes or lack of awareness.

CyberShield Academy was developed by RSM Switzerland to address this challenge directly, helping organisations strengthen their first line of defence: their people.

A growing and measurable cyber risk

Cyber incidents are rising sharply in Switzerland, affecting organisations of all sizes. In 2024, the Swiss Federal Office for Cybersecurity (OFCS) received a reported cyber incident every 8.5 minutes, highlighting the scale and frequency of today’s threats.

Independent studies consistently demonstrate the central role of the human factor in cybersecurity incidents, but also the measurable impact of awareness and training:

• 82 % of data breaches involve a human element, such as error, misuse or social engineering (Verizon).
• Regular cybersecurity awareness training can reduce phishing susceptibility by up to 75 % (KnowBe4).
• 78.5 % of organisations report that awareness training directly prevented cybersecurity incidents (Hornet Security).
• Some organisations report a return on investment of up to 500 % from structured cybersecurity awarenessprogrammes (ISACA Journal).

These figures underline a clear conclusion: cybersecurity awareness is not a cost, but a risk reduction and value protection investment.

What is CyberShield Academy?

CyberShield Academy is a comprehensive and scalable cybersecurity awareness programme designed for organisations of all sizes and digital maturity levels.

It combines a digital training platform with practical simulations and monitoring tools, enabling organisations to raise awareness, measure engagement and continuously improve their cybersecurity posture.

Core components of the programme

CyberShield Academy includes:

• Interactive cybersecurity awareness training (online)
• Tailored phishing simulations aligned with your business context
• Dark web monitoring to detect potential data breaches
• Policy management and tracking to support compliance

For organisations preferring in person interaction, optional half day workshops are available. These expert led sessions focus on practical topics such as cyber hygiene, social engineering, password management and incident response.

A structured and flexible approach

CyberShield Academy is available through three packages, Starter, Standard and Premium allowing organisations to select the level of coverage that best fits their needs. Optional add ons provide additional flexibility as requirements evolve.

Rather than a one off training exercise, CyberShield Academy is designed as a continuous improvement journey, enabling organisations to track progress, identify risk areas and demonstrate measurable improvements over time.

Human expertise at the core

CyberShield Academy is led by Pierre Messus, Head of IT Risk Advisory at RSM Switzerland, who brings over 20 years of experience in information systems, risk management and cybersecurity.

His risk focused and performance driven approach ensures that awareness initiatives remain practical, relevant and aligned with operational and regulatory realities.

Invest in people to reduce cyber risk

Cybersecurity strategies only deliver value when they are understood and applied by those who use systems every day. By investing in structured awareness and training, organisations can significantly reduce cyber and fraud risks while strengthening resilience and compliance.

CyberShield Academy helps turn cybersecurity awareness into a measurable and sustainable business asset.

Download the CyberShield Academy factsheet

Get an overview of the programme, core components and available packages.