🤖 HR Teams Are Prime Targets for Cybercriminals

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🛒 HR Trends: HR Teams Are Prime Targets for Cybercriminals

A new analysis reveals that HR departments are increasingly being impersonated in cyberattacks due to their access to sensitive data and employee trust. Attackers craft fake HR emails—such as fake policy updates or onboarding messages—to bypass defenses. HR may appear trustworthy to staff, making impersonation attacks more effective. These threats emphasize the need for secure communication protocols, regular staff training, and multi-factor authentication for HR tools.. Read more.

🎧 HR Insights

Starting a new job is more than just paperwork and introductions — it’s the beginning of an employee’s connection to the workplace. At Vanderbilt University, Joanna Echols, senior director of operational optimization, and Chance Ryon, operations services and solutions manager, have reimagined onboarding to focus on belonging, culture, and engagement from day one. Their approach blends digital tools with personal interactions, emphasizes key moments that shape the employee journey, and creates an inclusive experience where every hire feels welcomed, prepared, and empowered to contribute.

💡 HR Tips & Tricks

Tip of the Day: Launch “HR Pulse Cards” that managers distribute weekly to gather quick feedback—one success story or challenge. Collect insights to stay proactive and responsive to emerging issues.

Trick of the Day: Use a lightly disguised “ghost ticket”—a fake policy message—to gauge employee comprehension. Confusion or questions flag areas needing better communication or training.

🧾 HR Case Files - Apple’s Stand on Encryption and the UK Government’s Retreat

The UK government has stepped back from its demand that Apple weaken its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) system to allow access to encrypted iCloud data. Introduced in 2022, ADP ensures that photos, notes, and backups are secured with end-to-end encryption, leaving only the account holder able to unlock them. Apple resisted the order under the Investigatory Powers Act, even pulling ADP from the UK earlier this year while launching legal action against the Home Office. After months of negotiations involving US and UK officials, the demand has now been withdrawn.

Key Takeaways

• Apple refused to create a back door for encrypted iCloud data under the UK’s Investigatory Powers Act.

• The UK government has withdrawn its demand after international discussions.

• Legal proceedings are ongoing, with rights groups warning that weakening encryption would endanger users worldwide.

• Apple continues to emphasize that strong encryption protects ordinary people and their data..

🧰 HR Toolbox

Stay equipped with the latest HR events and resources.

Resource of the Day

The rise of AI tools like ChatGPT has sparked discussions about the emotional connections some users are forming with technology. While OpenAI’s Sam Altman has shared concerns about people feeling more supported by AI than by those around them, experts caution HR leaders against overstating this trend. Catherine Connelly, professor of organizational behaviour at McMaster University, stresses that professionals view AI as tools, not replacements for human interaction.

Event of the Day

Gartner’s HR Symposium, happening from Oct 27-29 at Orlando, offers expert-led insights with hands-on exploration of practical tools and emerging solutions. HR professionals attending can expect to engage deeply with AI, leadership strategy, and operational excellence in the HR function.

For event details and registration, visit the website. 

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