To explain to non-technical stakeholders, you need to first explain to them in simple layman terms about what is happening. This is so that they would be able to understand what is going on. You must also tell them about the causes of this breach. This is so that they would know how to avoid things that caused the breach. You should then explain to them what needs to be done in order to resolve the security breach. This is so that they would know what role they should play in order to resolve this issue.

1. Describe What Happened in Simple Terms Begin by clearly stating that a security incident has occurred. Use analogies if helpful. 2. Explain the Impact Detail what information or systems were affected and the potential implications. 3. Outline Immediate Actions Taken Reassure stakeholders by explaining the steps already implemented to contain and assess the breach 4. Provide Next Steps Inform them about the ongoing measures and what they can expect. 5. Offer Support and Resources Ensure stakeholders know where to turn for assistance. By maintaining transparency and using relatable language, you can effectively communicate the situation, build trust, and guide stakeholders through the response process.

Explain the Breach Like a Weather Forecast I explain a breach like I’d explain a storm. ✅ What hit: "We had an intrusion through X vector." ✅ Who’s affected: "Here’s what data might be exposed." ✅ What we’ve done: "Firewalls are up, audit trails are sealed." Transparency + analogies = trust. Stakeholders don’t need jargon, they need clarity.

The "What" is the least important thing. The core explanation needs to focus on remediation status, risk assessments, asset / data impacts and other tangible business things, not anything technical. The most "technical" explanation can be around the inevitable "how did this happen?" question.

A security breach is when someone unauthorized accessed our network. Imagine our network as a secured building, and this breach is like someone sneaking in without permission. We've identified this issue, and our team is working on closing the access points and securing sensitive areas. We're also investigating potential impacts and will keep you updated on measures to prevent future breaches, ensuring our "building" stays secure.

To explain a network security incident to non-technical stakeholders, you must employ simple, calm language that is action- and impact-oriented. I would simply say we've identified unauthorized network activity that poses a security threat. I detail what this affects in terms of their systems or data they use, protecting their sensitive data. I detail specific immediate action taken to contain it: stopped access, investigating how it was accomplished, actively remediating the vulnerability. I outline what is to come, such as required user action (e.g., password reset), to ensure commitment to restoring full secure network operations quickly. It's about communicating necessary facts and demonstrating control for their reassurance.

Ooh I like this question. I’m not in network security—like at all—which is why I want to contribute. I’m the target audience for this example 😅 Here’s what you’ve got to do: 1. Talk to me like I’m 5. Use simple language, no jargon or acronyms. Give me metaphors, analogies—because I need less tech talk. 2. Tell me why this matters or could matter. I’ve got to understand why it’s important. Make it relevant so I know I need to care. (Those metaphors could work here too.) 3. Don’t just bring problems, please share solutions. We’ve established that I do not know tech. So, I’m going to need a description of the issue *and* your fix-it thoughts, please. 4. Let me ask the dumb questions. I know I know nothing. I’m trying. I promise.

Focus on the Business Impact and the role users will play in corrective actions. People are normally only interested in how external factors will affect their role. Answer the question: "How will it affect me?" And you should be OK.

Answer three basic questions for stakeholders: - What happened in simple terms? Consider using an easily understood analogy, such as describing the network as a office building or castle, articulating the security controls in place and how they were bypassed. - What does this mean for us? Explain what data was involved, the level of sensitivity, and the risk associated with the loss of this data. Further explain how this impacts operations for the business and its customers. - What are we doing about it? Walk through whether the breach is contained, and if not what continuing risks exist until full recovery is accomplished. Share what you can on the investigation, and lessons learned for how this will be prevented in the future.