Sections of this topic
In this article, we’ll look at the reasons behind the rise of cyber attacks on small businesses and how the National Cyber Security Centre is launching new services to help protect these organizations.
Key Takeaways:
- The NCSC has introduced two new services to assist small businesses in staying secure online.
- The Cyber Action Plan and Check Your Cyber Security tools are part of the Cyber Aware campaign.
- Over a third of small businesses have experienced a cyber incident in the past year.
- The NCSC offers various guidance, products, and services to support small organizations.
New Online Security Services Launched by NCSC
Today, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) unveiled two new services designed to help millions of UK small businesses enhance their online security and protect their livelihoods.
The launch coincides with the latest phase of the NCSC’s Cyber Aware campaign, which aims to raise awareness of cyber security among small businesses, microbusinesses, and sole traders.
Supporting Small Businesses: The Cyber Action Plan
The NCSC encourages small businesses to take advantage of the Cyber Action Plan and Check Your Cyber Security tools.
The Cyber Action Plan can be completed online in under five minutes, providing tailored advice for businesses on improving their cyber security.
This easy-to-use tool helps businesses identify areas where they can enhance their online defences and protect their operations.
Check Your Cyber Security: A Tool for All Small Organizations
The Check Your Cyber Security tool is accessible via the Cyber Action Plan and can be used by any small organization, including schools and charities.
This user-friendly service allows non-tech users to identify and fix cyber security issues within their businesses.
By addressing these vulnerabilities, organizations can reduce their risk of falling victim to cyber attacks.
Cybersecurity Risks for Small Businesses
Small businesses remain a significant target for cyber criminals, with 38% of the UK’s small businesses experiencing a cyber incident in the past year.
These attacks can take various forms, including business email compromise, denial of service, and ransomware attacks.
By using the new tools provided by the NCSC, small businesses can better protect themselves against these threats.
Voices from the Industry
Lindy Cameron, the chief executive of the NCSC, along with Martin McTague, the National Chairperson of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), both urge small enterprises to make use of the Cyber Action Plan and Check Your Cyber Security resources.
They emphasize that these resources can help small businesses become more cyber resilient and reduce the cost and disruption caused by cybercrime.
Real-Life Impact of Cyber Attacks on Small Businesses
Despite the common belief that only large corporations are targeted by cyber criminals, small businesses are also at risk.
The experiences of Snow Windows and Loaf Manchester, two small businesses impacted by cyber attacks, highlight the devastating effects of these incidents.
By using the tools provided by the NCSC and implementing cybersecurity best practices, small businesses can reduce their risk and continue to thrive in their communities.
