All businesses use technology to drive their business forward, from IT systems to bespoke software, to integrated CRM systems. Digital tools not only help improve efficiency within businesses and streamline operations, but they can also help achieve that competitive edge. One negative thing about depending on technology is that cybercriminals can use this to their advantage. SMEs often don’t have the resources and expertise to defend against sophisticated cyber threats, making them more vulnerable than larger corporations.
In this blog, we are going to explore the top cyber security challenges facing Hull SMEs along with some actions you can take to protect your business from these threats.
Phishing is still one of the most common, effective forms of cyber attack. It involves sending fraudulent emails or messages with a link to make you visit a scam website, or even an attachment that tricks the user into divulging sensitive information such as login details.
The risk of this type of cyber attack is usually heightened by limited training and awareness among staff members. Just one employee clicking on a malicious link can put the business into serious danger – not only leading to data breaches, but potentially financial losses too. Email filtering is one of the best ways to prevent phishing emails reaching inboxes in the first place. Staff should also be encouraged to report any suspicious emails too.
This is where cyber criminals prevent businesses from accessing their own devices and the data stored on it, by encrypting your files. They will then demand a ransom for its release, so almost like holding your business hostage. These attacks can be devastating for SMEs that heavily rely on their digital infrastructure.
The best cyber security prevention is to invest in robust endpoint protection solutions to detect and prevent ransomware from occurring in the first place. Data should also be regularly backed up and stored securely so it can be restored quickly to the last possible time before the ransomware attack happened.
Many SMEs still use weak or reused passwords which just make the job of cyber criminals really easy! Often default credentials are used on important systems, leaving them exposed and open for attack. Just one single compromised password can give attackers exactly what they need – access to sensitive systems which they can then breach.
As well as encouraging all employees to use strong, unique passwords across your internal systems, we always advise businesses to implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of password protection to their systems. Password management tools are also a great way to store and generate secure credentials.
Using outdated software can be a huge cyber security challenge and risk for Hull SMEs, as cyber criminals often exploit vulnerabilities in unpatched software. This can give them access to networks and data which can be disastrous in the wrong hands. The main risk is using legacy systems that no longer receive security patches, leaving the software vulnerable to attack.
Establishing a regular patch management process is the best way to protect your business, ensuring all systems and software are updated regularly. If you are struggling with time and resources, outsourcing this to a managed IT service provider like Reality Solutions means that updates and maintenance are all handled for you.
SMEs often rely on third-party systems for things like cloud storage, payment processing and more. Generally, these systems help to improve operational efficiency but there are some risks associated with them that you need to be aware of. If a third-party provider experiences a breach with their systems, it can filter down through to your business too.
When engaging with third-party providers it is key to carry out due diligence and make sure there are security measures in place in any contracts you sign. Limiting third-party access to sensitive information is also key, only grant permission when strictly necessary.
It goes without saying that the shift towards remote working has changed the way businesses operate, and security has become a major challenge for SMEs. Employees accessing company systems from personal devices or unsecure networks can expose sensitive data to cyber criminals.
For any business with staff working remotely, even with a hybrid model, there are a few cyber security measures that should be implemented:
Regulations like GDPR mean that businesses have strict guidelines on how to protect customer data, and any breach of these rules will result in hefty fines and usually reputational damage as a consequence. For SMEs, staying compliant can be challenging due to limited resources but the best thing to do is regularly review compliance requirements that are relevant to your industry. If you aren’t sure, then don’t be afraid to ask for help from legal or cyber security professionals to ensure your business is meeting all the required regulatory standards.
Cyber security is always a concern for Hull SMEs, but with the right strategies and support, businesses can significantly reduce their risk. It is important to remember that cyber security isn’t just something you implement once and forget about, it is an ongoing process. Stay vigilant, keep learning and don’t be afraid to seek professional guidance. If you would like more information on how Reality Solutions can help your Yorkshire or Hull business with these cyber security challenges, contact us today.
*This article contains general information in order to assist all of our customers and is meant for guidance only – there are no guarantees that the information we provide will be suitable for your particular needs. If you require specific assistance, we recommend that you seek professional guidance on your individual circumstances. Reality Solutions are in no way responsible for any loss or damage arising from any information contained within our articles.