This blog highlights key cyber threats, including phishing, ransomware, and DoS attacks, and offers practical steps to protect your business. Featuring expert cyber security speakers available at Prime Performers who can provide an insight into cyber security.
Cyber Security Month: Protecting Your Business in the Digital Age
October is Cyber Security Awareness Month, which makes it a great time to think about how secure your business is online. With cyber-attacks on the rise, it’s important to be proactive and take steps to protect your business. From phishing emails to ransomware, cyber threats are everywhere, but with a few practical strategies, you can help keep your business safe.
Why Cyber Security is Essential for Every Business
According to the Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2024, 50% of UK businesses reported experiencing a cyber-attack in the past year. And it’s not just big corporations that are at risk—small businesses are just as vulnerable. No matter the size of your company, keeping your digital information secure is essential to avoid costly disruptions and protect sensitive data.
Common Cyber Threats
Here are some of the most common threats businesses face:
- Phishing Attacks – Fraudulent emails that trick employees into giving away sensitive information.
- Ransomware – Malicious software that locks you out of your data until you pay a ransom.
- DoS and DDoS Attacks – Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks flood your systems with traffic, causing websites or services to become unavailable to users, disrupting business operations.
How to Strengthen Your Business Against Cyber Threats
Cyber security is about more than just having the latest tech. It’s about combining technology, processes, and people. Here are some simple but effective steps you can take:
1. Employee Training: The First Line of Defence
One of the biggest risks to any business is human error. That’s why regular training is crucial. Teach your staff how to spot phishing emails and stay safe online. This can help reduce the chances of a cyber-attack succeeding.
Tip: Interactive workshops or a cyber security expert can help make training more engaging and tailored to your business.
2. Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication
Weak passwords make it easy for hackers to gain access. Encourage staff to use complex, unique passwords for each account. Adding Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) can provide an extra layer of security, requiring more than just a password to log in.
Tip: Consider using password management tools to help your team create and store secure passwords.
3. Keep Software Up to Date
Outdated software is a prime target for cyber criminals. Make sure your systems are regularly updated to include the latest security patches.
Tip: Automating updates and scheduling regular security checks can help keep everything running smoothly.
4. Encrypt Your Data
Data encryption ensures that even if a breach occurs, the information remains unreadable without the right key. This is especially important for protecting sensitive customer information.
Tip: Double-check that your encryption policies cover both stored and transmitted data.
5. Backup Your Data
Regular backups are essential, especially in case of a ransomware attack. If you have secure backups, you can restore your systems without having to pay any ransom.
Tip: Store backups offsite or in the cloud and test your recovery process regularly.
6. Mitigate DoS and DDoS Attacks
To prevent your website or services from being overwhelmed by DoS or DDoS attacks, invest in network security solutions like firewalls or a content delivery network (CDN) that can help distribute traffic and absorb potential attacks.
Tip: Regularly monitor your website traffic for any unusual spikes that could signal an impending attack.
7. Consider Cyber Insurance
While cyber insurance won’t stop attacks, it can help cover the costs of recovering from one. This can include everything from restoring data to managing your business’s reputation.
Tip: Look for a policy that covers the main risks your business faces, such as ransomware or data breaches.
Get Expert Help with Cyber Security
Bringing in a cyber security expert can really help your business stay ahead of potential threats. At Prime Performers, we have a range of speakers who specialise in cyber security and can provide valuable insights. Some of our top speakers include:
Jamie Woodruff - A leading ethical hacker and cyber security specialist, known for uncovering vulnerabilities in platforms like Facebook. Jamie offers insights into system security and AI strategy.
Stephanie Hare – Author of Technology Is Not Neutral, Stephanie speaks on AI, cyber security, and technology ethics, bringing academic rigour and expertise to her engaging talks.
James Poulter – CEO of Vixen Labs, James focuses on AI-driven marketing and the future of work, offering practical advice on emerging technologies and innovation cultures.
Creating a Secure Business Environment
Strengthening your business’s defences against cyber threats isn’t just about the latest technology. It’s about building a culture of security where everyone plays a part. By training your employees, keeping systems updated, and bringing in expert advice, you can help protect your business from the ever-changing cyber threat landscape.
This Cyber Security Awareness Month, take steps to protect your business. Whether through regular training or bringing in a cyber security speaker, now is the time to secure your business.
For more information on booking a Digital, Technology and Science speaker to present or offer motivational insights, visit Prime Performers today.