What is Cyber Security?

Cyber security comprises technologies, processes and controls that are designed to protect systems, networks and data from cyber attacks.

Effective cyber security reduces the risk of cyber attacks, and protects organisations and individuals from the unauthorised exploitation of systems, networks and technologies.

What are the consequences of a cyber attack?

Cyber attacks can disrupt and cause considerable financial and reputational damage to even the most resilient organisation.

If you suffer a cyber attack, you stand to lose assets, reputation and business, and potentially face regulatory fines and litigation – as well as the costs of remediation.

The UK government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2017 found that the average cost of a cyber security breach for a large business is £19,600 and for a small to medium-sized business is £1,570.

The cyber threats organisations face

Although larger organisations tend to have a realistic appreciation of the cyber threats they face, many small to medium-sized enterprises are unclear about the ways in which they’re vulnerable, and as many as 45% mistakenly think they’re not a viable target.

In fact, all Internet-facing organisations are at risk of attack. And it’s not a question of if you’ll be attacked, but when you’ll be attacked. The majority of cyber attacks are automated and indiscriminate, exploiting known vulnerabilities rather than targeting specific organisations. Your organisation could be being breached right now and you might not even be aware.

Below we have compiled a series of videos from the Dorset Police Cyber Crime team outlining the threats and consequences small and medium businesses face from cyber attacks:

Phishing Emails

Phishing emails are still catching people out and these emails are becoming better crafted. This should help get the message out to your staff. Remember to stay alert to these types of attack and watch the video for all the prevention advice you need.

USB Drives

USBs are in everyday use in most businesses especially small and medium businesses, but do you really know their risks? Sadly, USB drives can have devastating effects to company networks and are a standard threat vector. They should be treated with caution so watch the video to learn more about how to prevent such a threat.

Ransomware

Ransomware is being deployed on businesses and organisations of all sizes at an alarming rate. Whether you want to know more about it or how to defend your business from it, watch the tutorial for all you need to know.

Public and Free WIFI

Public Wi-Fi is one of the biggest misconceptions in cyber security. It is called public for a reason and anyone with the right tools can see what you’re doing. Even grab your password. Stay safe!

Distributed Denial of Service Attacks (DDOS)

Distributed Denial of Service attacks are on the increase. Whether you want to learn what they are or find out prevention advice to mitigate the risk, then watch this video for all you need to know about a DDOS.

CEO Fraud and Social Engineering

CEO Fraud (or “Whaling”) is on the the increase and an incredibly well thought out offence that we need to be aware of in business. Social Engineering is also being used at an alarming rate which is a real danger to SMEs

Viruses and Malware

This video describes the issues created by viruses in businesses and mentions the vulnerability of USB memory sticks which gets overlooked by many small businesses.

The Insider Threat

Every business has is at risk from within it’s own organisation and the threats are currently bigger than ever. Whether it is a disgruntled ex employee or simply a member of staff that has clicked on a link, make sure you think about your own company.

Further Resources

You can find our more about Cloudserve’s battle against Cyber Threats and how we can help secure your business on our website here.

For further information on the Dorset Cyber Alliance or Dorset Police Cyber Crime Team please visit their site here or find them on Twitter. Follow @DP_CyberCrime

If you think you are at risk of a cyber attack or require assistance with your ongoing cyber protection, please get in contact here.