Are you prepared for a cyber-attack?
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) ‘Would You Be Ready?’ online test asks questions to help SMEs assess if they are prepared for various incidents and it also provides tips on how to safeguard assets. NCSC highlights staggering statistics that ‘just under half (46%) of all businesses have identified at least one cyber security breach or attack in the last 12 months (38% micro-firms, 52% small firms and 66% medium firms)’.
Action Fraud’s 24/7 live hotline on 0300 123 2040 is also highlighted and this can be used where there is a live attack. Action Fraud state that ‘A live attack is one that is ongoing, that is still affecting your system and your ability to work and there is an opportunity for law enforcement to stop the attack and/or secure evidence that will assist an investigation.
For example:
- cyber criminals have accessed your network and stolen personal information about your customers and are demanding payment for its safe return. This is also known as hacking extortion.
- your website is being flooded with traffic – customers are not able to access it as a result. This is called a distributed denial of service (DDOS) attack.’
As highlighted previously, guidance on cyber-security is an essential element of protecting data. Many businesses have sought certification under the Cyber Essentials scheme. The scheme has the additional benefit of demonstrating to clients (or prospective clients) that you take the protection of their data seriously.
NCSC guidance includes the following:
Article from ACCA In Practice