Information security expert Hantec Systems, warns that hundreds of businesses across the UK may be at risk of cyber attacks because they lack preventative security measures.
Based on the Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2022 commissioned by the Government, only 23% of businesses have a formal security strategy to prevent cyberattacks such as phishing, malware, or ransomware.
According to Hannah Wallis of Hantec Systems, companies without preventative measures are leaving themselves open to cyber attacks, particularly now that many employees work from home or carry their own devices to work.
There are severe implications for thousands of businesses that could face a cyber attack including loss of personal and business data, loss of money and disruption to trading.
Three-quarters of UK businesses said they had experienced a cyber attack in the past 12 months, according to Cyber Security Breaches’ survey.
Hannah said it was vital every company has a formal security strategy in place to prevent cyber attacks, protect its staff and its most valuable assets.
“We are urging business leaders to implement security measures into their business. A cyber attack can have detrimental consequences for businesses, particularly small to medium sized firms. It can also be very scary for the employees involved. The Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2022 highlighted that not enough businesses are protecting themselves, and as compliance consultants we feel it is our duty to make people aware of the risks of cyber attacks.
“Many people and business owners think they will see a cyber attack coming and know the signs to look out for. But without a formal cyber security strategy in place a business could be increasing its risk of an attack.
“Research found that only 8% of businesses have a Cyber Essentials certification which is critical to reducing the risk of an attack. Act now before it is too late.”