16 January 2015

BPIF looks at addressing cyber security to protect our sectors future

Recent reports have highlighted both employee and consumer concerns over online security and the possible damaging consequences. With weekly high profile hacks hitting the headlines how do you protect your company?

Research Agency GFK Group has carried out a survey of employees from small and medium sized businesses - 'The State of the Small Business Employee Report'. The research found that 87% of those surveyed felt at risk of becoming a victim of identity theft or other cyber crime, while using work computer systems and devices.

Research has also highlighted a lack of documented policies governing the use of company-owned IT devices and the use of computers in the workplace. Only 53% of employees at SMEs that have IT support as staff or on contract, said that their company had policies in place, and to make things even worse, 24% of those who do have policies in place admitted to violating them. This has worsened due to the initiative of  people using  their own IT equipment in the workplace; from USB drives, personal mobile phones and tablet connected to the corporate email system and company Wi-Fi.

UK Government research has suggested that consumers are more likely to shop online with corporate companies and their brands, as they feel safer using their websites compared to SMEs' websites. In all, 59% of those surveyed agreed. But crucially, 82% said they would buy more online from SMEs, if those businesses were better at showing how well protected they are from cyber crime.

The 'Cyber Streetwise' campaign has been launched to help build awareness of the importance of implementing and following processes for online security. The government hopes to encourage SMEs to protect themselves from future online risks.

Further research has shown that only:

• 46% of SMEs regularly monitor their IT systems for breaches
• 48% of SMEs restrict access to their IT networks
• 58% of SMEs regularly use complex access passwords
• 66% of SMEs regularly download the latest software updates
• 46% of SMEs control the use of USB storage devices

The Cyber Streetwise website hosts a range of interactive resources for SME owners and staff. The site gives impartial advice on protecting businesses online, including an online health-checker for companies to assess their cyber security knowledge and then receive tailored tips and downloads for improving online security. So, if you haven't taken your online security too seriously to date - take advantage of the website!

BPIF members are able to take advantage of a free IT security health check, if you are interested in taking up this offer please contact Stewart Watkins; [email protected].