Cybersecurity can sometimes feel like a problem only big business, government departments, or tech giants need to worry about. But in reality, small businesses across the UK are regularly targeted by cybercriminals. According to the UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey from last year, nearly half of small firms experienced some form of cyber-attack in the last 12 months.
The challenge for many smaller companies is: ‘how can you improve your defences without breaking the bank, or without creating friction with staff’.
Start with the basics: passwords and multi-factor authentication
Weak or reused passwords are still one of the biggest ways criminals gain access. Encourage staff to use a password manager so they can generate strong, unique passwords without having to memorise them.
Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. Microsoft typically push this but look at other systems like Finance packages, CRMs etc. MFA adds an extra layer of security for free, and it’s one of the most cost-effective steps you can take.
Keep devices and software up to date:
Out-of-date software is a gift to attackers because it often contains unpatched security holes. Ensure automatic updates are switched on for Windows, MS Office, browsers, and other applications. Even something as simple as updating your router firmware can close vulnerabilities.
Train your team to spot threats:
Most attacks begin with human error. Often someone clicking a malicious link in a phishing email is a start of an attack. Basic cyber awareness training can pay for itself many times over.
It can take just 10 minutes a month to start getting awareness in your team.
Secure your data with backup and recovery:
Ransomware is one of the fastest-growing threats to businesses. If you can’t access your data, you can’t trade. Cloud backup solutions are affordable, and they give you peace of mind that even if your systems are locked, your business can recover. Plus by using a provider you have support on hand to get you back running.
Remember that Microsoft 365 doesn’t provide a backup service too. It’s a common misconception but in reality, Microsoft operates on a “shared responsibility” model. Using an independent backup service ensures that accidental deletions, malicious insiders, or ransomware won’t leave you with data loss.
Become Cyber Essentials Certified:
The UK Government’s Cyber Essentials scheme is a cost-effective way to improve your security and demonstrate to clients that you take cyber seriously. Certification starts from just a few hundred pounds, and the check provides a rounded and solid foundation of best practices.
Cybersecurity doesn’t have to mean huge budgets or enterprise-level tools. By focusing on the basics such as strong authentication, updates, staff training, and proper backups, small businesses can build resilience against most common threats.
Taking these steps now not only protects your data and reputation, it also makes your business a safer partner for customers, suppliers, and staff alike.