Business Gateway has announced a new webinar with the Scottish Business Resilience Centre (SBRC) to empower firms to be ‘cyber-aware’ and ensure their online security.

Taking place virtually on Wednesday, 30th November at 1 pm, the webinar will be hosted by Sarah Johnson, Director at Scottish growth marketing company, IndigoLeap.

Johnson will be joined by SBRC Mike Smith, Cyber Incident Response & Threat Intelligence Manager at SBRC and Kristie Steele, Cyber Community Lead.

The hour-long session will offer insights into the security landscape in Scotland, outlining how to recognise potential threats and what to do to ensure businesses are secure. The panel will explore the most common threats currently online, the impact of being victim to an attack and top tips for monitoring digital channels.

In addition to the webinar, Business Gateway also offers cyber resilience toolkits and an online tutorial which provides the basics of cyber security, building business resilience, and signpost tips on how to avoid data breaches.

Smith commented: “For many small businesses across Scotland, protecting their business from cyber-attacks may not be a priority due to expertise or resource.

“However, being cyber aware is crucial for all businesses, and it is important that steps are taken to safeguard all types of data against loss.”

Hugh Lightbody, Chief Officer at Business Gateway, added: “We recognise now more than ever that businesses are stretched, focusing on operations as they continue to bounce back post-pandemic and amid the cost of living crisis.

“We hope that this webinar provides a valuable platform to understand how cyber-attacks can occur, and why it is so important for businesses to protect their business in the current climate.”

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Business Gateway said it also works closely with Police Scotland’s Cybercrime Harm Prevention team, ensuring its service and advice reflect expert insights.

The below tips and strategies have been identified by Gordy Macdonald, Cybercrime Protection, Incident Support and Training Officer at Police Scotland, as a checklist for Scottish businesses this National Computer Security Day.

Five practical tips to avoid a cyber-attack:

1. Equip your staff with knowledge on how to identify Phishing attacks. Ensure staff are able to identify suspicious emails and are empowered to deal with these situations.
2. Ensure your software is up to date. All software must be up-to-date, and all devices must be protected with the most up-to-date operating version from its iSP.
3. Apply for Cyber Essentials certification. This Government back scheme will help protect your business against a range of cyber attacks.
4. Install authentication methods to all systems and devices. Utilise 2sv or Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) for all devices and online accounts to provide protection from unwarranted access.
5. Frequently Back up your Data. Ransomware is the most prolific means used by Cyber criminals, by backing up data systems can be reset and resume more easily.

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