Yesterday morning, the Government published the 2017 Cyber Security Breaches survey which revealed almost half of UK firms were hit by a cyber breach in the past 12 months. After these shocking results, the government are encouraging both large and small businesses to ensure their data is safeguarded from cyber threats.
What were the results of the survey?
- The study found that almost seven in ten large businesses had experienced a breach.
- The average cost for each business was around £20,000 but some cases reached millions.
- Online businesses who hold electronic personal data were found to be much more likely to suffer an attack than those that do not (51 per cent compared to 37 per cent)
- Firms are increasingly concerned about data protection
- With GDPR set to launch next year, the need to protect customer data is the top reason for firms investing in cyber security (head to our website to read more about GDPR)
- While the high profile cases are usually blue chip companies, SME’s can also be hit particularly hard, one in five reported they took more than a day to recover
What were the most common attacks?
- Fraudulent phishing emails – These are usually sent from a supposedly ‘credible’ source.
- They attempt to coax users into giving out sensitive information like passwords and bank details or to clicking on attachments loaded with malicious software like ransomware and malware
- Phishing emails were identified as the most disruptive intrusion
- A large proportion of these attacks could have been prevented using the Government-backed scheme Cyber Essentials, we are one of the few organisations who are able to certify your business within the midlands.
Ciaran Martin, CEO of the National Cyber Security Centre, said:
“UK businesses must treat cyber security as a top priority if they want to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the UK’s vibrant digital economy.
“The majority of successful cyber attacks are not that sophisticated but can cause serious commercial damage. By getting the basic defences right, businesses of every size can protect their reputation, finances and operating capabilities.
“Cyber Essentials, technical advice on CiSP and regularly updated guidance on the NCSC website offers companies, big and small, simple steps that can significantly reduce the risk of a successful attack.”
Last year the government announced they were planning to invest £1.9 billion into a new cyber security strategy. This survey is part of their plan to transform cyber security in the UK and to ensure that we are protected from online threats.
The Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2017 is available at www.gov.uk/government/statistics/cyber-security-breaches-survey-2017
