why cyber security is important for business.

Shocking statistics show that unfortunately, over 80% of UK organisations have been hacked in recent years. As ransomware becomes more advanced and hackers become smarter with technology, how can your business ensure it doesn't also fall victim to cyber attacks?

As you know, businesses at all levels are responsible for a lot of important information, which is why cyber security is critical.

Otherwise, a data breach would put all that information at risk—at the expense of the business's clients and employees. There have been many newsworthy examples of organisations at the receiving end of a cyber attack in recent years. In September 2018, British Airways announced that there was a data breach and as many 500,000 customer records were stolen. Just recently, Australian telecom giant Optus confirmed that nearly 2.1 million of its current and former customers suffered a leak of their personal information and at least one form of identification number as a result of a data breach late last month. 

With attacks at this scale posing risks to your business, it’s crucial that you must install strict cyber security measures and ensure you have the right skilled professionals protecting your data.

If you're still unsure about the importance of cyber security, keep reading. Below, we'll explain common cyber security threats and the benefits of investing in professional cyber security services.

cyber security threats

As people's reliance on technology continues to grow, so does their vulnerability to its security flaws. No business is exempt, and those who underestimate their need for cyber security tend to be easier targets. 

Here are some threats, key terms and pieces of software that you may or may not already be familiar with, and need to stay front of mind:

1. spyware

Spyware is malware that allows hackers to gather information about other people's online activities. This is done by secretly sending data from infected hard drives. With spyware, hackers can glean sensitive information about the business's clients, employees, and general operations.

2. ransomware

Another type of malware, ransomware, blocks access to the infected computer's system. Access is only restored when the sum of money is paid. Ransomware attacks have dealt major financial blows to many businesses, regardless of their size or level of success. CyberEdge investigated the rate at which companies were hit with ransomware attacks - research from the ninth annual Cyberthreat Defence Report – a comprehensive review of the perceptions of 1,200 IT security professionals representing 17 countries and 19 industries revealed that nearly three quarters (73%) of UK organisations dealt with a ransomware attack, a 15% rise on the previous year.

3. deep web

The deep web is a general term for contents of the internet that aren't indexed on the usual web-search engines. It's not inherently malicious, but many users take advantage of the anonymity of the deep web. There are also many hackers for hire in that space that will hack businesses for the right price.

4. cryptocurrency

Once cryptocurrency is stolen, there's essentially no way to get it back. So if you're interested in involving cryptocurrency or NFTs in your business, cyber security is critical.

Hackers will also introduce malware that uses the infected device to cryptomine, which is the process of creating a new cryptocurrency. This process is also called cryptojacking and will overextend your devices' wear and damage if left unchecked.

benefits of professional cyber security services

Cyber security is an essential component of a successful business. But you may be unsure about the ideal standard for your company's cyber security. The truth is, no business requires excellent cyber security, regardless of the industry or size.

1. optimised security

Of course, the most significant improvement produced by professional cyber security is optimised protection. Although you may understand the importance of cyber security, you may not understand where to start as a non-expert.

It's also challenging to juggle cyber security and administrative duties without professional help. Attempting to do so could result in subpar security. But leaving it up to the professionals will ensure industry-standard security.

2. effective training

Cyber security training, even at beginner level, is needed for everyone in the office. This isn't just about using technology. It's about learning safe, cyber-secure practices, so employees don't widen external access to sensitive information.

Teaching employees how to create strong passwords and turn on their devices isn't difficult. But it's best to leave it to cyber security professionals when it comes to nuanced cyber security practices. That way, your employees are better equipped to protect the business's information. 

3. up-to-date protection

Installing an antivirus program isn't enough for your business to be protected. Sure, it's adequate for your personal devices, but the stakes are much higher when you're managing a company.

That's why you need a professional who continually modernises your business's cyber security measures. After all, adequate cyber security encompasses more than a few pieces of software. It's backed by years of training, experience, and a dedicated focus on the cyber security industry.

4. improved digital performance

Better digital security will improve a workplace's digital performance. That's because cyber security experts are also general tech experts. They'll understand which tech innovations are worth investing in upgrading your business's operations.

Not only that, but state-of-the-art, smoothly running technology can utilise the latest cyber security tools on the market. Therefore, it will also be better at improving your business's cyber security.

5. better workplace productivity

Poor cybersecurity can affect the technology's efficiency. But beyond slow computers, constantly running into cyber security issues can frustrate workers and distract them from their work.

Frustrated and demotivated workers may not fully engage with their job. So relieve their burden by upgrading their work devices' cyber security. They'll be better focused on their job, improving your business's productivity.

6. legal compliance

Businesses can be sued if their negligence resulted in employees' or clients' personal information getting leaked. So for legal compliance, polish your business's security measures.

Otherwise, your business won't only have its name besmirched. You'll also likely have to pay legal fees, which could affect your business's budget. GDPR compliance, of course remains of paramount importance:

 

7. personalised protection

Every business needs cyber security protection. But every business may differ in its security needs. Luckily, most professional cyber security experts are willing to work with companies of all sizes to get them the protection they need.

This highly benefits newer or smaller businesses, which may not have the funds for the most ultramodern technologies. Instead, as long as they're transparent about their budget and concerns, most businesses can get professional cyber security.

invest in cyber security expertise today

Online cyber attacks are constantly evolving, so your business's cyber security measures should too. Once they do, businesses can continue to maintain consumers' trust. They can also secure their own longevity.

At Randstad, we understand the importance of cyber security for businesses. Randstad Technologies has more than 40 years' experience and a database of around 250,000 qualified IT and tech professionals. Our sector knowledge and dedicated team of tech recruiters work closely with clients to refer them to some of the best cyber security professionals in the industry. 

If you need cyber security expertise, we would be happy to have a conversation around how we can assist.