Cyber Attacks Threaten SMEs

Small businesses are being encouraged to tighten up their security amid research that revealed that cyber attacks on businesses have increased over the last year.

The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) said that some attacks cause over £1 million worth of damage.<!–more–>

Their research showed that small businesses are increasingly at risk, with 87 percent experiencing a security breach last year, which is an increase of 10 percent from the previous year. The average cost to SMEs was between £35,000 and £65,000.

The government is responding by offering funding of up to £5,000 to firms to help them improve their computer security.

Universities and science minister David Willets said:

“Keeping electronic information safe and secure is vital to a business’s bottom line.”

“Companies are more at risk than ever of having their cyber security compromised, in particular small businesses, and no sector is immune from attack. But there are simple steps that can be taken to prevent the majority of incidents.”

Ricky Steedman

Ricky worked as an Investigator in the Inland Revenue for over 20 years before founding Steedman & Company in 1987, giving him the experience and knowledge that enabled him to help so many clients over the years.

His appearance on a Channel 4 television programme about the inside workings of Revenue and Customs was watched by 4.1m which sealed his status as one of the most highly respected tax consultants to ever work in Scotland.

Ricky led all tax investigation and COP 9 cases, using his extensive knowledge to help people reach a positive resolution to their situation.

Ricky passed away suddenly and unexpectedly in June 2022 after leaving his indelible mark on the company he founded and headed for over 35 years.