Protect your business from cyberattack

If you’re holding customer data then you need to make sure it’s secure, so keeping your password as pa55word won’t hack it (although others might). Here’s how to get on top of your online security

It’s easy to think cybersecurity is just for large businesses, but almost 75% of small businesses are vulnerable and don’t have the expertise to withstand a cyberattack. If Microsoft, one of the biggest tech companies in the world, can come under fire, then we all can. And if that doesn’t scare you into doing something, nothing will.

Cybersecurity is the act of protecting electronic devices and online services from theft or damage by unscrupulous individuals. This includes unauthorised access to laptops, computers, phones and tablets. You may, for example, have an online booking system for your customers or take online payments which involves collecting data such as credit card details – information that’s vulnerable to cyberattack and data breaches. Remember that most diagnostic equipment usually connects to the network and is very often overlooked.

Don’t give them your password Kenneth...

It doesn’t matter if you are a sole trader in a small garage or a large company with hundreds of employees, you must protect your business against cyberattack. This will not only benefit your business, but ensure you comply with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), since any form of customer data must be used in a way that complies with this regulation.

The UK GDPR applies to processing carried out by organisations operating