Cybercrime – Is your workplace vulnerable?
Looking back at 2024, cybercrime in our digital world is no longer just a distant threat—it has become an everyday reality, especially for organisations handling sensitive data.
The landscape has shifted rapidly.
Recent trends reveal that cyberattacks are not only growing in number but also in complexity. In the UK, on average, a new attack occurs every 44 seconds. This is no longer an issue exclusive to large corporations; mid-sized firms are equally at risk, with nearly half reporting a breach or attack in the past year.
No organisation is too small or too specialised to be overlooked. If you manage valuable data, you’re on the radar. Between April 2023 and April 2024, 74% of large UK businesses and 45% of medium-sized businesses experienced at least one cyber incident. Over half (52%) of private sector organisations reported falling victim to at least one cyber-attack in the last five years. What’s even more concerning is the sharp rise in attacks during 2024—a nearly 50% increase compared to 2023.
What’s driving the surge in attacks?
This surge has been largely driven by two key developments: a rise in state-sponsored attacks* from hostile nations like Russia, and the growing use of artificial intelligence by cybercriminals, enabling faster, more sophisticated methods of intrusion.
* refers to a cyberattack carried out or backed by a government or one of its agencies usually aimed at advancing the political, economic, military, or strategic interests of the sponsoring country.
Source: Check Point Software Technologies
The real cost of cybercrime?
It hits hardest on the bottom line. In just the last five years, UK businesses have lost a staggering £44 billion to cyber-attacks. Globally, the scale is even more shocking. If cybercrime were a country, it would rank as the world’s third-largest economy—right behind the US and China—causing an estimated £8.5 trillion in damage each year. (Cybercrime The World’s Third Largest Economy After the U.S. and China)
Which organisations are at risk?
No one is immune to cyber threats. Without proactive measures, businesses remain exposed—often unaware of the vulnerabilities that cybercriminals are ready to exploit. Yet, the reality is concerning: nearly 25% of organisations have never tested their backups, and more than 40% don’t provide regular cybersecurity training to their teams. Don’t become part of that statistic—take action now.
If your organisation handles sensitive personal information and/or financial transactions, operating without strong security systems and properly trained staff is simply too risky. This isn’t just about protecting data. It’s about safeguarding your reputation and maintaining the trust your customers/clients place in you. Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, and leadership must set the tone from the top.
To reduce your risk, it’s essential that your employees are well-informed, your cybersecurity measures are robust, and your infrastructure is up to date.
Practical Tips to Keep Your IT Environment Secure
- Stay Updated
Continuously update your IT systems with the latest cybersecurity patches and tools to protect against emerging threats.
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. (Using MFA where possible adds an extra layer of protection, making it harder for unauthorized users to access your data.
- Stay Alert to Phishing Attempts
Cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated. Be cautious with emails or messages that ask for personal information, particularly those that claim nto be ‘urgent’ or threatening in nature. Don’t click suspicious links or download unexpected attachments. Check sender email addresses carefully.
- Secure Your Devices
Make sure all company and personal devices used for work are protected with strong passwords, antivirus software, and encryption.
- Be Careful on Public Wi-Fi
Avoid accessing sensitive data or logging into company accounts on public Wi-Fi. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for secure connections.
- Use Company Devices Responsibly
Don’t install unauthorised software or plug in unknown USBs. Avoid using work devices for personal browsing or downloads.
- Lock Devices When Not in Use
Always lock your computer or phone when stepping away. Set automatic screen locks on all devices.
- Dispose of Data Securely
Shred paper documents with sensitive information. Use secure deletion methods for digital files.
- Back Up Regularly
We ensure your data is backed up regularly so it can be restored quickly in case of a breach.
- Report Suspicious Activity
If you notice anything unusual, report it straight away. Early detection can prevent a minor issue from becoming a major one.
- Stay Informed
Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and staying up to date is key to staying protected. Keep an eye on the latest security trends, threats, and best practices, and regularly review your cybersecurity policies to ensure they remain effective.