Cyber security is a term that has become increasingly popular in today’s digital-lead society. You may hear it often, whether it’s within a business environment, or promoting the importance of keeping your personal information secure online. You may have heard it, but do you know why it’s important?

The simple reason is that without cyber security, your personal and business information, software and devices, data and more would be vulnerable to cyber security attacks. This can include viruses, malware and theft of data.

An example of a cyber security attack on a business was in 2018 when Facebook saw 29 million personal users’ information lost through internal security flaws. This included the theft of personal data from Facebook’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg. [Source: aspersky.co.uk]

As a business owner or professional, cyber security should be a priority for three key reasons:

• You can reduce the risks associated to growing cyber security threats. Cyber security attacks can happen to any business or individual and at any scale. These attacks are constantly evolving and changing so it’s important to keep on top of how to maximise your security and prevent threats.
• Data breaches can cause substantial damage to your business, both financially and in terms of reputation. Customers and investors are less likely to partner with a company that is seen to have minimal security measures in place and is prone to cyber attacks.
• Business disruption can occur as a direct result of a cyber attack. For example, access to critical files and systems may be blocked until your business pays a ransom. Alternatively, if data is stolen, your business would need to spend time identifying missing data and altering the missing parties.

What can be done, as a business, to maximise security and prevent cyber threats to your business? There’s lots that can be done through the installation of software, securing Wi-Fi networks and repairing vulnerabilities within the company. However, this can be time consuming and requires knowledge.

Upskilling an existing member of your team to provide advanced cyber security for your business is a great way to provide maximum security that can be kept up-to-date with cyber criminals.

The Digital Careers Upskill Programme offers businesses and employed individuals in Greater Manchester digital training in 3 areas: Cyber Security, Software Development and Data Analysis, with three key benefits:

• It’s fully-funded through Greater Manchester Combined Authority and the European Social Fund, which means you don’t pay anything
• It’s flexible so it can work around you and your commitments
• It’s a Level 3 Microsoft-accredited course

This course will provide businesses and individuals with the necessary skills to maximise security and take their career aspirations to new heights. Fill out the contact form here and a member of the team will contact you with more information.