When did you last complete your LifeUpdates?

Despite the perception the big cyber media stories might paint - it’s not just large global companies that are at risk of a cyber security breach. The common misconception by small business owners is that their business is ‘not worth attacking’. In actual fact, the government’s Cyber Security Breaches survey revealed that 42% of micro/small businesses identified one breach or attack in the last 12 months.  

The irony is while the risks of a cyber attack are relatively high for SMEs, the steps they could take to protect themselves are actually really simple, such as installing the latest software and app updates as soon as they become available which can protect a business’s devices from the majority of cyber attacks.

Cyber Aware’s #LifeUpdates campaign aims to encourage people to take action on the simple tasks we all put off doing – this is as true in our businesses as it is in our personal lives. There are always things we put off, even though doing them would be to our benefit. If we tick off simple tasks (from installing the latest app updates, dealing with tax returns or updating our contacts) we can potentially save ourselves a lot of stress, time – and potentially money.

Updating your business plan and financial statements are important #LifeUpdates that should never be put off – but so are software and app updates. They don’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. You can even install new updates during your lunchbreak when your device is plugged into a power socket or set them to automatically install as soon as they become available. For more advice on simple ways to be more secure online, visit the Cyber Aware website.

For more cyber security guidance and tips visit NCSC and Cyber Essentials to help guard you against the most common cyber threats for SMEs.