Cyber Security Consulting | How To Protect Your Business
In the digital age, with the rise of cyber threats, robust cybersecurity measures have become essential. Cybersecurity protects various digital assets from attacks, and as businesses become more reliant on technology, the importance of cybersecurity grows. Engaging in cybersecurity consulting can help businesses identify risks, implement security controls, and train employees.
Cybersecurity Challenges Businesses Face
Human Error: Often, the weakest link in the cybersecurity chain is human error. This can range from employees unknowingly downloading malicious software to not following password protocols.
Evolving Threats: Cyber threats, such as ransomware, are constantly evolving. In the UK alone, ransomware attacks have seen a 300% increase.
One way to improve a company’s cyber security posture is to engage in cyber security consultation. Cyber security consultants can help businesses identify and assess their cyber security risks, develop and implement appropriate security controls, and train employees on cyber security best practices. Cyber security consulting can be a valuable investment for businesses of all sizes, as it can help them reduce their risk of cyber-attacks and protect their valuable data.
The Benefits Of Cyber Security Consulting
- Increased cyber security awareness: Cyber security consultants can help businesses raise awareness of cyber security risks and best practices among employees.
- Improved cyber security posture: Cyber security consultants can help businesses identify and assess risks, develop and implement appropriate security controls, and train employees on best practices.
- Reduced risk of cyber attacks: Cyber security consultation can help businesses reduce their risk of cyber attacks by identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities.
- Enhanced customer trust: Customers are increasingly concerned about the security of their data. Cyber security consultation can help businesses demonstrate their commitment to data security and protect their customers’ trust.
The Importance of Cyber Security for Businesses
In the digital realm, safety extends beyond personal protection; it’s also crucial for businesses. Cyber security is not just about safeguarding sensitive data; it’s about preserving your company’s reputation, maintaining customer trust, and ensuring business continuity. With the rapid evolution of cyber threats, businesses must adopt a proactive rather than reactive approach. Staying ahead of the game in cyber security involves continuous learning, adapting to new technologies, implementing robust security measures, and conducting regular system audits.
Arc Systems’ Security Services To Combat Cyber Threats
Firewall: A robust firewall is the first line of defence against external threats. Arc Systems ensures that firewalls are effectively configured to block unauthorized access.
Sophos Anti Virus and MDR Monitoring: With threats constantly evolving, real-time monitoring is crucial. Arc Systems utilizes Sophos Anti Virus and MDR monitoring to detect and neutralise threats promptly.
Mimecast Email Filtering: Email is a common entry point for cyber threats. Arc Systems’ Mimecast Email Filtering ensures that malicious emails are intercepted before they reach the inbox.
Security Review: Arc Systems offers both free and paid security reviews. Their comprehensive IT Health Check, a part of their IT support package, identifies vulnerabilities in your IT setup, both externally and internally.
Awareness Training: Recognising that human error is a significant challenge, Arc Systems provides awareness training through Mimecast and KnowBe4, ensuring employees are equipped with the knowledge to prevent breaches.
Latest Cyber Security Threats in the UK
Cyber threats are not static; they continually evolve, becoming more sophisticated. UK businesses are at constant risk of cyber threats like their global counterparts. In 2023, one of the biggest threats to cyber security in any organisation comes from its employees. Human error is the leading cause of data and security breaches, responsible for over 90% of such incidents.
Some of the latest cyber security threats in the UK include:
- Ransomware: Ransomware is malware that encrypts a victim’s files and demands a ransom payment to decrypt them. Ransomware attacks have become increasingly common in recent years, and the UK is no exception. In 2022, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) reported that there had been a 300% increase in ransomware attacks in the UK.
- Phishing: Phishing is a type of social engineering attack in which attackers send emails or text messages that appear to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank or government agency. The emails or text messages often contain a link that, when clicked, takes the victim to a fake website that looks like the real one. Once the victim enters their personal information on the fake website, the attackers can steal it.
- Data breaches: Data breaches are incidents in which sensitive data is exposed to unauthorized individuals. Data breaches can occur through various methods, such as hacking, phishing, and employee negligence. In 2022, the NCSC reported that there had been a 20% increase in data breaches in the UK.
- Cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure include essential services such as power grids, water supplies, and transportation systems. Cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure can have a devastating impact on a country’s economy and security. In 2022, the NCSC warned of the increasing threat of cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure in the UK.
In addition to these threats, businesses in the UK are also at risk of several other cyber threats, such as:
- Malware: Malware is software that is designed to harm a computer system. Malware can be viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and other malicious programs.
- Zero-day attacks: Zero-day attacks exploit vulnerabilities in software that the software vendor is unaware of. Zero-day attacks are often difficult to defend against because no patch is available to fix the vulnerability.
- Supply chain attacks: Supply chain attacks are attacks that target the suppliers of a company. Attackers can access the company’s systems and data by attacking a supplier.
Implementing a comprehensive cyber security program is the best way to protect your business from cyber threats. A cyber security program should include the following elements:
- Employee training: Employees should be trained on cyber security best practices, such as how to spot phishing emails and create strong passwords.
- Technical controls: Technical controls, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems, can help to protect your systems from cyber attacks.
- Business continuity planning: Business continuity planning can help your business to recover from a cyber attack.
A comprehensive cyber security program can help protect your business from the latest cyber threats.
Best Practices for CyberSecurity
Given the evolving cyber threat landscape, businesses must adhere to the best practices for cyber security. Ensuring you have the latest security software is not a one-off task. As cyber-attacks become more sophisticated, your security measures need to keep pace. Secure your IT systems and website proactively. Implement strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and ensure your system software is always up to date.
Some of the best practices for cyber security include:
- Implement strong passwords: Passwords should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Passwords should not be reused across multiple accounts.
- Use two-factor authentication: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring you to enter a code from your phone in addition to your password.
- Keep your software up to date: Software updates often include security patches that can help to protect your systems from vulnerabilities.
- Be careful what you click on: Phishing emails are one of the most common ways attackers gain access to systems. Be careful about clicking on links in emails, especially if they are from unknown senders.
- Educate your employees: Employees should be trained on cyber security best practices, such as spotting phishing emails and creating strong passwords.
- Have a plan in place: In the event of a cyber attack, it is important to have a plan to respond. This plan should include steps for containing the attack, investigating the attack, and recovering from the attack.
By following these best practices, you can help to protect your business from cyber threats. In addition, there are some other best practices that businesses can implement to improve their cyber security posture:
- Segment your network: Segmenting means dividing it into smaller, more secure networks. This can help to contain an attack if it does occur.
- Use a firewall: A firewall is a device that helps to protect your network from unauthorized access.
- Use an intrusion detection system (IDS) or intrusion prevention system (IPS): An IDS or IPS can help to detect and prevent attacks.
- Back up your data: Regularly backing up your data can help you to recover from a data breach.
- Have a disaster recovery plan in place: A disaster recovery plan can help you to recover your systems and data in the event of a disaster.
Implementing these best practices will help businesses to improve their cyber security posture and protect themselves from cyber threats.
Improving Business Cyber Security Posture
To build a robust cyber security posture, businesses must stay informed, vigilant, and proactive. This is where Arc Systems, a leading cyber security company in the UK, comes into play. Arc Systems can provide expert advice and guidance to improve your cyber security posture. We are approved partners of top security software providers, including Microsoft Solutions Partner, Sophos Platinum Partner, and Veeam Cloud & Service Silver Partner. This allows us to offer tailored solutions to clients and provide best-in-class cyber security.
Some tips on how to improve your business’s cyber security posture include:
- Stay informed: One of the best ways to protect your business from cyber threats is to stay informed about the latest threats. You can do this by reading security blogs, subscribing to security newsletters, and attending security conferences.
- Be vigilant: It is important to be vigilant about potential cyber threats. This means knowing the signs of a cyber attack, such as phishing emails and malicious websites.
- Be proactive: You can take proactive steps to protect your business from cyber threats. This includes implementing security measures like firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems.
In addition to these tips, you can also improve your business’s cyber security posture by:
- Educating your employees: Employees are often the weakest link in a company’s security. Educating your employees about cyber threats and how to protect themselves is important.
- Having a plan in place: In the event of a cyber attack, it is important to have a plan to respond. This plan should include steps for containing the attack, investigating the attack, and recovering from the attack.
By following these tips, you can help to improve your business’s cyber security posture and protect yourself from cyber threats.
Arc Systems can help you to improve your business’s cyber security posture by providing expert advice and guidance. We can help you identify security risks, implement appropriate security controls, and train your employees on best practices. We can also help you to develop a plan to respond to a cyber attack.
If you are concerned about your business’s cyber security, please get in touch with Arc Systems today. We can help protect your business from cyber threats and keep your data safe.
Hiring a Cyber Security Company: Benefits
Hiring a cyber security company brings many advantages. You benefit from their expertise, cutting-edge technologies, and constant vigilance against threats. They can help you stay ahead in the cyber security game, ensuring your business is always protected and ready to face any cyber threats.
Some of the benefits of hiring a cybersecurity company include the following:
- Expertise: Cyber security companies have the expertise and experience to identify and mitigate cyber threats. They are constantly monitoring the latest threats and developing new security solutions.
- Technology: Cybersecurity companies have access to the latest security technologies. They can help you to implement security solutions that are appropriate for your business and your budget.
- Vigilance: Cyber security companies are constantly vigilant against cyber threats. They monitor your systems 24/7 for signs of attack.
- Peace of mind: Hiring a cyber security company can give you peace of mind knowing your business is protected from cyber threats.
- Cost-effectiveness: Hiring a cyber security company can be more cost-effective than implementing and maintaining a security program in-house.
- Time savings: Cybersecurity companies can save you time by taking care of the day-to-day tasks of managing your security program.
- Compliance: Cyber security companies can help you to comply with industry regulations, such as GDPR and PCI DSS.
Cyber Security Laws in the UK
The UK government takes cyber security seriously, with several laws in place to protect businesses and individuals from cyber threats. Complying with these laws is mandatory for UK businesses.
Some of the cyber security laws in the UK include:
- Data Protection Act 2018: The Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA 2018) is the UK’s primary data protection law. It sets out rules for how businesses can collect, store, and use personal data. The DPA 2018 also includes provisions for dealing with data breaches.
- Network and Information Systems Regulations 2018: The Network and Information Systems Regulations 2018 (NIS) are designed to protect critical national infrastructure from cyber threats. The NIS Regulations apply to various organizations, including businesses, government agencies, and critical infrastructure providers.
- Computer Misuse Act 1990: The Computer Misuse Act 1990 (CMA) is a criminal law that makes it illegal to commit a range of cyber offences, such as unauthorised access to computer systems, data theft, and denial-of-service attacks.
These are just a few of the cyber security laws in the UK. Businesses that fail to comply with these laws can face significant fines and other penalties. In addition to these laws, the UK government also has a number of initiatives in place to promote cyber security. These initiatives include:
- The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC): The NCSC is the UK’s national authority for cyber security. The NCSC advises and guides businesses and individuals on protecting themselves from cyber threats.
- The National Cyber Security Programme (NCSP): The NCSP is a government-funded program that provides funding and support to businesses and organizations to improve their cyber security.
Cyber Security Resources for UK Businesses
Various resources can help UK businesses enhance their cyber security posture. These include government initiatives, professional consulting services, and informative publications.
Some of the available cyber security resources for UK businesses include:
Government initiatives
- The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC): The NCSC is the UK’s national authority for cyber security. The NCSC advises and guides businesses and individuals on protecting themselves from cyber threats. Arc Systems is a Microsoft Gold Partner and a Sophos Platinum Partner, and we can help you to implement the NCSC’s guidance and recommendations.
- The National Cyber Security Programme (NCSP): The NCSP is a government-funded program that provides funding and support to businesses and organizations to improve their cyber security. Arc Systems can help you to apply for funding and support from the NCSP.
- The Cyber Essentials scheme: The Cyber Essentials scheme is a government-backed scheme that helps businesses protect themselves from cyber threats. Arc Systems can help you to achieve Cyber Essentials certification.
- The Cyber Essentials Plus scheme: The Cyber Essentials Plus scheme is an enhanced version that provides businesses with additional protection against cyber threats. Arc Systems can help you to achieve Cyber Essentials Plus certification.
Professional Cyber Security Consulting Services
Arc Systems is a leading cyber security company in the UK. We have the expertise, experience, technology, and vigilance to help you protect your business from cyber threats. Arc Systems can help you identify security risks, implement appropriate security controls, and train your employees on best practices. We can also help you to develop a plan to respond to a cyber attack.
With over 30 years in IT Support and 15 years in cyber security we’ve been at the forefront of the cybersecurity evolution. Our expertise is globally recognised, having won the MSP Connect Excellence Award four times in consecutive years across 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021. We partner with the very best industry leading vendors and hold Cyber Security Plus and is ISO 9001 certification. We are also Sophos Platinum Partner sand as one of the largest Sophos MSP’s in the UK.
Trusted by a range of organisations, from Fortune 500 companies to startups, underscoring our reliability and expertise. We understand that no two organisations face the same challenges and provide tailored IT and cyber security solutions unique to each vulnerability.
If you need assistance with cyber security in the UK, consider consulting with experts like Arc Systems. They can conduct a comprehensive cyber security consultation and provide tailored solutions to secure your systems.
Contact Arc Systems for a Cyber Security Consultation
To navigate the cyber threat landscape, businesses must stay vigilant and proactive. Arc Systems can provide comprehensive cyber security consulting, helping you enhance your cyber security posture and stay ahead of the game. Contact Arc Systems today for cyber security consulting and find the best way to secure your website and IT systems.
Cybersecurity Frequently Asked Questions
What is cyber security?
Cyber security protects computers, servers, mobile devices, electronic systems, networks, and data from digital attacks.
Why is cyber security important for businesses?
Cyber security is crucial for businesses to safeguard sensitive data, maintain customer trust, and preserve their reputation. It also ensures business continuity by preventing disruptions caused by cyber-attacks.
What are the latest cyber security threats?
The latest cyber threats include phishing, ransomware, and DDoS attacks. These threats are constantly evolving, becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect. Human error is also a significant threat, causing over 90% of data and security breaches.
What are the best practices for cyber security?
Best practices include implementing robust security measures, updating software, using strong passwords, and staying informed about the latest cyber threats. Regular audits and consultations with cyber security experts like Arc Systems are also recommended.
How can businesses improve their cyber security posture?
Businesses can improve their cyber security posture by staying informed, being proactive, conducting regular system audits, and consulting with cyber security experts like Arc Systems. Implementing the latest security measures and software is also crucial.
What are the benefits of hiring a cybersecurity company?
Hiring a cyber security company provides access to expertise, cutting-edge technologies, and constant vigilance against threats. It helps businesses stay ahead in the cyber security game and ensures comprehensive protection against cyber threats.
What are the cyber security laws in the UK?
The UK has several laws to protect businesses and individuals from cyber threats, including the Data Protection Act 2018 and the Network and Information Systems Regulations 2018. Compliance with these laws is mandatory for UK businesses.
What are the resources available to businesses in the UK for cyber security?
Resources for cyber security in the UK include government initiatives like the National Cyber Security Centre, professional consulting services like Arc Systems, and various informative publications and online resources.
How can businesses get help with cyber security in the UK?
Businesses in the UK can get help with cyber security by consulting with experts like Arc Systems. They provide comprehensive cyber security consultations and tailored solutions to secure business systems.
Contact Us for a Cybersecurity Consultation
Arc Systems is a leading cyber security company in the UK. We have the expertise, experience, technology, and vigilance to help you protect your business from cyber threats. We can help you identify your security risks, implement appropriate security controls, and train your employees on best practices. Arc Systems can also help you to develop a plan to respond to a cyber attack. If you are concerned about your business’s cyber security, don’t hesitate to contact Arc Systems today. We can help protect your business from cyber threats and keep your data safe.