Essential and Free Resources to Stay Protected
In today’s connected world, cybersecurity is becoming crucial for businesses of all sizes. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK, in particular, are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals due to their perceived lack of robust defences. Unfortunately, many small businesses are unaware of the full scale of the risks they face and, more importantly, the free resources available to help them stay secure.
With cyber threats evolving rapidly, it’s vital for SMEs to raise their cyber security awareness and take proactive steps to protect their digital assets. The good news? You don’t have to do it alone. There is a wealth of free UK-based resources and tools designed specifically to help small businesses improve their cyber defences and boost their awareness.
The Growing Need for Cyber Security Awareness
Cyber threats to SMEs have been on the rise. According to the UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2023, 32% of UK businesses experienced some form of cyber attack or security breach within the last 12 months. For many SMEs, the cost of these attacks can be devastating, with ransomware, phishing scams, and data breaches being among the most common threats.
Despite this, awareness around cybersecurity remains relatively low among small businesses. Many owners mistakenly believe that their size makes them less of a target. But in reality, SMEs are viewed by cybercriminals as easier prey—often lacking the resources or knowledge to implement strong cyber defences.
Fortunately, the UK Government and other organizations provide a range of free tools, advice, and resources to help SMEs improve their cyber resilience.
Top Free Cyber Security Resources for UK SMEs
National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) – Small Business Guide
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is a goldmine for cyber security advice and tools tailored to UK businesses. One of their most popular offerings is the Small Business Guide, which provides simple, actionable steps to improve your company’s cyber resilience. The guide covers key areas such as:
• Backing up your data
• Protecting against malware
• Keeping your devices secure
• Managing passwords effectively
• Avoiding phishing scams
By following the practical advice outlined in this guide, your business can greatly reduce its vulnerability to cyber attacks.
Cyber Essentials Certification
Cyber Essentials is a government-backed certification scheme that helps businesses implement basic cybersecurity measures. While obtaining Cyber Essentials certification normally incurs a fee, the Cyber Essentials Readiness Tool is free and allows SMEs to assess how well they meet the scheme’s criteria.
This tool guides businesses through key questions on their current cybersecurity practices and offers tailored advice to close any gaps. Completing the readiness tool is a great first step in making sure your business is on the right track.
Get Safe Online
Get Safe Online is a free online resource aimed at helping both individuals and businesses navigate the world of online safety. Their business section provides tailored advice for SMEs, including:
• How to safeguard customer data
• Tips on securing company devices and networks
• Guidance on social media and web-based threats
Get Safe Online regularly updates its content to reflect the latest cyber threats, making it a go-to resource for staying informed.
Cyber Aware – Government’s Cyber Security Campaign
Cyber Aware is a UK government campaign that provides simple, actionable advice on how to stay secure online. The website offers advice for individuals, but its “business” section is particularly valuable for SMEs. Cyber Aware focuses on key practices, such as using strong passwords, keeping devices up-to-date, and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA).
The campaign also produces easy-to-share videos, infographics, and social media content to help businesses raise awareness among employees.
Action Fraud – Report Cyber Crime
If your business falls victim to cybercrime, knowing where to report the incident is crucial. Action Fraud is the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. Not only can businesses use the platform to report incidents, but Action Fraud also provides advice on preventing cybercrime and staying alert to the latest scams targeting SMEs.
Additionally, their Cyber Helpline for Small Businesses offers free expert advice to those impacted by cyber attacks.
The British Chambers of Commerce – Cybersecurity Toolkits
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) offers a variety of cyber security resources for its members and the broader business community. In collaboration with NCSC, they’ve created cybersecurity toolkits specifically designed to help SMEs assess their current security measures and adopt best practices. These resources include guides, webinars, and case studies that highlight how other businesses are tackling cyber threats.
The Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU) network.
There are nine Regional Organised Crime Units forming a network across the UK. Each ROCU’s cyber crime unit works proactively and reactively on significant cyber investigations, aiming to defend against evolving threats, deter and disrupt hostile action, and identify and utilise expertise to overcome future threats and challenges. They have a dedicated cyber crime website with links to many of the above free resources. In addition they have “Take 5” straight-forward and impartial advice to help everyone in the UK protect themselves against financial fraud, including: –
• Suspicious Email Reporting Service. How to report a potential phishing message to the NCSC using the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS).
• Have I Been Pawnd. Check if you have an account that has been compromised in a data breach by searching on your email address or username.
• No More Ransom. This website gives you advice on how to protect yourself from this threat.
Cyber Awareness Training for Employees
One of the most effective ways to protect your business from cyber threats is through regular employee training. After all, human error is a leading cause of cyber incidents—whether it’s falling victim to phishing attacks or using weak passwords.
Several free resources can help SMEs train their staff in cybersecurity:
• NCSC’s Training for Staff: NCSC offers a free online training module designed to help employees recognise and defend against common cyber threats. It’s a short, engaging resource that any SME can use to educate their workforce.
• Phishing Simulation Tools: Many organisations offer free or low-cost tools that simulate phishing attacks, allowing you to test your employees’ responses in a safe environment. Look for these on sites like Get Safe Online or as part of Cyber Essentials.
Why Cyber Awareness is Critical for SMEs
For SMEs, the financial and reputational damage of a cyber attack can be overwhelming. Unlike large corporations, smaller businesses often don’t have the resources to recover quickly from a breach. According to research from insurer Hiscox, one in six UK SMEs that fall victim to a cyber attack are forced to close down.
Investing time in cybersecurity awareness is an investment in your business’s future. The free resources outlined above offer a solid foundation to get started, whether you’re implementing basic protection like firewalls and antivirus software or pursuing more comprehensive measures like Cyber Essentials certification.
Final Thoughts: Don’t wait until it’s too late
Cybercrime is not going away. In fact, it’s increasing in frequency and sophistication. But by taking proactive steps today to educate yourself and your employees, you can avoid becoming another statistic.
Use the free UK resources provided here to bolster your defences, train your staff, and stay informed about emerging threats. Whether you’re a small start up or a well-established SME, cybersecurity is no longer optional—it’s essential for survival in today’s digital landscape.
Munro Greenhalgh offer advice on Cyber Risk Insurance – to give you peace of mind – and offer cyber insurance that covers loss of funds, loss of data and technical failure (either accidental or malicious).
Why not book an appointment with us to discuss how we can help stop your business from being one of the 6 million reported phishing scams this year.
Contact Stephen, David or Richard on 01706 824023
“We make it our business to understand your business”
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