Managing Data and Cybersecurity Risks

It’s essential that businesses take steps to identify, manage and address potential cybersecurity risks. Common risks include malware and viruses, phishing emails, weak passwords, and not managing data securely. The following resources can help businesses to strengthen their cyber resilience.

Managing cybersecurity risks

Startups and existing firms must know how to spot and address cybersecurity risks, such as data breaches, scams and hacks. There are lots of practical steps you can take to improve your cyber resilience. These include setting strong passwords, training staff on how to spot scams and protecting your data.

The National Cyber Security Centre has published a guide setting out practical and affordable steps to improve your cyber resilience.

Cybersecurity toolkits

The Global Cyber Alliance provides a range of free toolkits to help businesses take action to reduce cyber risk. The toolkits cover topics including:

• Passwords.
• Preventing phishing and viruses.
• Defending against ransomware.
• Protecting your emails.
• Updating digital defences.

Cyber Essentials

Cyber Essentials is a government-backed cybersecurity certification scheme to help small businesses and other organisations protect themselves against common online threats. It sets out the basics of cybersecurity and guides organisations through the process of self-protection against cybersecurity risks.

Data protection

Businesses and organisations that handle personal data must comply with data protection legislation. The Information Commissioner’s Office is the independent body in charge of upholding information rights. It provides a wide range of articles, podcasts and guides to help businesses understand their obligations under data protection law.