The shift to remote work has transformed how we work, but also introduces new cyber security challenges, particarly around access control in a less structured environment, like a home office.  When working off site,  your personal network and devices become potential entry points into your organisation's systems, making robust access control crucial.

Multi factor authentication is considered the most impactful single step you can take to strengthen your access control to digital accounts, systems and data. While a strong password is your first line of defence, MFA adds a critical second (or more) layer of verification, making it much harder for cyber criminals to gain unauthorised entry, even if they've stolen your password.

Cyber security awareness isn't static; it evolves with new threats and changes in technology.  

Technology alone will not fully protect an organisation; people are often considered the weakest link or biggest vulnerability in the security chain, but they can also be the strongest. Cyber security training is not just an option, but an absolute necessity.

Cyber security has many levels; policies and procedures are about establishing clear rules, guidelines and processes that govern how information is handled within an organisation.  Well-defined policies and procedures serve as the blueprint for your cyber security program, ensuring consistent practices, reducing human error and providing a framework for accountability.

Before you can effectively improve your cyber security, you must first understand where you are - Understand Your Cyber Posture. It involves a thorough evaluation of your existing security measures, identifying vulnerabilities, and understanding the risks you face.  You can't protect what you don't know you have or what weaknesses you might have hidden

🔚Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14th 2025 - this means no more security updates, bug fixes or technical support.

Education providers are prime targets for cyber attacks due to the sensitive personal data they hold, with often limited IT resources to protect it.

Preventing ransomware attacks requires a multi-layered approach.  Regular backups are crucial - ensure they are isolated and tested. Employee training is paramount; staff must be able to recognise a phishing attempt.  All software and systems should be updated to patch vulnerabilities.  Strong access controls and MFA for all accounts will prevent up to 89% of data beaches.

The headlines often focus on large organisations or governments falling victim to cyber attacks, such as M&S and the Co-op, however, there is an increasing number of attacks on schools and colleges.  A ransomware attack on a school can be particularly devastating, crippling operations, disrupting learning and putting sensitive student and staff data at risk.

Creating a cyber action plan will help you navigate the digital world safely.  A well thought out plan can help you with a structured approach to improving your security posture, help identify weaknesses and ensure a rapid response when an incident occurs.  It can move you from reactive panic to proactive preparedness.

While cyber security may sound complex and something just for 'the IT department', that couldn't be further from the truth.  Cyber security is a shared responsibility, and every individual from the CEO down to the newest apprentice, plays a vital role in protection themselves and their broader digital ecosystem.