Research unveils concerning cyber security practices among UK SME’s.
- 69% of small businesses use weak passwords for crucial data access.
- 47% lack updated anti-virus software, exposing them to potential threats.
- 15% are without firewalls, leaving them vulnerable to breaches.
- Almost half do not provide employees with cybersecurity awareness training.
Recent research has highlighted alarming deficiencies in IT security among UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). A staggering 69% of these businesses rely on weak passwords to access important documents and internal systems, significantly increasing their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. Password management continues to be a critical issue as ineffective protocols make it easier for unauthorised access to sensitive information.
Furthermore, the study uncovered that 47% of these entities do not have up-to-date anti-virus software, which is crucial for detecting and preventing potential hacking incidents. This technological shortcoming leaves businesses exposed to an array of cyber threats, compromising their data integrity and security.
In addition, 15% of the surveyed businesses operate without any firewall protections. This significant oversight fails to prevent unauthorised access and safeguard against cyber security breaches, making the companies susceptible to various forms of attacks.
Alarmingly, it was also revealed that nearly half of these organisations neglect to provide vital cybersecurity awareness training to their staff. Without proper training, employees remain ill-equipped to recognise and respond to cyber threats effectively, which further amplifies the risks of breaches.
Marketing Director at Probrand, Matt Royle, expressed concerns about these findings, emphasising the importance of understanding the financial implications and complexities of modern cyber threats. Royle stressed the need for businesses to adopt stronger defences, including updating their cybersecurity measures and enhancing employee awareness.
The findings underscore a pressing need for UK SMEs to enhance their cybersecurity strategies and training.
