Sheffield Broker Unveils Top Tips For Small Business to Combat Growing Threat of Cyber Crime

13th April 2015

Sheffield broker IFM is warning local businesses of the growing threat of cyber crime by providing some practical tips to combat the problem.

This follows latest research by the Department for Business Innovation and Skills, which estimates that 60% of small companies suffered a cyber breach last year. Worryingly only 10% of firms have cover in place to protect against cyber crime. So IFM Insurance is responding by providing small business with some practical tips to protect against the risk. John Leigh, Director of IFM Insurance Brokers said, -Cyber crime is a growing threat to all businesses in South Yorkshire and the tactics employed by hackers are becoming more sophisticated. So local firms should evaluate their IT security and protection requirements to ensure they remain secure. Insurance is available to help combat cyber crime and the reputational damage it can cause. All companies should take steps to ensure they are fully protected and should contact their local broker for advice. IFM top tips to combat cyber crime Ensure your business has proper internet security in place including firewalls, anti virus and anti spam Test back up plans and business continuity procedures Lap top computers and monitors are common targets for thieves. If stolen this could mean lost data and lost productivity. Lock servers in a room and move laptops into a secure drawer at the end of a working day Encrypt important information for extra security so that only authorised users will be able to access them Purchase legitimate software from reputable companies and be careful when downloading free software Don't open files on a website or in an email from an unknown or suspicious source Ensure you have adequate insurance in place to protect against a cyber attack. Affordable cover is available so speak with your broker who can arrange a suitable policy