We recommend that independent retailers implement the following to reduce the risk of cyber threats occurring on their business or organisation:

  • Install the latest software and app updates; they contain vital security upgrades which help protect against viruses.
  • Use strong and separate passwords for your key accounts, including email and online banking and use three random words to make a strong and memorable password.
  • Provide staff with access to simple, freely-available cyber security training.
  • Back up essential data at regular intervals
  • Conduct a cyber security risk assessment for your business
  • Seek accreditation through the Government-endorsed ’Cyber Essentials’ scheme
  • Never disclose security details such as passwords or PINs
  • Don’t assume an email, text or call is authentic; just because someone knows your basic details, it doesn’t mean they are genuine

Top tips to stay secure online provided by cyberaware.gov.uk

The impact of cyber crime can be significant. The two most important things you can do to protect you and your business are:

Install the latest software and app updates

They contain vital security updates which help protect your device from viruses and hackers.

Use a strong, separate password for your email account

Having strong and separate passwords for your most important accounts – including your email - means that if hackers steal your password for one of your less important accounts, they can’t use it to access your most crucial accounts. A good way to create a strong and memorable password is to use three random words, which are memorable to you, but not easy for others to guess.

Other top tips include:

  • Secure your tablet or smartphone with a screen lock
  • Always back-up your most important data
  • Don’t use public Wi-Fi to transfer sensitive information such as card details
  • Beware of fake websites
  • Use two-factor authentication for your most important accounts
  • Go to cyberaware.gov.uk to find out more or join the conversation @cyberawaregov

 

If you hold any personal data on a computer (as simple as a name and address on an invoice being emailed) then you need to make sure that data is protected.  Add cyber protection onto you bira insurance retail policy today for added financial protection and technical support.