According to CyberSmart, 47% of UK SMEs believe they’re at greater risk of a cyberattack since the onset of the cost-of-living crisis. Economic uncertainty has led to mistrust with 38% of leaders worrying about malicious insider threats from employees, while 32% are concerned about the potential for supply chain fraud.
Recently, significant events such as the Covid-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis are being exploited by cyber criminals to snare victims. New trends affecting individuals and businesses include email scams, also known as ‘phishing’ providing false promises of energy and council tax rebates or encouraging people to apply for a ‘cost of living payment’, mimicking legitimate government support packages.
Phishing involves fraudsters sending emails or text messages to potential victims that are posed as legitimate requests from genuine organisations, in order to extract personal information or money from the victim. As a result, victims can find their accessed by an unauthorised third party, confidential data stolen, or bank accounts emptied.
Phishing attacks are becoming harder and harder to recognise. For businesses, phishing emails may not be flagged by spam folders and could be picked up by employees who believe them to be genuine.
To avoid falling victim to fraudsters, get in touch with the organisation emailing or texting you to confirm that the message is legitimate and avoid clicking on suspicious links, or opening attachments. Clicking on links or opening attachments could download malware onto your computer or be a fake page that encourages you to enter personal details and financial information.
Staff training, staying up to date with the latest guidance, and reporting phishing attempts to relevant authorities will help you stay safe online.
You can find out more about the current cyber threat landscape by signing up for our free core membership – you will also gain access to a wealth of free cyber security resources.
The NEBRC is a non-profit organisation that seeks to educate, inform, and support businesses across the UK by staying safe against cyber threats through strong cyber security. For further information, advice or support please contact [email protected] and / or visit www.nebrcentre.co.uk