Small business owners have been urged not to take shortcuts cybersecurity and IT as hackers continue to target vulnerable systems.
With Medibank the latest corporation to be hit with a cyber attack, Brisbane-based IT services firm Connected Platforms is urging all businesses – including small businesses – to ensure they are protected.
Failing to implement basic system updates could be exposing businesses to ransomware attacks which lock down a company’s data, with demands for payment in order to get it back.
Tougher economic times and tighter business budgets are leading to more small businesses with inadequate protection of customer data.
Connected Platforms is a locally-owned Queensland business working to protect and support SMEs.
Experienced ICT executive Mike Crowhen joined the team at Connected Platforms this month and believes businesses need to step-up their cybersecurity and training in order to protect their customers.
“Having worked in ICT for over two decades, I know businesses want the peace-of-mind that a trusted, inclusive provider like Connected Platforms provides,” Mr Crowhen said.
“We know that many businesses are tightening their belts, but IT and cybersecurity is something that lies at the heart of most businesses and should not be compromised.”
Mr Crowhen said training staff to recognise potential scams and hacks is also critical.
“Things like fake invoices and dodgy links open the door to hackers who are becoming more sophisticated and harder for the average person to detect,” he said.
Connected Platforms is offering small businesses a free IT Health Check which can help to detect vulnerabilities and spot opportunities for a more efficient business.