Welcome, Sarah, to your September Threat Assessment. Together, we are building a safer digital future for everyone!

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Threat Assessment and Cyber News

September 2024

Welcome to the latest threat assessment and cyber news for SWCRC members

Female studnet with study materials ready for university

Ready for University? Stay safe with These Cyber Tips.

Starting university is an exciting time, but it’s also when cyber scams can catch students off guard. Cybercriminals are targeting students more than ever, from dodgy public Wi-Fi to phishing emails. Discover essential tips for staying cyber-savvy on campus, from using strong passwords to spotting deals too good to be true.

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Creepy Signs You’re Being Targeted by a Cyber Attack

Cyber attacks are getting more advanced, and even everyday users in the UK are at risk. From strange device activity to odd messages from your accounts, knowing the warning signs can help you take action before it’s too late. Learn what to watch out for and get tips on how to protect your devices from growing cyber threats.
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Sign that says "please do not feed the zombies"

Are Zombie Accounts Putting Your Business at Risk? Don’t Feed the Hackers!

Forgotten accounts from platforms you no longer use could leave your business vulnerable to cyber-attacks. These “zombie” accounts are potential gateways for hackers to steal credentials, breach data, and wreak havoc on your systems. Regularly auditing and cleaning up these dormant accounts is crucial to securing your digital landscape.
 Read more...
MacBook with Google Search engine

Be Wary of Fake Google Ads: Protect Your Mac from Dangerous Malware

A new strain of malware targets Mac users by disguising themselves as a popular browser through fake Google Ads. Known as Poseidon, this scam tricks users into downloading a malicious file that steals sensitive data, including passwords and cryptocurrency.

Read more...

SWCRC News

Are we the Police, or a Business?

Both! We’ve always been closely aligned with the policing community, and last month, we’ve made that connection even clearer. Our new URL highlights our partnership with UK policing and our daily work with the Cyber Protect Network. By updating to swcrc.police.uk, we aim to enhance trust and clarity, ensuring that businesses and charities across the South West know they are engaging with a credible and officially supported service. 💼✨

 

swcrc.police.uk

We are now a CompTIA Authorised Partner

Hooray!!! The South West Cyber Resilience Centre is now an authorised partner of CompTIA. We will soon be putting our staff through some additional cyber security training, but we can also provide access to this training to our membership and wider policing community. Get in touch if you would like to participate in a CompTIA course!

 

CompTIA Authorised Partner

BIT Training announces available seats for funded Skills Bootcamps in IT and Cyber Security

Following the successful opening of applications for its May wave of Skills for Life Bootcamps in 2024, BIT Training announces available training seats remaining for the IT and Cyber Security programmes starting online on 23rd September 2024.
This government-funded initiative empowers residents aged 19+ in Devon and Cornwall to acquire industry recognised IT or Cyber skills, bolstering the region's tech capabilities and addressing the crucial need for skilled professionals through new hires or by upskilling organisations current workforce.
 
These fully-funded bootcamps equip trainees with the skills employers seek, with no recruitment fees associated upon completion.
 
Limited spots are still available. Don't miss this chance to launch or enhance your career in IT or Cyber Security!
Learn More and Apply Today:
  • Trainee Information: BIT Training (thinkbittraining.co.uk)
Contact the BIT Training Skills Bootcamp Team on 01752 724000 or email sales@thinkbittraining.co.uk

 

Digital Care Hub Free Webinar!

'Busting the Myths around Digital Social Care Records (DSCR's).' In it we have guest speakers from University of Sheffield research team who have spoken to many providers, and along with the Digital Care Hub Team, will be helping guide your through the possible pitfalls of using DSCR's and how to overcome them.
 
'The time is ticking' for funding to support the DSCR's so a great opportunity to get some key insight and advice. Please sign up below:
 
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/busting-myths-on-digital-social-care-records-dscrs-tickets-955831075477

 

Leonardo Cyber Advice

Leonardo partners with SWCRC to support the local community, as well as the UK Police Service and Defence, in understanding and managing cyber risks. Here are some of their top tips:

 

Are You the Weakest Link? Prioritising Your Cyber Risks

 

In today’s interconnected world, businesses, whether large or small, are often part of a broader supply chain. Unfortunately, many organisations lack a clear picture of their digital landscape, leading to hidden cyber risks. Without understanding what systems and connections exist, it’s hard to protect against potential threats – leaving vulnerabilities that could not only impact you but also those you do business with.

 

Why This Matters for Small Businesses

 

It’s easy to think that cyber security is only something for big companies with large budgets. But in reality, small businesses are often seen as easier targets. Hackers may not be after you directly but could use you as a gateway to attack others you work with.

 

The good news? Effective cyber security isn’t just about spending big. It’s about spending smart – understanding your risks and making sure every pound invested truly counts.

 

Questions You Should Be Asking:

 

•Do you know all the systems and connections your business relies on?

•Are you aware of the risks from external systems (like suppliers or partners) that link to yours?

•Are your cyber security goals aligned with your business needs?

•Do you have a clear way to measure and manage risks to your information and systems?

•Are you confident you fully understand the security risks to your business?

 

If any of these questions are a bit uncertain, it could mean hidden risks are lurking in your business. And when budgets are tight, it’s crucial to focus spending on the areas that will deliver the most protection.

 

How Can You Build Cyber Resilience?

 

Start by ensuring you have a clear view of all your internal systems and external connections. Regularly review the risks they pose and ensure you’re prioritising where to focus your security efforts. Establish a basic security standard that fits your risk level and supports uninterrupted business operations.

 

Regularly checking and updating your security measures ensures they stay effective. Consistent risk management helps you decide whether investing in a specific tool or a broader system update will bring more overall value.

 

Even on a limited budget, understanding your risks and focusing on what matters most will set you on the path to long-term cyber resilience.

 

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    We post regular updates on new cyber risks so please do connect with us or follow our pages.

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South West Cyber Resilience Centre Limited (SWCRC) is registered as a Limited Company in England and Wales (No. 13407119)

Joint Emergency Services Building, Wimborne Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2BP, United Kingdom 

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South West Cyber Resilience Centre Ltd, Joint Emergency Services Building, Wimborne Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2BP, United Kingdom

 

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