Tag: cyber security

Safeguarding Education: The Looming Threat of Cyber Attacks as Schools Resume

As students across the United Kingdom eagerly return to classrooms after an extended break, the education sector faces a growing and alarming risk—cyber attacks. The digital age has brought a myriad of benefits to our schools, from interactive learning platforms to remote teaching tools. However, these advancements also open the door to malicious actors seeking to exploit vulnerabilities in school networks. With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated and pervasive, the need for robust cyber security measures in educational institutions has never been more critical.

In a world where information flows freely online, schools have become prime targets for cybercriminals.

The consequences of a successful cyber attack on a school can be far-reaching and devastating. Personal data of students and staff, academic records, and even financial information are all at risk. Such attacks can disrupt learning environments, compromise sensitive information, and lead to substantial financial losses.

At The Unite Group, we understand the unique challenges faced by educational institutions in the UK.

Our comprehensive cyber security solutions are tailored to protect schools from a wide range of cyber threats. From ransomware attacks to data breaches, we employ cutting-edge technology and expert knowledge to safeguard your educational community.

One key reason schools are vulnerable is the rapid adoption of technology in the education sector.

While embracing technology is essential for modern education, it also exposes schools to cyber risks. With the proliferation of devices and online learning platforms, the attack surface has expanded significantly. Each device, application, or network connection represents a potential entry point for cybercriminals.

Education-focused cyber attacks have been on the rise in recent years.

Attackers often exploit the trust that students and staff place in their educational institutions. Phishing emails, for instance, can deceive users into revealing sensitive information, and the consequences can be dire. A successful phishing attack can lead to unauthorised access to school networks, loss of data, and even financial fraud.

The Unite Group is here to ensure that your school is equipped to defend against these threats.

Our multi-layered approach to cyber security includes robust email filtering and training to help school staff and students identify and thwart phishing attempts. Additionally, we implement network security measures to safeguard against unauthorised access and data breaches.

Another growing concern in the education sector is ransomware attacks.

These malicious attacks can cripple a school’s operations by encrypting critical data and demanding a ransom for its release. Falling victim to such an attack can result in not only financial losses but also significant disruptions to teaching and learning.

At The Unite Group, we offer proactive measures to prevent cyber attacks on schools.

Our advanced threat detection and response tools continuously monitor your network for unusual activity, allowing us to identify and neutralise potential threats before they can inflict harm. Additionally, we provide secure data backup solutions to ensure your critical information is safe and recoverable in the event of an attack.

Data privacy is paramount in educational institutions.

With the influx of digital records and sensitive information, schools must maintain strict data protection standards to comply with GDPR regulations. Failure to do so can lead to severe legal and financial consequences.

The Unite Group can help schools achieve and maintain compliance with data protection laws.

We offer comprehensive data encryption, access controls, and regular security assessments to ensure your school’s data remains confidential and secure.

As technology continues to evolve, so do cyber threats.

Schools must remain vigilant and proactive in their efforts to protect their digital assets. Partnering with a trusted cyber security provider, like ourselves here at The Unite Group, can be a game-changer in mitigating the risks associated with returning to school in an increasingly digital world.

In conclusion, the risk of cyber attacks on schools as they return this week is a pressing concern.

The education sector must prioritise cyber security to protect students, staff, and critical data. Here at The Unite Group, we are committed to helping schools across the UK stay safe from cyber threats. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact us today and make cyber security a top priority for your educational institution. Together, we can ensure a secure and uninterrupted learning experience for all.

September 6, 2023
Building a Strong Digital Defence: The Importance of Cyber Essentials

In today’s interconnected world, the importance of Cyber Essentials cannot be overstated. As businesses continue to rely heavily on digital technologies and online platforms, the need for robust cyber security measures has never been greater.

Why Cyber Essentials Matter

The importance of Cyber Essentials lies in its role as a foundational framework for safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining the integrity of digital operations. In a landscape rife with ever-evolving cyber threats, having a solid defence strategy is paramount. Cyber Essentials provide a structured approach that helps organisations of all sizes fortify their digital infrastructure. To learn more about the Cyber Essentials scheme, click here.

Streamlined Protection

The importance of Cyber Essentials lies not only in its comprehensiveness but also in its adaptability to different industries and sectors. This framework doesn’t impose a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, it offers a set of fundamental principles that can be tailored to an organisation’s specific needs. This flexibility ensures that businesses can focus their efforts on areas that are most vulnerable to attacks. Thus optimising their defence mechanisms.

Risk Mitigation

One cannot emphasise enough the importance of Cyber Essentials in risk mitigation. Cyber threats can disrupt operations, compromise customer trust, and lead to financial losses. By adhering to the principles of Cyber Essentials, companies can identify potential vulnerabilities, assess risks, and implement measures to reduce the likelihood of successful cyberattacks.

Regulatory Compliance

The importance of Cyber Essentials extends beyond proactive defence; it also aligns with regulatory requirements. Many industries are subject to cyber security regulations that mandate a certain level of protection for digital assets. Cyber Essentials provide a clear roadmap for meeting these obligations, ensuring that businesses not only enhance their security posture but also remain compliant with relevant laws.

Cyber Insurance Eligibility

In an era where cyberattacks can have devastating financial implications, the importance of Cyber Essentials is evident in its influence on cyber insurance eligibility. Insurers often view organisations that have obtained Cyber Essentials certification as lower-risk entities. This perception can lead to more favourable insurance premiums and terms, offering an additional layer of financial protection.

Consumer Confidence and Reputation

Maintaining consumer confidence is a vital aspect of business success. The importance of Cyber Essentials is evident when considering how it contributes to building and preserving trust among customers. Informed consumers are increasingly cautious about sharing their data with companies that lack robust cyber security measures. By demonstrating a commitment to Cyber Essentials, businesses can enhance their reputation and attract security-conscious customers.

Global Competitiveness

In today’s global marketplace, the importance of Cyber Essentials transcends borders. Companies that prioritise cyber security by implementing the principles of Cyber Essentials position themselves as trustworthy partners for international collaborations. This not only opens doors to global opportunities but also establishes a competitive edge in an interconnected world.

Staying Ahead of Emerging Threats

The importance of Cyber Essentials becomes even more pronounced as cyber threats continue to evolve in sophistication and scale. While traditional security measures may offer some level of protection, they might not be sufficient to counter the latest tactics employed by cybercriminals. Cyber Essentials emphasise continuous improvement and staying updated with emerging threats, ensuring that businesses are well-prepared to tackle new challenges.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the importance of Cyber Essentials cannot be emphasised enough. From bolstering security measures to enhancing consumer trust, regulatory compliance to global competitiveness, the benefits are vast and far-reaching. As the digital landscape evolves, Cyber Essentials provide a steadfast foundation upon which businesses can build a strong digital defence, safeguarding their operations, data, and reputation in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

Here at The Unite Group, we have qualified Cyber Essentials assessors in-house who are on hand to guide you through gaining the certification. To find out more visit our Cyber Essentials page or speak to one of our assessors today, 0191 466 1050.

August 4, 2023
July 2023 – Newsletter

Here it is, our July Newsletter to give you an insight into everything that has been going on here at The Unite Group over the past month.

In this newsletter: We Are United! We join the Newcastle United Executive Club, Network+ announce their next networking event, we spotlight our client LD:North East, we introduce you to our latest team member, we offer a FREE webinar to our customers, and learn more about Search Engine Optimisation (SEO).

To read The Unite Group’s July Monthly Newsletter, click on the image below!

To be added to our mailing list drop us an email, info@theunitegroup.co.uk or to speak to our friendly team call us on, 0191 466 1050

July 26, 2023
BBC, Boots, and BA: A Day of Cyber Breaches Shakes Public Confidence

With 3 huge cyber breaches hitting the headlines yesterday for some of the country’s largest companies, we must treat this as a reminder to ensure your business is protected.

Introduction

In the digital age, cyber security breaches have become an unfortunate reality for organisations worldwide. Yesterday, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), Boots, and British Airways (BA) experienced significant cyber breaches. Highlighting the vulnerability of even the most prominent institutions. This blog will delve into the details of these breaches, their implications, and the growing need for robust cyber security measures in today’s interconnected world.

BBC’s Data Leak

Yesterday, the BBC fell victim to a data leak. This resulted in the exposure of sensitive information belonging to millions of users. The breach compromised usernames, email addresses, and potentially even passwords. This incident raises concerns about the security of user data and underscores the importance of stringent security protocols.

As one of the most trusted news sources globally, the BBC’s reputation has taken a hit. Users rely on the organisation for reliable information, and a breach of this magnitude shakes public confidence. This incident serves as a wake-up call for the BBC and other media organisations to reassess their cyber security practices and implement stronger protective measures.

Boots Pharmaceutical’s Customer Data Breach

In a separate incident on the same day, Boots, a leading pharmacy chain, experienced a significant cyber breach that compromised customer data. Personal information, including names, addresses, and even medical history, was potentially exposed. With over 2,500 stores across the United Kingdom, Boots serves millions of customers. This breach affects a vast number of individuals.

The breach raises concerns about the potential misuse of sensitive medical information, leading to identity theft and other fraudulent activities. Customers who trust Boots with their private details now face an uncertain future. The incident highlights the need for enhanced cyber security measures within the healthcare sector, where the stakes are particularly high due to the sensitivity of the data involved.

British Airways’ Cyber Attack

Adding to the day’s unfortunate events, British Airways suffered a cyber attack resulting in unauthorised access to customer accounts. The breach exposed personal and financial information, potentially compromising credit card details of thousands of individuals. British Airways, a prominent airline, has faced previous cyber security incidents, and this breach further erodes public confidence in its ability to protect customer data.

The airline industry operates within a highly regulated framework and is entrusted with vast amounts of passenger information. Breaches like this not only affect individuals but also have broader implications for the aviation sector as a whole. Rebuilding trust in the industry will require swift action, robust security measures, and transparent communication with affected customers.

The Growing Need for Strong Cybersecurity Measures

The cyber breaches experienced by the BBC, Boots, and British Airways illustrate the ongoing challenge organisations face in safeguarding sensitive data. As technology advances, cybercriminals find increasingly sophisticated methods to exploit vulnerabilities. It is essential for companies to adopt proactive cyber security strategies to protect user information effectively.

Organisations must invest in state-of-the-art security infrastructure, regularly update software and systems, and conduct comprehensive audits to identify potential weaknesses. Training employees to recognise and respond to cyber threats is equally crucial. Collaboration between the public and private sectors, sharing threat intelligence, and implementing best practices can strengthen the collective defence against cyberattacks.

So, how does this act as a reminder to protect your business?

These attacks have highlighted how no business is too big, or small, to fall victim to an attack. Here at The Unite Group, we recommend Microsoft Premium to our customers as a first step to protecting their business. Microsoft Premium offers robust cyber protection to individuals and organisations, equipping them with advanced security features and tools. With Microsoft Premium, users benefit from enhanced email and file protection, including advanced threat detection and remediation capabilities.

The service provides real-time monitoring and alerts for potential cyber threats, allowing users to proactively address security vulnerabilities. Additionally, Microsoft Premium offers multi-factor authentication, ensuring an extra layer of security for user accounts. The service also includes secure cloud storage and backup options, protecting valuable data from loss or unauthorised access. With its comprehensive suite of cybersecurity features, Microsoft Premium empowers users to safeguard their digital assets and maintain peace of mind in an increasingly interconnected world.

Moreover, having a Cyber Essentials certification is another recommendation we suggest businesses put in place. Cyber Essentials is a recognised and widely adopted cyber security standard designed to help organisations mitigate common cyber risks and demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding sensitive data. It provides a baseline framework of security controls that organisations can implement to protect against prevalent cyber threats. To learn more about Cyber Essentials, click here.

Conclusion

The cyber breaches at the BBC, Boots, and British Airways highlight the pervasive nature of cyber threats and the need for continuous vigilance in protecting sensitive data. These incidents have far-reaching consequences for both the affected organisations and the public’s trust in their ability to secure personal information. As technology evolves, organisations must adapt and invest in robust cyber security measures to mitigate risks and maintain public confidence. Only through collective efforts can we build a safer digital landscape for the future.

If you would like to find out more about the cyber security measures we can put in place for your business, contact our team today!

Let’s prevent the risk of your business falling victim to such an attack.

June 6, 2023
Creating Strong Passwords – World Password Day – 4th May 2023
Introduction

Today we join the celebrations of World Password Day by reminding you of the dangers of not using strong passwords. As well as, sharing top tips to create strong passwords. The internet is a dangerous place. That’s why we all need to be more careful about how we handle our online security. Strong passwords are your first line of defense against cybercrime and they’re actually pretty easy to create! So come along as we dive into the world of strong passwords and see how you can protect yourself from hackers in just five easy steps.

Be aware of the latest threats

You should also be aware of the latest threats and how they affect you. The first step is to stay up to date on new developments in password security, which can be done by following actively checking the National Cyber Security Centre website. Or by speaking with your IT support provider, such as our team here at The Unite Group.

The consequences of being unaware of the latest threats are dire: if your password is compromised because it was too easy to guess or crack, then all your accounts could be hacked as well! This could result in identity theft or even financial loss.

Use different passwords for each service you use
- Use a password manager to store all of your passwords.
- Use different passwords for each service you use.
- Don’t use the same password for two services, even if they’re related (for example, don’t use the same password for both Facebook and Instagram).
- Don’t use your email address or name as a password (it’s too easy to guess).
- Don’t use common words that could be found in any dictionary–especially when those words are part of something personal about yourself (like your birthday).
Use a password manager to manage your passwords

A password manager is a tool that stores your passwords, often in an encrypted format. The benefit of using one is that it can create strong passwords for you and then remember them for each website or service you sign up for. This way, all your passwords are unique and significantly harder to crack than if they were all the same.

You should use a password manager on all your devices so that any device has access to the same data without having to enter it manually each time (which could lead to forgetting). Most password managers also allow users to store credit card details or other sensitive information securely in case someone gets hold of their device somehow – this makes recovering from this kind of breach much easier!

Use a unique and long password for each account

The most important thing you can do to protect your accounts is to use a unique, long password for every account. If you’re having trouble remembering all of your passwords and login information, try using a password manager as mentioned above.

We recommend using a range of numbers, symbols and both uppercase and lowercase letters within your password to create a complex password. Shorter passwords also become easier to guess, so try to ensure your passwords are always over 8 characters long.

Don’t use dictionary words or personal information in passwords
- Avoid dictionary words, personal information, and other common passwords.
- Don’t use the same password for multiple accounts.
- Don’t create passwords that are easy to guess (such as your birthday or pet’s name).
Strong passwords are your first line of defense against cybercrime

Strong passwords are your first line of defense against cybercrime. A strong password is hard to guess and easy to remember, which makes it much harder for someone else to steal your identity or break into your accounts.

Let’s recap top tips to create a strong password that’s both secure and memorable:
- Use a password manager
- Use different passwords for each service you use, even if they’re all from the same company (e.g., Facebook, Gmail)
- Make sure your passwords are at least 8 characters long
- Change your passwords regularly (e.g. every month)
Conclusion

As you can see, there are many ways to create strong passwords. The most important thing is to use different passwords for each service you use and make sure they are unique and long. You should also use a password manager to help manage all of your passwords so that they are safe even if you get hacked by cyber criminals!

If you would like to learn more about measures you can put in place to best protect your business from falling risk to cybercrime, visit our cyber security blog archive or speak to our experienced team today!
May 3, 2023
Cyber Security Misconceptions
Introduction

Cyber security misconceptions are real. It is a topic that’s been in the news a lot recently. You might have heard about hackers, data breaches, ransomware and so on. The topic might seem complicated and scary, but it doesn’t need to be! If you want to learn more about cyber security and dispel some of the myths surrounding it then keep reading!

A firewall is enough

Firewalls are not enough, they are not a panacea. They can be circumvented and evaded, as well as outdated and outmaneuvered by hackers who know how to exploit them.

A firewall is only as good as its ability to keep attackers out, so if you think your company’s firewall alone will protect it from cyber criminals then you’re in for a rude awakening when they get inside your system anyway–and possibly worse: since many attacks happen through email or social media channels, it’s possible that no one would even notice if someone got through!

The hacker is always a criminal

Not all hackers are criminals. In fact, many are motivated by curiosity or a desire to help others.

Some hackers may be motivated by profit and not know that their actions are illegal.

Hackers are always in your network
- Hackers are not always in your network.
- Hackers can be anywhere in the world, and they don’t even need to be on your network to cause damage.
- If a hacker has access to your computer through malware, he or she can use it as a proxy–a remote control device that allows him or her to manipulate information on that computer from afar.
Hacking is easy

Hacking is not always easy. In fact, it can be quite difficult. Hackers are often portrayed as criminals who break into networks and steal sensitive information. However, there are many other types of hackers with different motivations.

In most cases, hacking requires knowledge about how computers work and how to exploit their vulnerabilities. Hacking can also include social engineering techniques that allow a hacker access to systems through human interaction instead of just technology alone.

Data breaches are the norm

Data breaches are not the norm, but they do happen. If you’re reading this article, it’s likely that you already know that data breaches are a big problem for businesses and individuals alike. Data breaches can have serious consequences for businesses–if their customers lose trust in them because of a breach, they may lose revenue as well and suffer other ill effects as well. Data breaches can also have serious consequences for individuals: if your personal information is stolen by an attacker who uses it to commit identity theft or some other crime against you (such as phishing), then your life will be turned upside down while the authorities try to sort out what happened and whether there was anything they could have done differently to prevent it from happening at all!

Cyber security is not as simple as it seems.

Cyber security is a complex area of study. It requires a lot of knowledge and experience, as well as resources and time.

Many people think that cyber security is something they can do on the side while they are working at their day job or going to school full-time. However, this is not true! Cyber security requires constant attention and vigilance in order to keep your data secure at all times; if you aren’t able to commit yourself fully then it’s best not even starting down this path in the first place

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are a lot of cyber security misconceptions. In fact, cyber security can be quite complicated and difficult to understand. But with proper education and awareness, we can all work together to make sure our networks are safe from hackers!

Here at The Unite Group, we are holding a free webinar – Webinars on Wednesday 29th March at 2 pm to give you more information on how you can keep your business safe.
March 22, 2023
Cybersecurity – The real risks!
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Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, and companies must be aware of the risks.

The risks are constantly evolving

Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, and it’s important to be aware of the latest ones. The risks are changing all the time. The risks are growing in number and severity.

The risk landscape is always shifting, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on new cybersecurity threats as well as known ones that might have changed or gotten worse over time.

Who is most at risk?

Small businesses, that don’t have the resources to protect themselves, are at the greatest risk. Companies that don’t have the right IT systems in place and those with a lot of data but not enough security are also vulnerable. Finally, companies that do not have a plan for dealing with a cyber attack are vulnerable because they cannot respond quickly or effectively when one occurs.

What to do about it?
- Build a prevention plan. This can include:
- Monitoring for suspicious activity and responding quickly to it when it occurs.
- Having a response plan in place that includes solutions such as backups, antivirus software and firewalls (to name just a few).
- Ensuring that you know who to contact if there is an incident or breach so they can get started on resolving the problem as soon as possible.
- Training you team
Companies need prevention and detection plans.

Companies need to have a plan in place. If a company is not prepared, it could face huge financial losses and even go out of business. It’s important to know how to respond if an attack occurs, as well as how to recover from one.

The first step is understanding what cybersecurity threats are out there and how they work so that you can protect your business against them.

Cyber Essentials – What is it and why do I need it?

What is it?

The Cyber Essentials scheme is an ISAMW self-assessment questionnaire process. The questionnaire will then be signed off by a member of the board or an equivalent signory. After this, it is then verified by a certification body trained and licensed to certify against the Cyber Essentials scheme (like ourselves here at The Unite Group). It is important before applying you ensure your organisation meets all the requirements. This includes having evidence ready to be provided to prove you meet the requirements.

Now the why;
- Reduce the risk of falling victim to a cyber attack
- Demonstrate to your customers that you take cyber security seriously
- Open your organisation to the opportunities of working with the Government and the Ministry of Defence
- Feel confident you have the basic levels of protection in place
Conclusion

The cyber security landscape is changing rapidly, and companies need to stay ahead of the curve. The risks are constantly evolving and there are new threats every day. The best way to protect against these threats is with a proactive approach that includes prevention and detection plans.

Cyber Essentials can help with this, and The Unite group can be the one to help you get it!
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March 14, 2023
Why is it important for businesses to have IT support?

In today’s fast-paced digital world, technology is critical to the success of any business. The right IT infrastructure can increase productivity, streamline processes, and help businesses stay ahead of the competition. However, with so many different technologies and systems to manage, it can be challenging to keep everything running smoothly. This is where IT support comes in. Here at The Unite Group, we are proud to provide complete Managed IT services. So, you can relax knowing your covered by a team of highly-skilled professionals.

IT support is an essential service for businesses of all sizes. It provides technical assistance and advice to help companies manage their IT systems and infrastructure. As businesses continue to rely more and more on IT infrastructure for the day-to-day running of their business, it is essential to ensure you have the correct support in place. If something were to go wrong.

In this blog, we cover why IT support is so important for businesses:

Maximizing Uptime:

Downtime is a business’s worst nightmare, as it can lead to lost revenue, decreased productivity, and even reputational damage. IT support can help to prevent downtime by providing proactive maintenance, monitoring, and troubleshooting of IT systems. This ensures that issues are identified and resolved quickly, minimizing the impact on the business. Our clever monitoring systems, means we often can fix a fault before you even know it’s a problem. Hugely reducing the risk of downtime due to an IT fault.

Increased Security:

Cyber threats are a constant risk for businesses, and the consequences of a data breach can be severe. IT support can help businesses to implement the latest security measures, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and data encryption. This can help to protect against cyber threats and ensure that sensitive data is kept safe. We offer various cyber security options to further protect our customers. One being support to achieve a Cyber Essentials certification. This scheme is said to protect businesses from 80% of the most basic cyber threats. Click here to learn more about the Cyber Essentials scheme.

Improved Efficiency:

IT support can help businesses to identify and implement the best technology solutions for their needs. This can help to improve efficiency by streamlining processes, automating tasks, and reducing manual labour. By optimising technology, businesses can work more efficiently, save time, and reduce costs. Our team of highly qualified engineers will be able to offer recommendations for software to reduce the amount of time your staff spend doing mundane, routine tasks. Instead, being able to offer solutions to speed up processes.

Access to Expertise:

IT support provides businesses with access to a team of experts with a wide range of technical knowledge and experience. This means that businesses can get the help they need to solve complex IT problems, without the need to hire an in-house IT team. IT support can also help businesses stay up-to-date with the latest technology trends, ensuring that they remain competitive in their industry. Here at The Unite Group, we provide a price per user, not per device. Therefore you can be assured our team of experts will assist no matter what the issue your team faces.

In conclusion, IT support is an essential service for businesses that rely on technology to operate. It can help businesses to maximize uptime, increase security, improve efficiency, and access technical expertise. With the right IT support, businesses can stay ahead of the competition and succeed in the fast-paced digital world. To learn more about how your businesses could benefit from Managed IT support from The Unite Group, contact our friendly team today. Or alternatively visit our IT support page to learn more!

February 17, 2023
We celebrate Safer Internet Day!
Today marks Safer Internet Day. This day promotes the responsibility of both adults and young people in creating a safer space online.

Each year, people from all over the world come together to spread awareness and celebrate Safer Internet Day.

In today’s day and age, people of all ages move towards a more digital way of life. From mobile phones to work laptops and gaming devices, electronic devices are intertwined with our daily lives.

Now more than ever, safe internet use and cybersecurity have never had such importance. So much of our personal and professional data can be accessed through the internet. This means internet safety and cyber security should be at the forefront of our minds.

Although technology keeps us entertained and makes our lives easier, it also has its complications.

Whilst individuals must follow best practices to protect themselves, businesses must do this to protect sensitive data. Safer Internet Day is a great opportunity to reflect on how we can all promote the responsible use of technologies.

Does your business operate on safe practices?

Horizon WIFI

Is your public WIFI secure?

As the provider of public WIFI, do you have the correct measures in place? If not, this could leave you accountable for any illegal or inappropriate activity on your account.

Horizon public WIFI is traceable. This means you can provide a public wireless solution to your customers with peace of mind you are fully protected. If someone looks at inappropriate material, you can provide this information to the authorities. Furthermore, using content filtering you can prevent these people from ever getting access.

Here at The Unite Group we offer safe public Wi-Fi solutions. Our Horizon public WIFI product is secure, intelligent, and perfect for direct marketing.

Visit our website to learn more about Horizon WIFI or contact us on 0191 466 1050.

Phishing Emails

It’s always important for both individuals and employees to be on the lookout for phishing emails. Phishing emails are categorised as a cybercrime that contacts its target via email. The sender uses this form of attack to gain and exploit personal or sensitive business information.

There are 3 types of phishing emails to look out for:

Spear phishing – an attempt directed at a particular individual or company.

Clone phishing – hackers use a legitimate, previously delivered, part of online correspondence to create almost identical emails.

Whaling – an attempt directed specifically at a senior executive or high-profile target within the business.

For businesses, it’s important to make sure employees are aware of phishing emails and how to spot them. As an individual, never click any links or give any personal information to a sender you are unsure of.

Weak Passwords

We understand that when it comes to creating a password, you want to make it something memorable. But if it’s easy for you to remember, it’s also easy for a hacker to guess.

A lot of people make their passwords something personal, for example, the name of a beloved family pet. However, we need to keep in mind that this information is easy to find. A lot of our personal information is easily accessible online via social media.

Strong passwords are essential in keeping private or sensitive data safe.

In the spirit of Safer Internet Day, why not double-check that your passwords comply with best practices?

We suggest you create strong passwords by following the below steps:
- Use a combination of upper-and lower case letters.
- Include numbers.
- Include special characters (symbols).
- Never include any personal information.
- Never use the same password for different applications.
- Ensure your passwords are at least 12 characters long.
Cyber Essentials

More now then ever cybersecurity is a vital part of any business. With cyber attacks happening more and more frequently it is essential to ensure you have the correct measures in place to protect your data.

We believe businesses should go the extra mile when it comes to cyber security. One way of doing this is to obtain the Cyber Essentials certification.

A foundation-level certificate protects your business from 80% of the most basic cyber security breaches.

You don’t need to be an experienced information security professional or have any technical knowledge to become Cyber Essentials certified; we can help! Our in-house qualified Cyber Essentials assessors are here to assist you throughout the entire process. Giving you peace of mind that you have protection against the most basic cyber threats.

Chat to our friendly team today to see what measures we suggest you put in place to protect your business.

Happy Safer Internet Day!
February 7, 2023
Let’s Breakdown Cyber Essentials
In this blog we breakdown the Cyber Essentials scheme. Explain why achieving the certification is important in simplistic terms – perfect to take straight into the next boardroom meeting. As well as, outline how simple it is to get started with achieving a Cyber Essentials certification.

Cyber Essentials

The Cyber Essentials certification is a UK government-backed scheme intended to provide organisations with a basic level of cyber security. The scheme is both accessible and achievable for all.

There are two levels of certification that businesses can choose from – Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus.

Cyber Essentials involves completing a Cyber Essentials self-assessment questionnaire which one of our qualified assessors can assist with. The questionnaire outlines the 5 key areas of cybersecurity. Ensuring sufficient measures are in place to protect both yourself and your business from the risk of falling victim to cybercrime.

Cyber Essentials Plus, takes this certification a step further. Achieving this also requires the self-assessment questionnaire to be completed. However, it then goes further and includes a hands-on technical verification to be carried out.

All organisations should consider gaining a Cyber Essentials to not only protect themselves. But to demonstrate to their existing and future clients that they take data cybersecurity risks seriously!

How to explain Cyber Essentials to your boss

So, you’ve got to this point. You think gaining a Cyber Essentials certification would be a great step to protect your business. We couldn’t agree more! But now you need to stress the importance of this to your boss. Let us help!
Firstly, could your businesses continue to operate if you were to fall victim to one of the above statistics? We’re sure the answer is no! Therefore it is essential you put measures in place to best prevent an attack.

As well as this, it’s a great talking point when you are selling your business to potential customers. Who wouldn’t want to work with a company who can ensure the best protection for their data? As well as this, achieving the certification opens up the opportunity to work with the Government. And the Ministry of Defense (for Cyber Essentials Plus certifications only).

With our Cyber Essentials packages starting from just £800 and monthly payment options available, you can be sure this will be cheaper than the damage caused by the falling victim. With the certification lasting for 12 months, you can relax with peace of mind you have the correct measures in place. Annual renewal also ensures you remain up-to-date with the latest risks in the cybersecurity world. Because we all know cyber attacks are ever-evolving and becoming harder to spot and prevent year-on-year.

How to get started with Cyber Essentials

Getting started with a Cyber Essentials certification is easy! Simply use the booking form below to organise a quick chat with one of our qualified Cyber Essentials assessors. From there we can best advise which scheme is best for you. Our team will then guide you throughout the entire process. Ensuring you have the necessary measures in place. As well as supporting you with the assessment.

Becoming Cyber Essentials certified is easier than you think and could save your business from the unimaginable!

If you’d like to learn more about the process of Cyber Essentials visit our page by clicking here. Or alternatively, dive into our Cyber Essentials blog archive by clicking here!
February 2, 2023