Tag: technology

National Apprenticeship Week

Here at The Un ite Group, we join the celebrations of National Apprenticeship week. Our directors here are advocates of this method into work. Gaining hands-on experience is best in our eyes. Especially for the industry we are in. Of course, the technical knowledge must back this up. Which is why apprenticeships work so well!

Over the past 10 years, we have had many apprentices who have gone on to progress to more experienced roles within our company. In this blog, we introduce you to 4 members of our team who joined us on an apprenticeship. Sharing what they get up to now within our team.

Ben – Project Team Leader

Ben joined us way back in 2011. Gaining a Diploma in professional competence for IT & Telecoms professionals City & Guilds 7540 Level 3 Certificate in ICT Systems & Principles for Advanced apprenticeships.

Ben is our longest-standing employee, being with us right from the start. Ben over the last 11 years has progressed through our company and is now in a senior role. Following Ben’s apprenticeship completion. He then moved into a Customer Service Technician role. Ben was in this role for 7 years. Gaining experience being on customer sites and putting his knowledge from his apprenticeship into action. Following this, Ben was promoted to Senior Service Technician. Ben spent 4 years in this role. Managing our team of engineers and advancing not only his technical knowledge but also his management skills. Ben has grown to be a fantastic leader for our team of engineers. Which has led to his more recent promotion to Project Team Leader. This role means Ben works closely with the directors to manage customer projects.

Ben is a very valued member of our team and we look forward to seeing Ben thrive in his new role!

Rob – Senior Service Engineer

Likewise, Rob also joined us on an apprenticeship scheme back in 2016. Having completed a foundation degree apprenticeship in Science (Level 5) in Network and Security Technologies. He has since advanced into a Senior Service Engineer role. Rob works very closely with Ben on our larger projects which allows him to best utilise his extensive technical knowledge. Rob spends most of his day out of the office providing support and great customer service on-site. More recently, Rob has become a qualified Cyber Essentials Assessor. Meaning he can guide our customers throughout the certification as well as awarding certifications. Soon Rob will be attending the IASME event in London to further expand his cybersecurity knowledge.

We look forward to hearing all about his trip & the knowledge he will be able to pass on to our customers from it!

Jack – Helpdesk Engineer

Jack then joined us in 2018. Having completed an apprenticeship in Infrastructure Technician as a Level 3 certification. From there Jack then moved into a Helpdesk Engineer role. Jack is a really valued member of our Helpdesk team and we frequently receive excellent feedback from our customers about their service from him. Over the past 4 years, Jack has really come out of his shell and this is reflected in his role. Moving forwards, Jack is going to begin working more closely with the Projects Team to further advance his technical knowledge.

We look forward to seeing Jack continue to expand upon his extensive existing knowledge to help our customers further.

Carl – Helpdesk Apprentice

Carl is our most recent apprentice. Having joined us in November, he is at the start of his apprenticeship journey. Carl is currently completing a Level 3 Information Communications Technician – Azure Cloud Support Specialist apprenticeship. Carl is really beginning to find his feet within the Helpdesk team. His knowledge is growing every week and it is great to see him able to jump in with our team to solve any issues our customers may experience.

We look forward in the future to sharing Carl’s success and where his journey takes him within our company.

Here at The Unite Group, we use this week to celebrate our apprentices and those who have come from such a scheme. Apprenticeships are a great opportunity for practical learners and a good route into the technology sector. This week we join the nation in celebrating the positive impact they make on communities, businesses, and the wider economy. In the future, we look forward to welcoming more apprentices to our ever-expanding team!

February 9, 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
5 reasons to outsource your IT support

Could your business continue to run if you were to have an IT issue? For many, the answer is no! Therefore, it is essential to ensure that you have the correct measures in place to be sure that your businesses can continue to operate smoothly. In this blog, we cover 5 main reasons we recommend outsourcing your IT support to the experts – just like our team here at The Unite Group.

Reduce Costs

In 2023, more than ever it’s vital for businesses to cut costs wherever possible. Having an in-house IT support team can be costly with the average wage between £30-£40k per annum as well as all the added stress that comes with employment. By using an external provider, such as ourselves, you can enjoy affordable IT support. Here at The Unite Group, our prices start at just £25 per user covering all devices they may use.

Moreover, with no hidden fees, you can easily manage your IT expenditure. Our Managed IT Support is covered through a monthly set cost. We are transparent about our prices right from the first conversation. Meaning you won’t have any surprises or hidden fees to pay at the end of the month!

Improve Efficiency

Here at The Unite Group, we have a team of experienced engineers on hand to provide you with the highest standard of service and solve any queries that you may have. Our team are all highly qualified and participate in continuous professional development to ensure they are always up to date with the latest technology.

Therefore, you can be sure when you raise a ticket with us, your issues will be dealt with in a timely manner. Reducing the effect of any issues you may face on your business.

Prevention Services

Professional IT service providers have measures in place to actively monitor your IT systems to prevent issues before they even occur! Here at The Unite Group, we proactively manage and monitor your systems to prevent issues. Meaning we often deal with issues without you even knowing about them.

Furthermore, we also conduct regular software updates and we proactively patch your hardware to improve or update it. Ensuring all devices run on the latest versions is essential to avoid issues wherever possible. We understand that your day is often too busy to remember to check for software updates. That’s why our team of qualified engineers can complete and plan out-of-hours maintenance to keep your devices up-to-date and protected.

High-Class Service

If you have an issue you want to speak to a friendly individual rather than a bot right? Statistics suggest 90% of people prefer to speak to a live person rather than a bot simply answering frequently asked questions. Here at The Unite Group, our friendly team are on hand to answer an queries you may have. Simply enter a support ticket and a member of our team will be in touch to resolve or advise any issues you may be facing. Excellent customer service is at the heart of everything that we do. For this reason, our engineers are both responsive and reliable. Meaning you can relax knowing your IT support is in the hands of professionals.

Planning for the future

As your business grows, so must your IT infrastructure. Once you are a customer of ours here at The Unite Group, we strive to ensure that your IT services are planned to your business goals. Therefore, taking into consideration your timescales and cost planning. We ensure that your roadmap us is prepared and aligned with your business needs.

In regular meetings with our account managers and yourselves, we can discuss technology recommendations that can help grow and benefit your business and adapt your services accordingly. As well as discussing cyber security to help safeguard and protect your business. Again aiming to prevent any issues wherever possible.

Are you looking for a reliable IT provider to outsource your IT support to? Contact our friendly team today to learn more about our services and how we could support your team.

January 31, 2023
January 2023 – Newsletter

What a great start to 2023 we have had here at The Unite Group!

In this newsletter: We celebrate New Year New Roles for some of our team, Network+ announce their next event – Lock & Key Networking, we spotlight our client Gavin Forster Photography, we offer a FREE webinar to our customers, share an opportunity to work for us & showcase some new products we are now offering!

To read The Unite Group’s January 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

January 26, 2023
Why become Cyber Essentials Certified?
Introduction

The Cyber Essentials certification program is a UK government initiative that helps to protect businesses and the public sector from cyber threats. It works by providing a set of technical standards that are essential to keep your systems secure, with the goal of protecting against common vulnerabilities and attacks. The certification is designed for companies of all sizes to demonstrate they take cyber security seriously.

What is Cyber Essentials?

Cyber Essentials is a government-backed scheme that helps companies protect themselves from cyber threats. The scheme was launched in 2011 and is designed to help businesses protect themselves against the most common cyber-attacks. Cyber Essentials is a basic level of security that all businesses should have in place!

Do I Need Cyber Essentials Certification?

Cyber Essentials is a certification that the UK Government requires for all organisations working with them and other public sector bodies. It also shows your commitment to cyber security, which can be useful if you’re looking for work in this area or want to demonstrate your expertise and knowledge.

If you are involved in any kind of digital service or system, then it’s worth considering achieving this certification as a way of demonstrating your understanding of cyber security principles and good practices.

What Does Cyber Essentials Certification Mean?

Cyber Essentials is an online training program that offers a baseline level of protection to your business. By taking the Cyber Essentials certification, you will learn about:
- How to protect your company from common security threats such as malware, viruses and phishing attacks.
- What steps are necessary to secure your company’s information and systems by implementing processes like password management, patching systems and setting up firewalls.
About Cyber Essentials Certification

Cyber Essentials is becoming increasingly important for companies when choosing other businesses to work with. This is because cyber attacks are on the rise, up 27.4% in 2022 when compared to the year previous. Therefore, companies are far more likely to work with a company that can demonstrate they are taking protection against this risk.

Likewise, those who suffered attacks often found it extremely time-consuming and it had a substantial effect on their business. Therefore, businesses should not only achieve a Cyber Essentials certification for their customer’s sake. But also to protect the longevity of their business.

You don’t need to be an experienced information security professional or have any technical knowledge in order to become Cyber Essentials certified; we can help! Our in-house qualified Cyber Essentials assessors are here to assist you throughout the entire process.

Takeaway: Protect your company!

You can take the steps to ensure that your company is protected from cyber threats. You can also learn how to protect your business from cybercrime, cyberterrorism, and other similar threats. The process of becoming Cyber Essentials Certified will help you do this by giving you the skills and knowledge needed to be a more effective defender of your company’s data assets.

Conclusion

Cyber Essentials Certification is a great way to get your company started with cybersecurity. It helps you get your employees up to speed on the basics of online security and teaches them how to recognise threats and protect against them. As well as this, it demonstrates to your customers that you take data protection seriously. Giving peace of mind that you have measures in place to best protect against the most basic cybercrimes.

Could you afford for your business to fall at risk of an attack? Sign up for a quick call with a member of our cyber essentials team to learn how we can help protect your business!
January 18, 2023
Why is Cyber Essentials important for SMEs?
In this blog, we cover why achieving a Cyber Essentials certification is important for SMEs.

Introduction

Cyber-attacks are among the biggest threats facing businesses today. While the threat of cyber-attacks is nothing new, they are becoming more frequent and more sophisticated. You might have heard about some of the high profile attacks on companies like Sony Pictures or Tesco Bank, but it’s important to understand that these large organisations have teams dedicated to cyber security who can invest significant resources into protecting their systems. For SMEs however, this type of investment is not always possible or practical – which is where cyber essentials come in!

Cyber-attacks are becoming more frequent

You may have noticed that cyber-attacks are becoming more frequent, both in terms of the number of attacks and the amount of damage they cause. The falling cost of cyber-crime is also a factor: criminals can now launch damaging web intrusions for less than £1000. As a result, businesses need to be vigilant about protecting their digital assets and complying with data protection laws such as GDPR.

Cyber-attacks can harm your reputation

Without a doubt, cyber-attacks can harm your reputation. If you’re unprepared or don’t have the right systems in place to prevent them, they can damage your brand and customer service. They could even affect the relationships you have with suppliers and customers.

The importance of Cyber Essentials certification is clear: it shows that your organisation has an effective approach to protecting customer data and information security.

Cyber-attacks often result in financial loss

Cyber-attacks on small and medium sized businesses can result in a range of financial loss, including:
- Loss of confidential information
- Loss of intellectual property
- Customer data stolen/lost (e.g., names, addresses and credit card details)
- Business reputation damaged due to the impact of cybercrime on customers’ trust.
- Financial assets lost as a consequence of criminal activity or fraud committed using stolen credentials.
Cyber-attacks are not just a security issue

Cyber-attacks are not just a security issue. They can lead to financial loss and harm your reputation, as well as the reputations of your customers. Cyber-attacks are becoming increasingly frequent:
- In the UK, cyber-crime costs business £27 billion per year.
- The average cost of a data breach is $3.62 million in North America and $3.45 million in Europe (according to Ponemon Institute’s “2017 Cost of Data Breach Study”)
If you’re an SME, having cyber essentials is vital

Cyber Essentials is a voluntary, self-certification scheme to help small and medium sized businesses protect themselves from cyber threats. It’s based on the five essential controls and recommended by industry bodies such as BCS, ISACA and CIPFA.

The Cyber Essentials scheme is endorsed by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The NCSC has introduced this framework for SMEs because it’s aware that smaller organisations are less likely to have in-house expertise or resources available for maintaining good cyber security practices.

Conclusion

If you’re an SME, cyber essentials are vital to protect both your brand and your bottom line. By implementing the best strategies for lessening the impact of cyber-attacks, you can ensure that your business is as safe as possible from these threats. And when it comes down to it, there’s no reason why SMEs shouldn’t be just as prepared as larger companies – after all, they face similar risks and need just as much protection!

Are you an SME looking to achieve a Cyber Essentials certification?

Why not arrange a free consultation with our team today where we can discuss in depth the Cyber Essentials process. As well as which certification would be needed to support your business. Use the booking system below to select a time that is convenient for you.
January 12, 2023
A chat with Carl, our Helpdesk Apprentice

Carl is our newest member of our team here at The Unite Group. Having joined us just before Christmas. Carl has joined us on an apprenticeship. He will work closely alongside Chris, our helpdesk manager as well as the other helpdesk engineers.

We recently had a chat with Carl to find out a bit more about him as well as his role at The Unite Group…

Growing up, what did you want to be?

Growing up I wasn’t sure what I wanted to be. I thought I wanted to make video games but wasn’t sure if that was the industry I wanted to be a part of.

I went to college and university where I studied game-making. By the end of it, I decided that wasn’t the career for me. I then looked into apprenticeships and this seemed a good path for me.

What is your role at The Unite Group and how did you end up where you are now?

In November 2022, I applied for an apprenticeship with The Unite Group. From there I was lucky enough to start my role on the 6^th December. My role is here a helpdesk apprentice. This entails talking to customers and helping them with any technical problems they may encounter. From there creating tickets and fixing issues that arise remotely.

What does a typical day look like at The Unite Group?

With being on an apprenticeship scheme I have specific modules to work through. So currently my time is balanced between completing this work, training with some of the team on newer aspects of my role as well as taking calls from customers. Offering them support with any problems they have or escalating them on to the team.

What is your most and least favorite part of the job?

It’s hard to say at the moment with being so new in the role I am just finding my feet. I think as I build in confidence I will be able to work out the areas I enjoy the most. But it is always great to be able to resolve an issue a customer calls up with.

What is your greatest achievement?

When I was younger, I was a part of the cadets. During this time I took part in the coast-to-coast bike ride. This challenge starts in Whitehaven and finishes in Tynemouth. It took 3 days to complete but was a huge accomplishment. Therefore, this is something I am still very proud of.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

The best piece of advice that I have been given was from my late grandfather, to make your life easier try to look at the positives of everything.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

Within the next 10 years, I hope I will have worked my way up the ladder in the IT industry. This apprenticeship is just the start of my career in IT.

Outside of work, I would also really like to learn to drive. As well as this, within the next 10 years I hope to also own my own house.

How do you unwind outside of work?

When outside of work I like to unwind by playing games. I also enjoy watching movies and TV shows. Alongside this, I practice Kendo once a week.

If you would like to learn more about how Carl and The Unite Group can help you with your business technology needs, contact us on, 0191 466 1050.

Has Carl or another member of our helpdesk team resolved any of your issues recently? Why not leave us a Google review and let us know about the service you received!

https://g.page/r/CdjwcFG4AuwZEBM/review

January 4, 2023
What are the 5 Cyber Essentials?

In this blog, we cover the 5 cyber essentials elements. The Cyber Essentials certification assessment covers all 5 of these areas. Certification can only be achieved if all 5 areas are in place within a business.

Cyber Essentials

As covered in previous blogs, Cyber Essentials is a Government backed scheme. Which aims to protect your business against 80% of the most common cyber threats & attacks. Here at The Unite Group, we are a Cyber Essentials awarding body. With in-house Cyber Essentials qualified assessors. Therefore we can provide support throughout the process. As well as complete the final assessment.

The 5 Cyber Essentials

The Cyber Essentials scheme can be broken down into 5 sections. Below we cover each and explain its importance. As well as its relevance in protecting you against cyber-attacks.

Secure Configuration

This involves ensuring all your devices are using the most secure settings and software. We all know it can be easy to forget to remove software or users you no longer use. However, this is extremely important! These simple changes can protect you again potential cyber-attacks. Such changes include simply changing your passwords regularly. As well as ensuring you only have the software you use on your devices. These measures are quick to do and efficient at protecting your data from being compromised.

Software Updates

Likewise, software updates are also a very effective way to protect your data. Therefore, the Cyber Essentials scheme ensures all devices carry out updates to ensure they stay up-to-date with the latest software. Software updates not only include new features. But also security patches that protect you against the newest cyber-attacks and vulnerabilities. Cyber Essentials cannot be achieved if all devices are not kept up to date on the latest updates.

Access Control

As part of the Cyber Essentials assessment, it covers who has access to your files. Within busy businesses, this is something than can be overlooked. However, it is very important! Are you sure only those who need access to your files can? Do all your staff really need access to the files they currently can? We recommend having managed access to an administrator account. This, therefore, means you can protect who has access to your data and services.

Firewalls & Routers

Furthermore, Firewalls & Routers also make up one of the Cyber Essentials. Firewalls are designed to protect businesses from users who are not authorised from gaining access. Therefore by having a firewall in place, you create a so-called ‘buffer zone between your IT network and any other external links. Having these measures in place allows you to analyse incoming traffic. Meaning you are in complete control of who has access to your account. This massively protects your business from hackers.

Malware Protection

Malware protection is the final key part of the Cyber Essentials scheme. Using properly configured anti-malware software will protect you from viruses and other malware risks. Anti-malware software will only allow trusted applications to run which reduces the risk of unsafe applications running in the background without you knowing.

With cyber-attacks on the rise, you can’t afford to not protect your business from cybercrimes!

Are you ready to take the first steps in achieving a Cyber Essentials Certification and protecting your business?

Why not arrange a free consultation with our team today where we can discuss in depth the Cyber Essentials process. As well as which certification would be needed to support your business. Use the booking system below to select a time that is convenient for you.

Alternatively, contact us today by giving us a call or dropping us an email.

January 3, 2023
Festive season cyber threats: Are you prepared?
Have you thought about the cyber threats your business could face this festive season?

Christmas is around the corner and most businesses are beginning to unwind and prepare for the festivities. Therefore, our minds are filled with presents, wrapping, and preparing the Christmas dinner. But as we begin to let our guards down, hackers are waiting on the sidelines for their perfect time to strike.

It’s easy to get swept away in the Christmas cheer. But just because we stop doesn’t mean the cyber threats do. In fact, our downtime is a hacker’s dream and as we slow down, they get ready to attack. Have you stopped to think about the cyber threats your business could face during the holiday season?

Not to worry. We’ve pulled together some things to think about during the most wonderful time of the year. We’re outlining a few of the main cyber threats you may face throughout the festive period. This means you can feel safe and enjoy the holidays with the confidence that your business is protected.

Phishing Emails

A phishing email is a cybercrime that contacts its target via email. The sender poses as a legitimate institution to lure individuals to hand over sensitive business information. This information is then exploited or used for financial gain.

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.
It’s important to make your employees aware of phishing emails and teach them how to spot them.

Weak passwords

It’s easy to fall into the trap of using the same passwords for multiple accounts. However, this can result in leaving the business open and vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

Amongst the hustle and bustle of the Christmas period, take some time to ask yourself the important question: Are your passwords secure?

Do they have the complexity to make it difficult for cyber criminals to breach?

Before locking up the office for Christmas, 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.
Misconfiguration of Devices

When did you last configure all your devices? Is your firewall up and working properly?

It’s important to ask yourself these questions before getting wrapped up in all the festivities.

When cyber security software is updated or changed, misconfigurations become the most prevalent. This leaves your business vulnerable and open to a cyber-attack.

It is vital that your firewall is correctly configured and up to date to protect your business from hackers.

Before leaving for Christmas, double-check everything is updated and correctly configured. This means you can enjoy the holidays and have peace of mind that your business isn’t left vulnerable to cyber threats.

Cyber Essentials Certification

Here at The Unite Group, we understand the many cyber threats that businesses face day in and day out. 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.

The Cyber Essentials scheme covers 5 key areas of cybersecurity:
- Access Control
- Software Updates
- Firewalls & Routers
- Secure Configuration
- Malware Protection
The Unite Group is a certifying body of the cyber essentials scheme. If you would like to learn more about the Cyber Essentials certification, click here!

Keep an eye out in our newsroom for more blogs like this and be sure to keep an eye on our Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for updates!
December 30, 2022