Cyber security is about protecting your computer-based equipment and information from unintended or unauthorised access, change, theft or destruction.

Good cyber security can enhance the reputation of your business and open up new commercial opportunities.

Most companies now use the internet to do business, to advertise and sell, find new markets, customers and staff, communicate with customers and suppliers, and carry out financial transactions.

The internet brings huge business opportunities and benefits. But it also brings risks. Every day there are attacks on the IT systems of UK companies like yours, attempting to steal your information and money, or disrupt your business. You can never be totally safe, but most online attacks can be prevented or detected with basic security practices for your staff, processes and IT systems.

These security practices are as important as locking your doors or putting your cash in a safe. You can manage your online security in the same way you would protect any other aspect of your business. With more customers demanding that their suppliers are secure, this is becoming a business necessity.

This guidance provides you with a good practice foundation for business owners and managers. You’ll find links to other sources of good advice at the end of this booklet if you need them. You don’t need to be an IT expert to improve your security. Simple measures can make all the difference. Take the simple steps set out in this booklet and your business will benefit. You can save money through adopting an efficient risk management approach – plan, implement and review. You can gain a competitive advantage by being seen to take security seriously – gaining the Cyber Essentials badge will help you do this.

Good security can be an enabler for a thriving business: you will be protecting your assets, your reputation, your customers, and your peace of mind.

The government has launched a certification scheme for businesses to demonstrate to their customers they are “cyber safe”. The scheme is called “Cyber Essentials”.

The government has also produced a small booklet for small businesses “what you need to know about cyber security” https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cyber-security-what-small-businesses-need-to-know

HM Government £5,000 Innovation Vouchers are available which can be used by firms for advice to help protect and grow their business by having good cyber security. https://vouchers.innovateuk.org/cyber-security