The average UK accountancy firm could face losing 10% of their turnover (£8,460) in costs due to lost data or assets after a cyber security breach.

It’s an important reminder to us all that cybercriminals do not discriminate between small, medium and large accountancy firms. To help accountancy firms in the North West, we’ve launched a dedicated support page, for the accountancy sector.

If you're looking to strengthen your resilience against cyber attacks we can provide a range of affordable, professional cyber security services that help you accountancy firms assess, build and manage your firm's cyber security capabilities, build confidence in your staff, understand your vulnerabilities and secure your business.

“It is important to ensure that your employees receive ongoing training in identifying scams, particularly those working in accounts payable, as the consequences of falling for Invoicing fraud can inevitably result in redundancies and the closure of businesses. Businesses should look to foster a culture of fraud awareness within their workplace in order to reduce the associated risks." - Jade Hutchinson FCCA, Forensic Accountant, GMP

What threats do accountants face?

• Cybercriminals want to exploit the personal and financial data that accountants use daily, they view accountants as a gateway to sensitive information from their clients
• Accountants should be aware of phishing emails and text messages sent during busy periods of the year - such as the end of a tax year.
• Many accounting firms all use similar computer software, if a cybercriminal can find a vulnerability, they will have an opportunity to attack a large number of accountants.

Would your accountancy firm pass a Cyber Health Check? Our Cyber Health Check can help by giving you an action plan to help protect your firm and your clients against the latest cyber threats.