The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is the UK’s technical authority on cyber security.

It has recently launched the latest phase of the Cyber Aware campaign, aiming to help sole traders, micro businesses and small organisations stay safe online.

Last year, 81% of businesses that reported an email or social media hack were small or medium businesses, and the average annual cost of a cyber attack for micro and small businesses was £3,080.

That’s why the South East Cyber Resilience Centre is supporting the NCSC in urging small business owners to take two free and simple steps to help protect themselves from a variety of cyber threats:

1. Get your free Cyber Action Plan.

- Answer a few simple questions, and in less than five minutes, a tailored list of actions will be served to help protect your organisation.

2. Use the quick and easy tool, Check Your Cyber Security service.

- This scans internet-connected devices for common vulnerabilities to ransomware and other viruses, provides advice on how to mitigate any risks and lets you know if your browser is up to date.

For further information on NCSC advice and guidance for sole traders and small business owners please visit NCSC’s Small and Medium Organisations page and the NCSC Small Business Guide.