In the digital age that we live in, many companies now do the majority of their business online using computer systems and networks which link them to all corners of the globe.

Although this instant connectivity enables businesses to operate at the touch of a button, the increased use of digital channels and platforms also carries many risks.

As technology continues to evolve, so does cybercrime and the way criminals tap into computer and security systems for their own gain.

Unsophisticated cyber attacks have never been easier as it’s not illegal to hire a hacker and individuals inside and outside businesses can use the dark web to buy, download and use malware.

And now sophisticated cyber attacks are on the increase as more opportunities open up for cyber criminals to exploit security weaknesses through voice fraud and crypto mining.

But while cyber security is something which businesses need to take very seriously in order to mitigate risk, combat crime and protect their future, many are still not taking it seriously enough.

Businesses continue to invest in technical defences such as email filtering and antivirus software or enable more external audits of their business to be carried out.

These may provide a certain level of protection and offer some benefits but relying on these alone still leaves them very vulnerable to the cybercrime threat.

So what can businesses do to protect themselves?

Human firewalls are the best way to effectively protect against cyber attacks and employees can be educated to keep their business safe from malicious sources.

Businesses need to create a security culture which runs throughout their organisation by ensuring staff update passwords regularly and use software appropriately.

But many employees are too busy doing their own day-to-day roles in the business without having to worry about guarding against external threats.

As a result, more companies are looking to upskill staff in this area or take on new employees to act as the first line of defence in cyber security.

Cyber security is now an area which is growing four times faster than any other IT sector such is the demand for these roles.

These employees are responsible for analysing vulnerabilities in security infrastructure and developing ways to combat cyber threats for businesses which know they are under-prepared for potential attacks.

They can help businesses to understand the dangers and make sure that they are much better placed to mitigate risk.

This could be the perfect opportunity for you to upskill staff in this area or bring in new employees to make sure your business is well placed to face future security challenges head on.

If you would like to find out more about apprenticeships, please contact our Employer Engagement Team on 07468 724619 or email employers@coventrycollege.ac.uk