New research suggests Australian small businesses regard cyber security as either a high priority, or not a priority at all, potentially making them more vulnerable to scams, fraud and other types of crime.
Nearly half of Australian small businesses (45 per cent) don't see themselves as likely targets for cyber criminals, a perception that could end up costing them dearly, while the other half (50 per cent) regarded cyber security as a high priority, according to new research commissioned by the
The research, which surveyed around 2,100 small businesses, found that even those who worry about their online safety aren't necessarily taking steps to address cyber threats, with 4 in 10 small businesses having little to no confidence in their ability to respond to a cyber threat.
This is despite the fact Australian small businesses face cyber threats every day, according to
'Some of the most common scams targeting businesses, such as Business Email Compromise and Remote Access Scams, depend on a business having low levels of cyber security measures in place and low levels of awareness among staff around how these attacks occur,'
'Small businesses are generally very time-poor and have fewer resources to invest in sophisticated cyber protection, and this can make them an easier target and the impact can be devastating, not just financially speaking but emotionally as well.'
Encouragingly, an overwhelming majority of small business owners and employees (86%) express a keen interest in a program that is easy to access and simplifies cyber security. Research results will help inform the national delivery of the Cyber Wardens program, which is done in partnership between COSBOA,
But as
'This is why at
'One of the ways we help our customers upskill in this area is through our partnership with COSBOA and the Cyber Wardens program, which is all about upskilling small businesses in cyber safety.'
COSBOA CEO
'Investing in cyber security training and tools is essential to help protect your small business, staff and clients. With Cyber Wardens we've made that training free and easy for small businesses.'
According to
'No one is immune from the threat, which is why cyber security must be a team sport and a permanent mindset. Building support with a strong team culture where cyber security is everyone's responsibility is critical.'
For more on CBA's scam and cyber security for business, visit CommBank Safe.
Read the Building a culture of cyber safety in Australian small businesses Cyber Wardens research report.
About Cyber Wardens
Cyber Wardens is a national initiative of the
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