Thousands of small firms in Scotland could be leaving themselves open to cyber attack because they have little or no business-grade cyber security measures in place.
The research commissioned by BT and conducted by Opinion Matters among a sample of 1,000 business decision-makers in UK businesses with up to 500 employees - including 100 firms in Scotland - during March.
With the majority of small firms moving online during the pandemic, opportunistic cyber criminals have also stepped up their efforts to target them. The UK Government’s recent Cyber Security Breaches survey found that almost half (48%) of all UK small businesses suffered a cyber security breach last year.
While most have security measures in place, BT's research revealed that 35% are relying on products designed to protect consumers rather than businesses.
The research also found 4% of small businesses in Scotland aren’t using any cyber protection at all, with this figure being even higher (17%) for micro businesses across the UK - those with up to five employees.
Alan Lees, Scotland director at BT, said: “There has been a huge shift over the past two years in the number of small firms in Scotland (27%) moving more of their business online - while that’s a really encouraging trend, being an online business can also bring its challenges, particularly around cyber security.
“It’s clear that our smallest firms need more support in this area, so today we’re launching new free cyber security tools for our BT business broadband customers, together with free online advice to help up-skill small businesses on how to stay safe online.”
Small businesses can now get free BT Content Control and BT Web Protect included with their BT business broadband. It is also offering Business Antivirus Protection, provided by McAfee, for customers placing orders for business broadband, mobile, or as stand-alone, which covers up to five desktop devices, plus unlimited mobile devices.
Don't miss the latest headlines with our twice-daily newsletter - sign up here for free.
