Business

Cyber security a business priority

Published

7 years ago

March 13, 2018

Cyber security: Greater connectivity brings greater risks

HUMAN error remains the leading cause of data breaches – and these breaches cause organisations a great deal of financial and reputational damage.

In a study published in the Journal of the Association for Information Systems, researchers noted the following: “A leading cause of security breaches is a basic human vulnerability: our susceptibility to deception. Hackers exploit this vulnerability by sending phishing emails that induce users to click on malicious links that then download malware or trick the victim into revealing personal confidential information to the hacker.”

When it comes to improving your organisation’s ability to guard against cyber threats, the best defensive strategy is creating a cyber security culture in the workplace.

Think back in time to the office of 2007, when the only devices connected to your company’s IT network were likely to have been office computers and perhaps a few USB flash drives.

Ten years on, and a huge increase in Wi-Fi enabled devices and the ‘Internet of Things’, the picture has completely changed. These days it’s not uncommon for staff to connect their smartphones to the company Wi-Fi or perhaps bring in their own laptop or tablet if a company has a BYOD (bring your own device) policy. Most hardware in an office, for example printers and TVs, is Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth enabled too.

A recent report by Forbes has estimated that by 2025 there will be more than 80 billion active smart devices connected to the internet worldwide – meaning the connected world is only set to grow.

While the connectivity of the ‘Internet of Things’ can be convenient and time-saving, it also has a more sinister side. Such devices provide cybercriminals with an avenue of attack, access and compromise. This can present a problem for many businesses as it can be difficult to keep track with who is using what device.

The real danger is that unsecured devices can act as bridges for cybercriminals meaning they can easily cross into the territory of a business’s sensitive data. Such attacks can cause serious consequences with both financial and reputational repercussions and, in some cases, can potentially cripple a company for days, weeks or even months.

WHAT’S THE SOLUTION?

For your business to implement a robust security programme, it’s no good relying on the IT department alone – everyone from senior management down needs to be on board.

Senior management that treat cyber security as a high priority is on average more likely to say that its core staff take it seriously (88% versus 76% overall), according to the Cyber security breaches survey 2017.

Whilst ridding your workplace of Wi-Fi enabled devices is clearly unrealistic, the good news is your network can be re-engineered to ensure devices are ring-fenced and secured.

Your cyber security strategy is only as strong as your weakest link.

Organisations need to make sure that every employee is aware of the potential threats they face, whether it’s a phishing email, sharing passwords or using an insecure network.

Protocol should be clearly outlined and followed by all employees, emphasising for example the importance of keeping sensitive information off portable devices.

Regular staff training is vital to keep your network safe.

Remember, the majority of cyberattacks – over 90% – are the result of human error. And, of course, consulting the expertise of a specialist cyber security consultant is always highly recommended.

Sadly, there’s no business or organisation in the world that can claim to be 100% protected against ransomware and other malicious software.

But with a regularly updated security policy, supported by appropriate backup, data recovery and ongoing staff training, it’s possible to mitigate against such attacks, keeping downtime to a minimum and, most crucially, keeping your data secure.

Business

Residents meet with local politicians over A477 road safety concerns

Published

1 day ago

January 18, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MEMBERS of the Eglwyscummin Community Council and residents of the village of Red Roses today (Friday 17^th January) called a road-side meeting with local politicians Samuel Kurtz MS, Cefin Campbell MS and Ann Davies MP to highlight what they consider to be an ‘unsafe’ junction.

Growing concerns about the safety of the Red Roses junction brought about by the increase in near misses and accidents from users of the junction was evidenced during the meeting. The community hope that continued pressured on Welsh Government will deliver the additional safety modifications needed to reduce the number of incidents happening at the junction.

The local Member of Senedd for Carmerthen West and South Pembrokeshire, Samuel Kurtz, has been leading the campaign with the Community Council and has been liaising with SWTRA and Welsh Government Ministers to call for action on this junction.

He has already delivered a successful campaign to change the road layout of the notorious A477 Nash Fingerpost junction following several serious accidents, which is already being of real benefit to the local community. He hopes to build on this success by continuing to fight for further improvements in Red Roses and address the speeding issues being experienced on the A477 through the village of Milton.

Following the community meeting, Samuel Kurtz MS commented: “The Community Council have been extremely active in sharing the experiences that drivers are having at this junction and have put forward some recommendations that they believe will make it safer. Sadly, it’s a typical case of the junction meeting all the criteria on paper, but in practice, it’s dangerous and needs addressing.”

“ In this case, traffic travelling Westward towards Pembroke at speed have no turn off lane before having to slow down to virtually a standstill to make the narrow sharp lefthand turn off the A477 to Red Roses. On this fast busy road, it has been the root cause of the sign being crashed into on several occasions as drivers have failed to make the turn. There are crashes or near misses, as cars break sharply to try to make the turn as safely as possible.”

He added: “I believe that there are some relatively straight forward steps that can be taken which will deliver improvement and I’ve been asking Welsh Government for a review of the A477 and will invite road officials to see for themselves the junction in use. But I do need feedback from the local community to help make the case to Welsh Government. I’m asking people to get in touch with me via my Facebook page or email to share their experience, opinion, or example of any issues they may have had or witnessed using this stretch of road.”

Pictured above: Members of the Eglwyscummin Community Council at the road-side meeting with local politicians Samuel Kurtz MS, Cefin Campbell MS and Ann Davies MP discussing safety concerns at the Red Roses junction.

Business

Haverfordwest Farmers Market: Local producers and fresh produce

Published

1 day ago

January 18, 2025

Tom Sinclair

AS County Councillor for Castle Ward, Thomas Tudor expressed his delight after visiting the Haverfordwest Farmers Market. Held in Castle Square, the market showcases a variety of high-quality local produce, offering a vibrant community shopping experience.

Fresh produce every Friday

The Haverfordwest Farmers Market takes place every Friday from 9:00am to 2:00pm in the heart of Pembrokeshire’s bustling county town. Visitors can explore a wide range of stalls offering fresh produce, meats, crafts, and organic goods directly from local farmers, growers, and artisans.

Market Manager Joanne Welch explained: “Customers enjoy a memorable shopping experience in a vibrant, friendly atmosphere, have confidence in the producers, their products, and can always rely on the high-quality produce available at every market.”

Why shop local?

The market serves as a hub for supporting local businesses and reducing food miles. “Buying local makes sense,” Joanne continued. “Not only does it benefit the local economy, but it guarantees the freshest produce that is great value for money—and tastes fantastic too!”

What you need to know

Purpose: Farmers markets provide a unique opportunity to connect with local producers while enjoying fresh, quality food. Supporting these markets ensures a sustainable future for local farmers and reduces the environmental impact of long food supply chains.
Hygiene standards: Stallholders adhere to the same strict hygiene regulations as other food retailers, ensuring safety and quality for customers.
Cost: While prices may not always be cheaper, the quality and freshness of the products offer excellent value for money.

For those looking to enjoy a unique shopping experience, Castle Square in Haverfordwest is the place to be every Friday. Explore the best of Pembrokeshire’s local produce and craft while supporting your community.

Business

Samuel Kurtz MS raises awareness of Asda Foundation local grant opportunities

Published

1 day ago

January 18, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SAMUEL KURTZ MS has called on local grassroots organisations in Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire to apply for new grant funding opportunities from Asda’s charity, the Asda Foundation.

The Asda Foundation has announced up to £500,000 of funding to help transform and improve community spaces across the UK. Grants awarded will be worth between £500 and £3,000 and are aimed at helping grassroots groups improve or transform their local outdoor community spaces. Funding can be used to transform an outdoor area, create or enhance community growing projects, and enable community clean ups.

This is the first in a series of grants that the Asda Foundation will deliver in 2025, with over £3m of funding to be made available to grassroots community groups. Information for groups on how to apply is available here: https://asdafoundation.org/our-grants/outdoor-community-spaces-fund/

Karl Doyle, Chair of the Asda Foundation, says: “Over the last year, our research has consistently told us that local communities are seeking better access to safe and accessible public spaces. We know that being outdoors has a positive impact on health and wellbeing, and that that bringing people together to be part of a group and community makes a significant difference to people’s lives. This grant provides funding support for groups to do just this, and we hope it will also help build community connections and help grow pride in communities across the UK.’’

Samuel Kurtz MS added: “ This funding scheme from the Asda Foundation provides a great opportunity for local groups to really come together to improve their local community and outdoor environment. I encourage any groups that may have an idea about how this money could be put to good use to find out about the application process as soon as possible. Given the deadline of the 11^th February for this round of funding it is vital that applications are submitted in good time. It would be fantastic to see as many local bids as possible so that communities right across Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire can benefit from this scheme.”

Photo caption: Samuel Kurtz Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire pictured at the ASDA store in Pembroke Dock.