Business

Scams are evolving: how businesses can strengthen their email defences

Published

2 months ago

October 14, 2025

Phishing scams have evolved far beyond the poorly written emails of the past. Today, attackers use convincing language, realistic branding and even artificial intelligence to imitate legitimate companies. Their goal is to collect sensitive data or trick employees into granting access to private systems. The National Cyber Security Centre reports a steady increase in targeted phishing attempts against small and medium-sized enterprises across the UK. These scams are no longer random; they are adapted to each victim, using names, logos and phrasing that feel familiar. Businesses that underestimate these tactics risk exposing confidential data and damaging client trust.

How scams exploit communication habits

Most scams begin with something ordinary: a message that looks like a delivery update, a payment reminder or a shared document request. Because these interactions mirror daily routines, they rarely raise suspicion. Employees focused on efficiency may open attachments or click links without checking the sender. This behaviour is precisely what cybercriminals count on. Once a malicious link is clicked, an attacker can steal passwords, install hidden software or intercept further communication. Recognising the warning signs of scams and phishing is therefore a critical skill. Verifying addresses, hovering over links before clicking and reporting anything unusual are small habits that make a big difference.

Strengthening security with the right tools

The easiest way to reduce risk is to ensure that sensitive information moves through protected channels. A business email platform with built-in encryption and authentication protects messages from interception and manipulation. It guarantees that data remains confidential even if networks are compromised. Combining secure email systems with a password manager, multi-factor authentication and strict access control creates a layered defence that is difficult for attackers to bypass. Regular updates, backups and clear internal procedures further reduce vulnerabilities. By aligning technology with everyday habits, companies can transform security from a technical feature into a reliable part of their workflow.

Building a long-term defence culture

Technology alone cannot stop social engineering, which relies on human instinct and urgency. Training employees to pause before responding to requests, especially those involving payments or login details, is vital. Awareness sessions and internal campaigns about new phishing techniques help teams stay alert. Encouraging staff to report suspicious messages without hesitation creates an open culture of prevention. Clients also benefit from these efforts: a business known for protecting data builds a reputation for reliability and care. Digital trust is now as valuable as product quality or customer service. By treating every message as a potential doorway and protecting it with the same attention as financial assets, businesses can outsmart scammers who adapt faster every year. In the long run, awareness and prevention will always cost less than recovery.

Business

Holiday lets allowed to stay at Narberth dairy farm

Published

18 hours ago

December 5, 2025

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A CALL for a Pembrokeshire dairy farm to keep two “alternative” holiday pods sited without permission as a way of diversifying in an uncertain industry has been given the go-ahead.

In an application recommended for approval at the December meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Vaynor Farm Ltd sought retrospective permission for the siting of two self-catering holiday accommodation pods at The Cart House, Vaynor Farm, Bethesda, near Narberth as part of a farm diversification enterprise.

It was before committee members as it was recommended for delegated conditional approval by senior officers despite being against the development plan.

Previous retrospective schemes, for two self-catering pods along with an application to retain a shepherd hut accommodation pod at another farm, a part of the Vaynor Farm farm enterprise, were refused in 2023 and 2025, the latter due to “an unjustified and harmful impact on the character and appearance of the open countryside”.

Detailing the current application, an officer report for members said the pods: Vaynor Farm Pod within the garden of The Cart House, and The Paddock Pod, on the edge of a small paddock, were constructed off-site and have been transported to their current locations, with external decking, hot tubs, a barbecue area and car parking provided for each pod.

It added: “A business plan has been submitted with the application, which explains that due to uncertainties associated with dairy farming, the applicant has sought to diversify the farm enterprise to incorporate tourism accommodation.

“The application makes the case that the proposed development represents farm diversification. It is acknowledged that the development has resulted in the provision of an alternative type of holiday accommodation for which it has been demonstrated there is a demand, contributing to the diversity and quality of accommodation available within the county and supporting an existing farm business, with consequent economic and social benefits.

“Evidence has been provided that demonstrates the extent to which the pods have provided income which has been used to support the farm business.

“However, officers consider that should planning permission be granted, a [planning obligation] will be necessary to ensure that the accommodation pods continue to support the farm business and are not separated from it at some future point in time.”

Delegated conditional approval limiting the use and occupation of the self-catering accommodation pods to short term holiday use only was moved by Cllr Brian Hall and unanimously backed by committee members.

Business

First wind turbine components arrive as LNG project moves ahead

Published

1 day ago

December 4, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE FIRST ship carrying major components for Dragon LNG’s new onshore wind turbines docked at Pembroke Port last week, marking the start of physical deliveries for the multi-million-pound renewable energy project.

The Maltese-registered general cargo vessel Peak Bergen berthed at Pembroke Dock on Wednesday 26^th November, bringing tower sections and other heavy components for the three Enercon turbines that will eventually stand on land adjacent to the existing gas terminal at Waterston.

A second vessel, the Irish-flagged Wilson Flex IV, has arrived in Pembroke Port today (Thursday) carrying the giant rotor blades.

The deliveries follow a successful trial convoy on 25 November, when police-escorted low-loader trailers carried dummy loads along the planned route from the port through Pembroke, past Waterloo roundabout and up the A477 to the Dragon LNG site.

Dragon LNG’s Community and Social Performance Officer, Lynette Round, confirmed the latest movements in emails to the Herald.

“The Peak Bergen arrived last week with the first components,” she said. “We are expecting another delivery tomorrow (Thursday) onboard the Wilson Flex IV. This will be blades and is currently showing an ETA of approximately 03:30.”

The £14.3 million project, approved by Welsh Ministers last year, will see three turbines with a combined capacity of up to 13.5 MW erected on company-owned land next to the LNG terminal. Once operational – expected in late 2026 – they will generate enough electricity to power the entire site, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.

The Weather conditions were favourable for the arrival of the Wilson Flex IV, which was tracking south of the Smalls at midnight.

The abnormal-load convoys carrying the components from the port to Waterston are expected to begin early next year, subject to final police and highway approvals.

A community benefit fund linked to the project will provide for residents in nearby Waterston, Llanstadwell and Neyland.

Further updates will be issued by Dragon LNG as the Port of Milford Haven as the delivery programme continues.

Photo: Martin Cavaney

Business

Cardiff Airport announces special Air France flights for Six Nations

Published

1 day ago

December 4, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Direct services to Paris-Charles de Gaulle launched to cater for Welsh supporters, French fans and couples planning a Valentine’s getaway

CARDIFF AIRPORT and Air France have unveiled a series of special direct flights between Cardiff (CWL) and Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) scheduled for February 2026.

Timed to coincide with two major dates — the Wales v France Six Nations clash on Saturday 15 February and Valentine’s weekend — the flights are designed to offer supporters and holidaymakers an easy link between the two capitals.

For travelling French rugby fans, the services provide a straightforward route into Wales ahead of match day at the Principality Stadium, when Cardiff will once again be transformed by the colour, noise and passion that accompanies one of the tournament’s most eagerly awaited fixtures.

For Welsh passengers, the additional flights offer a seamless escape to Paris for Valentine’s Day, as well as opportunities for short breaks and onward travel via Air France’s wider global network.

Cardiff Airport CEO Jon Bridge said: “We’re thrilled to offer direct flights to such a vibrant and exciting city for Valentine’s weekend. Cardiff Airport is expanding its reach and giving customers fantastic travel options. We’ve listened to passenger demand and are delighted to make this opportunity possible. There is more to come from Cardiff.”

Tickets are already on sale via the Air France website and through travel agents.

Special flight schedule

Paris (CDG) → Cardiff (CWL):