Business

Cyber security a business priority

Published

8 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

Herald expands sales team as Milford Haven growth drives demand

Published

9 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Staff Writer

THE PEMBROKEHIRE HERALD is launching a recruitment drive to bring in two new sales executives as the newspaper continues to grow its commercial operations across the county.

The move comes as the Herald strengthens its position as the leading independent news platform in West Wales, with increasing demand from local businesses looking to advertise both in print and online.

The expansion is being driven in part by the rapid growth of Milford Haven and the wider energy sector, with major investment in green energy projects, port activity and associated industries creating new opportunities for local businesses.

As the area continues to develop as a key energy hub, more companies are seeking to reach customers, partners and the wider community through trusted local media.

The successful candidates will work directly with Pembrokeshire businesses, helping them promote their services to a growing audience through the Herald’s expanding digital reach and established print readership.

Editor Tom Sinclair said the recruitment reflects both the changing local economy and the Herald’s increasing audience.

He said: “Milford Haven is expanding rapidly, particularly with new energy and green projects coming forward, and that’s creating real opportunities for local businesses.

“At the same time, our audience continues to grow across both our website and social media platforms, meaning we can now offer advertisers a much bigger and more effective platform than ever before.”

The new roles will focus on building relationships with local firms, developing advertising campaigns, and identifying new opportunities across sectors including tourism, retail, trades, energy and professional services.

The Herald has continued to invest in its digital platforms, including Herald.Wales, alongside its well-established print edition, offering advertisers a multi-platform approach to reaching customers.

The recruitment drive also comes at a time when many local businesses are looking for cost-effective ways to promote themselves amid ongoing economic pressures.

Mr Sinclair added: “Local advertising matters. When businesses advertise locally, that money stays in the local economy. It helps create jobs, supports families and helps communities grow alongside the businesses within them.”

The roles are expected to appeal to motivated, target-driven individuals with strong communication skills and an interest in media, sales or marketing.

Both positions are based in Pembrokeshire, with opportunities for training and career progression within the Herald’s growing media group.

Anyone interested in applying is encouraged to email [email protected] with a CV and covering letter before Tuesday (Apr 1, 2026).

Business

Jobs fall in Pembrokeshire as payroll numbers drop over past year

Published

12 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Employment down by 124 year-on-year with further monthly decline recorded in February

EMPLOYMENT in Pembrokeshire has fallen over the past year, with new figures showing a drop of 124 jobs compared with the same period in 2025.

Data for February 2026 reveals that 47,801 people were on payroll across the county, representing a 0.3% decrease year-on-year.

The latest monthly figures also show continued pressure on local businesses, with payroll numbers falling by 82 compared to January — a 0.2% drop.

The data, based on analysis of Office for National Statistics payroll figures by employment app WageSight, paints a mixed picture for the county’s labour market.

Compared with other Welsh local authorities, Pembrokeshire ranks 12th out of 22 for employment change, placing it in the lower half of performers.

The Herald understands that while some parts of Wales have seen modest job growth, others — including Pembrokeshire — continue to experience a squeeze on employment levels.

Paul Hebden, Director at WageSight said: “The latest figures underline the continued pressure on employment in Pembrokeshire. Payroll remains down compared with last year, and recent month-on-month data suggests employers are still cutting back.”

Nationally, employment trends remain uncertain, with fluctuations across different regions and sectors creating an unpredictable backdrop for businesses.

It remains unclear whether the recent decline marks the beginning of a longer-term trend or simply a short-term dip, but the figures suggest that employers in Pembrokeshire are continuing to act cautiously in the current economic climate.

Business

Haverfordwest cinema one of six council properties for sale

Published

22 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

SIX COUNCIL-owned properties in Pembrokeshire, including Haverfordwest’s Palace Cinema, a boatyard, and a former social services premises in Tenby, are to be put up for sale following a decision by senior councillors.

At the March 16 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members were asked to back the disposal of six properties in the county’s portfolio as well the earmarking of four properties for other purposes.

A report for members said: “The Property Department has recently undertaken a review of the council’s estate to identify underused or vacant properties that are no longer required for service delivery and could be transferred internally or disposed of to generate capital receipts.”

The report listed six assets which members were asked to declare surplus for disposal by freehold sale.

Those assets were: Iveston Farm, Maidenwells; land east of Cleddau Reach School, Llangwm; Palace Cinema, Haverfordwest; St Asaph, Trafalgar Road, Tenby – social services premises; land at East Llanion Marine, Pembroke Dock – boat yard area; and land at Maidenwells – development plot.

For those six properties, it said of Iveston Farm: “Farm homestead in need of extensive renovation. An approach to local agents will begin to market the homestead and surrounding land. The remainder of the land areas are to be re-let as part of the County Farm Estate.”

For the land east of Cleddau Reach School, it said: “Areas of land parcels that no longer form part of the school demise and offer no opportunity to the authority and is therefore to be declared surplus for disposal.”

For Palace Cinema, it said: “Freehold of property to be sold. The property is listed and requires significant investment.”

For St Asaph, Trafalgar Road, Tenby, it said: “The property is not required or suitable for other internal services and is therefore to be declared surplus for disposal.”

For East Llanion Marine, it said: “Freehold of the property to be sold. This is an area of land (0.29 acres) adjacent to Port owned land. Both parcels are leased to East Llanion Marine. The property is not required or suitable for other internal services and is therefore to be declared surplus for disposal.”

For the land at Maidenwells, it said: “The property is not required or suitable for other internal services and is therefore to be declared surplus for disposal.”

It also listed three assets in which cabinet was asked to declared surplus to the requirements of one council department and appropriated to another use within the council.

Those were: Portfield Social Activity Centre, Haverfordwest – for future education project; Eastgate Centre, Pembroke – for future re-development project; and land west of Cleddau Reach School, Llangwm – for future education project.

Members were also asked to remove one property declared surplus to council requirements, appropriated for a particular use within the council: Pembroke Dock Watersports Centre – Watersports centre in occupation.

Members backed the 10 recommendations.