Welcome to this week’s Tax agent blog which starts with a question:
How many UK businesses do you think identified at least one cyber security breach or attack in the last 12 months?
- 1 in 10
- 2 in 10
- 5 in 10
It was 5 in 10.
The recent Government Cyber Security Breaches survey showed that though businesses are more aware than ever before, many must prepare.
Cyber security starts with the basics;
- Software updates
Install the latest software and app updates; they contain vital security updates, which help protect your devices from viruses and hackers
- Passwords
Use a strong and separate password for your email (using three random words to create a strong password); hackers can use your email to access many of your personal accounts
- Two factor authentication
When available use two-factor authentication or two step verification for your most important accounts as an extra layer of security.
You can find more information about Cyber Security at Cyber Aware. This is a cross government website, which provides information based on expert advice from the National Cyber Security Centre, part of the Government Communications Headquarters.
You can also find information about protecting your login details and reducing the risk of fraud when using HMRC Online Services, at HMRC's online security information for agents.
