Securing your supply chain against cyber threats extends beyond protecting your own data and systems; it’s fundamentally about maintaining customer trust and adhering to their diverse cyber security expectations. The challenge is in recognising these expectations and deploying effective security practices that meet the needs of all stakeholders.

Emerge Digital, in collaboration with FractalScan Surface, invites you to a comprehensive webinar designed to empower you with the knowledge to fortify your supply chain against cyber threats effectively. This session will provide you with actionable insights into:

• The critical importance of cyber security within your supply chain, illustrated with real-world attack scenarios.

• An overview of essential regulations and standards including Cyber Essentials, ISO 27001, NIST, NIS, FCA, PCI DSS, and HSCN, and their implications for your business operations.

• Expectations your customers might have regarding cyber security measures and how to align with them.

• Five straightforward strategies to enhance your cyber security posture immediately.

• Techniques for assessing the security measures of your suppliers, ensuring a collectively secure supply chain environment.

This webinar is crafted to guide you through the complexities of supply chain cyber security, offering practical solutions to align with customer expectations and regulatory requirements, thereby securing your business and enhancing customer trust.

All attendees will be offered a free scan and report from FractalScan Surface.

Date: Thursday 22^nd February 2024

Time: 10:30am – 11:30am

The Changing Landscape of Cyber Security

 

Evolution of AI Cyber Threats

Once, firewalls and antivirus software were the gold standard. They served us well against rudimentary attacks, like phishing and malware, but that playbook is outdated.

Forget simple malware. AI-driven threats are the new adversary; programs that don’t just exploit vulnerabilities but learn from your defences to circumvent them. Imagine a burglar who can adapt to every lock you buy and learns your habits to avoid detection; that’s the AI-threat reality we’re stepping into.

“Ignoring AI-driven threats is like sailing a rudderless ship in a storm. Mark my words, those who underestimate AI’s potential for disruption are setting themselves up for a cyber Waterloo.” — Tom Henson, Managing Director of Emerge Digital

 

AI Integration in Cyber Security

On the flip side, AI isn’t just the weapon of our adversaries; it’s also a potent shield. Picture an ever-alert sentry that doesn’t just spot intruders but predicts where they’ll strike next. AI can scrutinise reams of data for anomalies far quicker and more accurately than any human team could.

AI-enabled cyber security is not a panacea. Its strength – its learning ability – also requires rigorous oversight. Think of AI as a high-performance vehicle; it will get you where you need to go quickly but make one wrong move, and the consequences could be severe.

Emerging AI Cyber Threats

 

AI-Generated Phishing Attacks

In a world already swarming with phishing attempts, AI has the capability to raise the stakes exponentially. Imagine an AI algorithm so sophisticated that it customises phishing emails to each recipient, mastering nuances in language and tone that are indistinguishable from a human sender. These are not scare tactics; these are real-world scenarios that we’re increasingly coming up against.

Being hoodwinked by an AI-generated phishing attack isn’t inevitable. This is where machine fights machine. AI-driven security protocols can adapt in real-time, detecting and neutralising phishing attempts before they infiltrate your network.

“Traditional cyber defences are to AI threats what a paper shield is to a laser beam. We need advanced, AI-powered strategies that not only detect threats but also anticipate them, thereby neutralising the risk before it matures.” — Tom Henson, Managing Director of Emerge Digital

 

Automated Malware and Ransomware

Automation isn’t just for your smart home; it’s also a tool for cyber criminals. We’re witnessing the rise of self-mutating malware and ransomware, capable of adjusting their attack patterns to outwit existing security measures.

The countermeasure? A parallel evolution in automated cyber defence. For instance, integrating AI-driven analytics that adapt to new forms of malware, thereby pre-empting their insidious changes and rendering them impotent.

AI-Enhanced Social Engineering Attacks

Don’t underestimate the social factor. AI is being utilised to simulate convincing human interactions, deceiving even the most cautious among us. This isn’t science fiction; these are active threats that have fooled entire organisations.

Education remains the frontline defence against social engineering. Layer this with AI-powered behavioural analytics, and you’ve got a robust shield that doesn’t just rely on machine intelligence but augments human intuition.

 

Future-Proofing Cyber Security

 

AI and Machine Learning for Defence

The defensive arsenal is expanding. AI doesn’t just augment existing solutions; it creates new paradigms in cyber defence. From predictive analytics to real-time response mechanisms, AI is a linchpin in modern cyber security frameworks.

The Human Factor and Continuous Learning

Machines may be learning, but humans aren’t static either. The fusion of human intuition and machine intelligence creates a cyber defence mechanism greater than the sum of its parts.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

We operate in a space bound by both technological and ethical constraints. As AI technologies leap ahead, so must the laws and ethical frameworks that govern their application in cyber security.

While AI can be an indisputable asset in enhancing security, it also raises valid concerns about data privacy. Striking this balance is not just a technical challenge but a moral imperative.

“The tug-of-war between security and privacy is reaching its zenith in the AI era. Businesses that navigate this duality well won’t just survive; they’ll set the gold standard for responsible technology deployment.” — Tom Henson, Managing Director of Emerge Digital

 

Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges

 

The Road to Adaptive Cyber Security

The AI-driven landscape is in perpetual motion. We’re on the cusp of a new era where machine learning algorithms will not just be an additive to your cyber security strategy but its core component. Keeping abreast of these trends isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for survival in an increasingly hostile digital realm.

Ignorance is not bliss; it’s a security risk. To navigate the evolving landscape, you need more than cutting-edge technology. You need a culture of awareness, underpinned by continuous learning and vigilance.

“Being reactive in this ever-shifting landscape is akin to bringing a knife to a gunfight. Tomorrow’s threats are being designed today, and it’s incumbent upon us to be at least one step ahead.” — Tom Henson, Managing Director of Emerge Digital

 

Preparing for the Unknown

As we steer into unknown territories, a reactive stance won’t suffice. Pre-emptive defence is the new norm. This involves an integrated approach that pairs AI’s predictive analytics with human expertise for a more resilient defence mechanism.

Static defences are a relic of the past. In this age of AI, your cyber security strategy must be as agile and adaptable as the threats you’re guarding against. It’s an ongoing endeavour, necessitating an investment not just in technology but in skills and awareness.

 

Conclusion

We’ve ventured through the intricate landscape of AI in cyber security, identifying the rising threats and the pioneering defensive mechanisms that AI affords. There’s no room for complacency; the battlefield is evolving, and so must we. As we look to a future increasingly influenced by AI, the mandate is clear: stay vigilant, stay informed, and most importantly, stay prepared.

The Evolution of Cyber Insurance

The inception of cyber insurance can be traced back to the early days of the internet, where the risks were far less complex. However, as technology advanced, so did the sophistication of cyber threats. In turn, the underwriting of cyber insurance policies has undergone significant transformation.

In the beginning, cyber insurance was a niche offering, covering basic data breaches and computer damage. But the increasing frequency and severity of cyber incidents have prompted underwriters to expand their scope, now considering a multitude of factors such as risk management practices, implementation of security technologies, and adherence to cyber hygiene protocols.

Today, underwriters are placing greater emphasis on businesses adopting certain security technologies and best practices, making them prerequisites for reduced premiums. They are no longer merely focused on reactive measures; prevention and preparedness are key. This shift reflects a broader trend in the industry, where cyber insurance is not only about compensating for losses but also about incentivising responsible digital conduct.

 

Assess and Understand Your Risk Profile

To successfully reduce your cyber insurance premium, it’s essential to assess and fully understand your risk profile. This involves a comprehensive evaluation of your business’s vulnerabilities, exposure to threats, and current security measures.

Conduct a Risk Assessment

Begin by identifying potential weaknesses in your IT infrastructure, human factors, and operational processes. Utilising professional tools and risk assessment frameworks can provide an accurate picture of your risk landscape.

Understand Your Attack Surface

Analyse potential entry points that could be exploited by malicious actors. This may include unpatched software, insecure networks, or outdated hardware.

Evaluate Current Security Measures

Review the technologies you have in place, such as firewalls, encryption, and antivirus software. Emerge Digital’s OnyxSecure could be considered here as an example of a comprehensive solution that combines market-leading technologies for robust defense.

By taking these measures, you can create a targeted plan for bolstering your security, thereby aligning your business with the requirements of underwriters. This not only demonstrates a commitment to cyber hygiene but also opens the door to potential cyber insurance premium reductions.

 

Download your free cyber security checklist

Ready to understand your cyber risk level and learn how to improve it? Download our free ‘OnyxSecure Cyber Risk Checklist’ now! This invaluable resource will help you assess your current cyber defenses and guide you towards a safer digital future.

Click here to download.

 

Implement Robust Cyber Security Measures

Effective reduction of cyber insurance premiums requires the implementation of robust cyber security measures. By demonstrating a commitment to protecting against the ever-evolving threats in the digital landscape, your business can benefit from lower premiums. It can be as simple as being presented with a list of cyber security measures on the application form, ticking which ones you have, and seeing the premium reducing with every click.

Utilise Advanced Security Protocols

Leverage top-tier, market-leading cyber security technologies for a robust defence against threats. This includes advanced AI-based antivirus software, network security for hybrid working, and zero-trust security measures.

Regularly Update and Patch Systems

Ensure that all systems, applications, and software are kept up to date with the latest security patches. Regular updates provide protection against known vulnerabilities that could otherwise be exploited.

Engage Professional Security Monitoring

24/7 proactive monitoring and response teams can detect and neutralise threats in real-time. This round-the-clock vigilance minimises potential damage and ensures continuity of business operations.

 

Regular Training and Awareness

The human factor is often the weakest link in the cyber security chain. Regular training and awareness sessions can go a long way in bolstering your organisation’s defenses.

Develop a Comprehensive Training Program

Include topics such as phishing email awareness, data protection practices, and secure password creation. Make training a regular, ongoing process rather than a one-time event.

Foster a Culture of Cyber Awareness

Encourage all staff to take personal responsibility for cyber security. Regular communications, reminders, and updates can keep the importance of cyber hygiene at the forefront of everyone’s mind.

Leverage Tools for Continuous Learning

Utilise resources like OnyxSecure’s staff cyber security training to maintain a continuous learning environment.

 

Leverage Managed IT Services

Managed IT services play a significant role in maintaining consistent security, thereby making them an attractive consideration for insurance underwriters when you’re looking to reduce your cyber insurance premiums.

Outsource to Expert Providers

Managed IT services like those offered by Emerge Digital ensure that your security measures are always current and effective. This allows your business to focus on growth while the experts secure it.

Adopt a Proactive Approach

With 24/7 monitoring, managed IT services can detect and respond to threats in real-time. This proactive approach minimises potential damage and further aligns with the requirements of insurance providers.

Expert Insight

Understand the link between managed services and insurance premium reduction. Industry experts weigh in on how consistent, professional management of IT can lead to more favourable insurance terms.

 

Acquire Cyber Essentials Certification

Cyber Essentials is a government-backed certification that recognises robust cyber security practices. For businesses looking to further reduce cyber insurance premiums, achieving this certification can be a strong indication of your commitment to maintaining a secure digital environment.

Understanding the Certification

Cyber Essentials focuses on essential security controls, providing a baseline for cyber hygiene. This includes measures such as using firewalls, secure configurations, and regular patching of software.

The Process with Emerge Digital

We can guide your business through the certification process, ensuring compliance with all necessary criteria. Our experienced team will assess your existing security measures, recommend enhancements where needed, and assist in the documentation required for certification.

Free Cyber Insurance Coverage

By achieving Cyber Essentials Certification through Emerge Digital, you can take advantage of free cyber insurance covering up to £25,000. This provides an additional financial cushion, demonstrating the tangible benefits of investing in proper cyber security.

 

Customised Insurance Strategies

Every business is unique, and your cyber insurance policy should reflect that. Tailoring a strategy that matches your specific needs can further contribute to reducing cyber insurance premiums.

Negotiating Your Policy

Work with your insurance provider to outline your specific risk profile and security measures. Emphasise the technologies and certifications (such as Cyber Essentials) that you’ve invested in to secure your digital landscape.

Customising Coverage

Select only the coverages that are relevant to your business, avoiding unnecessary additions that might inflate your premium. This requires a clear understanding of your risk exposure and a willingness to invest in ongoing risk management.

Regular Review and Adjustment

As your business grows and evolves, so should your cyber insurance policy. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your coverage ensures that it remains aligned with your risk profile, potentially leading to further premium reductions.

 

Conclusion

Reducing your cyber insurance premium is not a one-size-fits-all task. It requires a concerted effort to understand your risk profile, invest in robust security technologies, achieve relevant certifications like Cyber Essentials, and tailor your insurance policy to your specific needs. By taking these deliberate steps, you can create a comprehensive strategy that not only safeguards your digital assets but also minimises your financial expenditure on premiums. The journey towards more affordable cyber insurance may be complex, but with the right guidance and tools, including those offered by Emerge Digital, your business can confidently navigate this landscape.

As a business leader, staying ahead of the cyber security curve is no longer optional, but essential. At Emerge Digital, we’re committed to providing the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the increasingly complex digital landscape confidently and securely. We’re delighted to present the recorded version of our insightful Cyber Security 101 Workshop, originally held on 26th July 2023.

Covering a breadth of critical topics, this workshop offers insights derived from our extensive experience and understanding of the cyber security landscape. Here’s an overview of what you can expect:

• Statutory Duties of Company Directors: Understand your legal responsibilities regarding cyber security and how to fulfil them effectively, courtesy of our friends at BPE Solicitors.
• Bad Actors: Gain a thorough understanding of who these individuals or groups are, their motives, and their methods.
• Password Security: Uncover best practices for creating and managing secure passwords.
• Phishing vs Spear Phishing: Learn about these common cyber threats, how to differentiate them, and effective prevention strategies.
• Real-World Spear Phishing Examples: Familiarise yourself with tangible examples of spear phishing, enhancing your ability to recognise such attempts.
• Ransomware: Get insights into its operation, deployment methods, and how to safeguard your business from this prevalent threat.
• Emerging Techniques in Public Places: Stay updated with the latest tricks cybercriminals use in public spaces.
• The Impact of Remote Working on Cyber Security: Discover the unique challenges presented by remote work and how to address them.
• Response to Cyber Attacks: Learn what steps to take if your business falls victim to a cyber attack.
• Simple Safety Measures: Understand easy yet effective ways to maintain cyber hygiene in your organisation.
• Cyber Security Technologies: Get an overview of the diverse range of technologies available to bolster your business’s cyber resilience.
• Cyber Insurance Requirements: Understand the role of cyber insurance in your security strategy and the latest requirements.
• Latest Changes to Cyber Essentials: Stay informed about the recent changes to Cyber Essentials and how they might impact your business.
• Available Tests, Scans, and Assessments: Explore various methods to assess and strengthen your cyber security posture.

 

To access this invaluable resource, simply fill out the form below. Take the first step in fortifying your business against cyber threats by getting the cyber security 101 lowdown, and ensure you’re equipped with the knowledge to navigate the digital world with confidence. Invest in your company’s cyber resilience today.

If you would like to explore our cyber security solutions in further depth, you can read the below website pages:

• Mobile Device Management
• ThreatLocker Zero Trust
• Next Generation Antivirus
• Data Loss Prevention
• Next Generation Firewalls
• Cloud Firewalls

Emerge Digital can undertake a comprehensive cyber security assessment for your business, looking at your systems, data, and people, searching for non-conformances, problems, loopholes and flaws. We produce a report which provides actionable tasks to improve cyber security and aid data breach prevention in your business.

About Emerge Digital

Emerge Digital is a technology and digital innovation business and Managed Services Provider (MSP) which provides solutions to SMEs that drive efficiency, competitiveness, and profit.

Using our comprehensive solutions – including outsourced IT support, cyber security, cloud infrastructure, and innovative technologies like process automation and data visualisation – we enable businesses to invest in technology that supports them in achieving their goals.

This year’s Government Cyber Security Breaches Survey reported an increasing cyber hygiene challenge among small to medium sized companies since the pandemic. The number of micro businesses using up-to-date malware protection has dropped from 81% to 74% in two years, while there are now fewer medium sized firms with security controls on devices compared to last year. In a separate report, 38% admitted to having insufficient budget to adequately protect themselves against cyber-attacks. 

As a Managed Service Provider (MSP), Emerge Digital will now incorporate Red Maple’s world-leading attack surface management solution, FractalScan Surface, into its recently launched OnyxSecure product suite, designed to bring enhanced enterprise-level cyber security to small businesses at more affordable prices.  

“Red Maple recognises the indispensable role MSPs play in protecting small businesses from the relentless threat of cyber-attacks,” said Rob Stemp from Red Maple Technologies. “Our strategy revolves around equipping businesses with a comprehensive understanding of their cyber risks. By partnering with leading MSPs, such as Emerge Digital, we aim to extend our reach and provide our state-of-the-art attack surface management platform to a significant number of SMEs.” 

The alliance marks the first time Red Maple’s FractalScan Surface will be available through an MSP with OnyxSecure backed by a dedicated team of highly certified cyber security engineers. Not only is it bringing together two companies that share a keen focus on cyber security but who also have common roots in Cheltenham’s vibrant business community, both located in the heart of the town in Eagle Tower.  

Tom Henson, Emerge Digital’s Managing Director, added: “Our shared values and vision make this collaboration with Red Maple Technologies a natural choice. It’s a testament to the innovative spirit within the Eagle Tower business community.” 

“Security shouldn’t be a privilege confined to big corporations,” continued Henson. “This partnership allows us to bring top-tier security to all businesses, irrespective of their size. We look forward to helping our clients optimise their cyber security posture through the integration of FractalScan Surface.” 

 

 

Utilising FractalScan Surface’s continuous scanning capabilities, Emerge Digital can identify and proactively manage potential risks, significantly reducing clients’ vulnerability to cyber-attacks. This partnership is built for mutual growth, with feedback from Emerge Digital’s engineers directly influencing FractalScan’s future development. 

“We’re always excited to see Eagle Tower residents collaborating and innovating together. This partnership between Emerge Digital and Red Maple Technologies exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and innovation we foster within our business community,” said Cherie Lampitt, Building Manager of Eagle Tower. “By leveraging their combined expertise, they are not only enhancing cyber security for SMEs, but also reinforcing Eagle Tower’s reputation as a hub for pioneering tech enterprises.” 

 

Press contact: Callum Gable or Verity Blake at HeadOn PR   

emergedigital@headonpr.co.uk | 01242 335246/07920 792183   

 

About Emerge Digital   

Emerge Digital is a technology and digital innovation business and Managed Services Provider (MSP) which provides solutions to SMEs that drive efficiency, competitiveness, and profit. Using comprehensive solutions, including outsourced IT support, cyber security, cloud infrastructure, and innovative technologies like process automation and data visualisation – Emerge Digital enables businesses to invest in technology that supports them in achieving their goals. 
  

About Red Maple Technologies   

Red Maple Technologies is a cybersecurity consultancy that uses its knowledge and expertise to develop innovative and cutting-edge cybersecurity products that help keep people safe online. 

Founded in 2018 by ex-defence and intelligence engineers with over 4 decades of experience, they empower their teams to look for innovative solutions to common cybersecurity challenges. This ethos led to the development of FractalScan Surface their industry leading attack surface management platform.

Located in Cheltenham England, with a London based team their location and expertise perfectly positions them to handle a variety of cybersecurity challenges. 

Finalists in the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport – UK’s Most Innovative Cyber SME 2022. To learn more visit: https://redmaple.tech