The first week of European Cyber Security month focused on Cyber Security in the workplace but it is not just your workplace that may leave your business vulnerable to threats such as Ransomware, Phishing, and Malware.

Small supply chain SMEs often don’t have the internal resources to ensure they are not open to security breaches, the risk of hacks or any criminal activity which may affect their business. This puts the whole chain at risk. By accessing unprotected systems at the bottom of the chain progress can be made upwards through the chain to other more lucrative targets causing havoc along the way.

Under the Be Cyber Secure programme which is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund, the County and District councils aim to make Worcestershire ‘the safest place in which to do business in the country’.

The programme will support you as an SME and your Worcestershire based supply chain to achieve Cyber Essentials Certification, a government-backed cyber security certification suitable for all organisations in all sectors. The scheme addresses five key controls that, when implemented correctly, can prevent around 80% of cyber-attacks.

We have appointed borwell Ltd in partnership with National Cyber Skills Centre and the University of Worcester to deliver a minimum of 12 hours bespoke advice and guidance to local SMEs to improve their cyber security and gain Cyber Essentials. There is no cost to the SME, in fact they can apply for a match funded grant of up to £20,000 for capital and revenue projects required to address cyber security vulnerabilities.

We are keen to work with your business and its supply chain in the way that suits you and are happy to visit to discuss the best way to engage the Worcestershire based SMEs that contribute to your supply chain. We can supply programme information to be distributed and/or attend supplier events or contact SMEs directly.

If you would like to make your  business and local supply chain more secure please contact Wendy Garrad, Project Manager on 01905 844595 or at wgarrad@worcestershire.gov.uk.