Real World Security & Insights
Welcome to Sharp’s Real World Security hub. Here we're sharing real, everyday cyber security insights.
Switched on to security
Nearly all businesses are digitally connected today. We exchange emails, operate over shared Wi-Fi networks, leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) – we even join meetings, classes, or appointments virtually. With that in mind, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) today are susceptible to the growing threat of cyber attacks. In fact, one-quarter of UK SMEs admit to being breached in some form, yet nearly 60% say their IT security budget will not increase this year.
Attacks seriously hinder the running of a business. And no matter the type of your SME – whether you construct buildings or work on your laptop from them – there are real risks that can have serious implications.
Using insights from SMEs across the UK, we have created content to help you understand security risks, break down the complexity around them, and find ways to stay protected.
SME Cyber Security: Exploring the confidence gap
Feeling risk-ready isnʼt the same as being protected. Our research uncovered a tension around SMEs feeling well-prepared for cyber threats but lacking confidence in their defence. In this article, we discuss how to ensure your business is truly prepared and protected.
AI's Impact on Cyber Security and Data Privacy
Against a challenging economic backdrop, well-publicised cyber attacks and the evolution of Artificial Intelligence, concerns about Cyber Security are rife.
Our research tells us that a third of business had their operations impacted by a Cyber Security breach. These breaches included phishing (31%), malware (30%), data loss (30%) and computing virus attack (25%). But there are also new threats surfacing like Artificial Intelligence.
That's why this Cyber Security Awareness month, we're hosting a panel webinar, discussing the impact of Artificial Intelligence on Cyber Security.
The Positives and Negatives of AI for Education
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT are already making a difference in schools, and although AI is improving the quality of education, more work is needed to understand the potential risks that this technology could bring.
Building a Security Aware Culture
34% of SMEs are concerned that their employees not following training and guidelines is impacting the effectiveness of their IT security.
That's why it's crucial to build a security-aware culture within your organisation. Read our helpful blog to find out more.
Cyber Security Insights: SME Security Infographic
SME organisations of all types and sizes have to navigate a complex security landscape. In fact, one quarter admitted to being breached in the last 12 months.
To get the full picture, Sharp conducted research with 5,770 IT decision makers in SMEs from 11 European countries; uncovering rising concerns over security risks and the steps and obstacles they need to overcome to see improvements.
Explore the UK results.
Real risks: Cyber protection for real world working
In a digitally-connected world, robust cyber security is crucial. We explored the real risks out there, the top concerns of an attack – and what businesses can do to stay secure.
Complex Security terms, simplified
There are a whole lot of terms used today in cyber security. While building a robust digital defence is already a big enough challenge for many SMEs, understanding all the complex jargon that comes with it is another. To make things a little easier, and to help you protect your business, we’ve simplified some of the most common cyber security terms.
Key findings from SMEs across Europe
Find out more about how our Security services and solutions can support your business.
