As October marks the annual Cyber Security Awareness Month for 2023 we are excited to announce a timely and ground-breaking collaboration between the National Retail Association and Ignite Systems. This will be a game-changer for small businesses and the retail sector.  

 

What is ‘Cyber’ and ‘Cyber Security’? 

The term ‘cyber’ relates to information technology, virtual reality, and computers.  

  • Cyber threats often seek to damage or steal data or disrupt the running of IT systems. 
  • Cyber-attacks are attempts to steal, expose, alter, disable, or destroy another’s assets through unauthorised access to computer systems.  
  • Cybercrime is a criminal activity that either targets or uses a computer, a computer network or a networked device.  
  • Most cybercrime is committed by cybercriminals or hackers who want to make money. It can be misused in various forms. It is also known as tech-enabled crime.  

Cyber security is the practice of defending computers, servers, mobile devices, electronic systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks.  

Cybercrime (tech-enabled crime) impacts all businesses in many ways. Attacks are opportunistic, unsophisticated, and masked to look familiar. Common types of cybercrime include: 

  • Malware – Ransomware, Viruses 
  • Credential Stealers 
  • Phishing attacks 
  • Invoice manipulation 
  • Vendor impersonation 

The impact of a cyber-attack is immediate and significant. 

  • The average cost per cybercrime reported by small businesses is $40,000  
  • Over 76,000 cybercrime reports annually – 1 every 7 minutes
Why Cyber Security Matters More Than Ever 

Every business, regardless of size, must address the escalating cyber risks. The federal government’s proposed changes to the Privacy Act add urgency to this issue, as 95% of actively trading Australian businesses will need to comply with stringent data protection measures or face penalties. 

 

Introducing Ignite Systems 

Ignite Systems is a leader in designing and delivering managed cyber security services tailored for small businesses. Their cyber security expertise is not only proven and practical but also widely acknowledged. Over two decades, they have delivered threat protection to small businesses across Australia and collaborated with a range of membership organisations, providing invaluable cyber security guides, advice, and training. 

Partnering for your Secure Future 

Our collaboration with Ignite Systems goes beyond a mere partnership; it’s a commitment to empower our small business members with the tools and resources they need to survive and thrive in an increasingly risky digital world. We are taking a proactive approach to equip you with the knowledge and solutions to successfully tackle the complexities of cyber security. 

For more details, stay tuned to our website and upcoming newsletters. Your security is our priority, and this partnership marks a significant step in ensuring it.