The government has urged businesses to boost their online resilience after a study warned the pandemic has heightened the risk of cyber security breaches.

Data from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport’s 2021 Cyber Security Breaches Survey found that 39% of businesses reported cyber security breaches or attacks in the last 12 months. While this was slightly lower than the previous year’s figure, other evidence from the study suggests the cyber risk level is higher than ever.

This heightened risk predominantly relates to the pandemic, which has made it harder for firms to administer cyber security measures. For instance, fewer businesses are now deploying security monitoring tools or undertaking any form of user monitoring. In addition, 47% of businesses said staff are currently using personal devices for work, even though only 18% have a cyber security policy on how to use such devices at work.

Firms are being encouraged to follow the free help and guidance available from UK cyber security experts at the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) website. Businesses can find advice on a range of issues, including the secure use of video conferencing, secure home working and how to move a business from physical to digital.

For the latest information on COVID-19 and the measures the government are taking visit the government website.