Security guide for small businesses

Manufacturers are more concerned than any other commercial sector about the impact of theft or loss of customer or supplier data on their businesses. 70% believe it would have an extreme impact, according to a survey commissioned by information security firm Symantec. That compares to an average of 51% for other markets, such as financial services, retail, distribution and transport. It finds 73% concerned about network viruses while 15% worry about hackers and 9% about ensuring that customer and company data storage meets legislation. Symantec’s research suggests that while 80% of firms are probably adequately protected, SMEs are only addressing basic security needs and are becoming increasingly overwhelmed. “There’s no doubt that security is becoming more complicated, with simple viruses disappearing and being replaced by more complex and much more damaging so-called ‘blended threats’,” says Lee Sharrocks, small business manager at Symantec. “These use multiple methods to spread – email, holes in software, spam, or the simple act of downloading something off the Internet. “Unfortunately, traditional antivirus software alone is no longer enough to stop them. It’s hard enough for big businesses to keep up, let alone smaller companies that are unlikely to have the expertise or the resources in-house to handle these problems. “In addition to managing the threats facing their businesses, small business owners need to understand the regulations and legislation surrounding the security of private data. Keeping data secure is about more than just technology.” For that reason, Symantec has launched a free booklet. The guide, entitled ‘IT security for small businesses’, outlines the risks that many businesses face and advises on how these can be addressed cost-effectively and with minimum disruption. Copies are available at: http://www.symantec.co.uk/smallbusinessbook