Why Smaller UK Companies Should Use Part-Time Senior Cyber Professionals

In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity is no longer a concern exclusive to larger organisations. Smaller organisations are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats, with nearly a third of small businesses reporting cyber-attacks in recent years. The evolving nature of these threats, particularly with the rise of AI-generated attacks, makes it crucial for small businesses to bolster their cybersecurity defences. One effective strategy for managing cyber risk is to engage part-time senior cyber professionals, such as a fractional or virtual Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).

The Cybersecurity Challenge for Small Businesses

Small businesses often lack the resources to establish a dedicated cybersecurity team. According to recent surveys, about 50% of UK businesses face a basic cybersecurity skills gap due to difficulties in recruiting IT professionals. This gap leaves them exposed to a wide range of threats, from phishing to AI-driven attacks. Phishing, in particular, remains a prevalent threat, accounting for around 80% of cyber-attacks. Smaller companies often rely on their existing technical team to also secure their technology. As such, in-house or outsourced technical resources can struggle to deliver the appropriate cyber security outcomes as they often have competing priorities such as project delivery and running the day to day technology operations which means your cyber security may not be prioritised.

The Rise of AI-Generated Threats

AI-Generated cyber threats have become the top concern for UK PLC this year, surpassing traditional threats like malware and ransomware. While AI is currently more of an enabler for existing threats rather than a facilitator of new ones, its potential to amplify the sophistication and efficacy of attacks like phishing is significant, especially to under resourced SMBs. This fast changing and evolving landscape necessitates expertise that can adapt to these emerging risks.

Benefits of Part-Time Senior Cyber Professionals

Engaging part-time senior cyber professionals, such as a virtual or fractional CISO, offers several benefits:

  • Expertise on Demand: Virtual CISOs bring instant experience and strategic leadership to your cybersecurity efforts without the need for a full-time hire. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that do not require constant cybersecurity oversight but need high-level guidance periodically.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Outsourcing cybersecurity leadership can be more cost-effective than hiring a full-time team. It allows small businesses to access top-tier expertise without substantial upfront investment, which is crucial given the financial constraints many SMEs face.
  • Compliance and Governance: Part-time senior cyber professionals can ensure that your business remain compliant with industry regulations such as GDPR and PCI DSS, which is often challenging for small businesses to manage on their own.
  • Proactive Incident Response: In the event of a breach, having a plan in place and the necessary support to respond swiftly can minimise downtime and reputational damage. Part-time professionals can help develop and maintain these strategies.

Practical Steps for Small Businesses

To effectively manage cyber risk, small businesses should consider the following steps:

  • Assess Your Current Security Posture: Conduct an assessment of your existing cybersecurity measures to identify potential gaps and vulnerabilities.
  • Engage with Cyber Essentials: Ensure that basic cybersecurity controls are in place and consider applying for the Cyber Essentials certification, which can help prevent common attacks.
  • Consider Outsourcing Cybersecurity Services: Leverage Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) to access advanced threat detection and incident response capabilities or Virtual CISOs to obtain the Cyber leadership and strategy to compliment your existing team.

In the face of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, SMBs must prioritise their cybersecurity. Engaging part-time senior cyber professionals offers a fast, flexible and cost-effective way to enhance cybersecurity defences without the need for an expensive full-time team. By leveraging this expertise, SMEs can better protect themselves against emerging threats and maintain a robust cybersecurity posture in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

By engaging with Somniac Security, our Virtual CISO’s can help you build and maintain the appropriate strategies and processes for your organisation which enable you to effectively manage your cybersecurity risks.  Contact us at info@somniacsecurity.com today to help safeguard your business against tomorrow’s challenges!