Five steps to protect against cyber attacks

The threat of cyber attack is no longer theoretical. For independent merchants and suppliers, the shift to online ordering, digital invoicing and remote working has created new opportunities for the way we work, but it has also opened doors for cyber criminals. GCHQ says that ransomware attacks on businesses in the UK have reached their highest levels ever, with at least one major incident reported every day.

Whether you’re managing accounts, storing customer details or coordinating with suppliers, a breach in your systems can bring operations to a standstill for days or even months and potentially damage the company’s reputation. That’s why the independent merchanting industry needs to make cybersecurity a core part of its business planning processes.

Based on our experiences, here are five steps to help you build your own cybersecurity strategy and stay protected against today’s evolving threats.

1. Start with your people

The most common weak point in any business isn’t the firewall – it’s human error. A single email clicked by mistake can allow malware to spread across your network. That’s why your first line of defence should always be staff awareness.

Make it easy for employees to spot suspicious activity. Offer training on phishing emails, reinforce simple rules like never forwarding unverified messages to others, and create a clear reporting process for anything that feels unusual. Regular refreshers can make a big difference to the security of your business.

2. Follow recognised cyber standards

Merchants and suppliers operating in the UK should work towards achieving Cyber Essentials or Cyber Essentials Plus. These are two Government-backed frameworks developed by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). These provide a step-by-step audit of your systems and identify weaknesses in your defences. Cyber Essentials Plus goes one step further and includes a hands-on assessment from an external auditor.

For businesses trading internationally, ISO 27001 is a globally recognised standard for Information Security Management Systems that provides a similar level of credibility for international customers. Whichever you need to do, these standards help give your key stakeholders greater reassurance that your systems are protected, and so is their personal information.

3. Make a proactive response plan

Cyber attacks can escalate quickly. Having a clear plan in place makes all the difference.

Your response plan should identify which systems are critical, where your backups are stored, and how you will keep trading if your digital tools are affected. Test your backup systems regularly and make sure your team knows who to contact, both internally and externally, if you are targeted.

At NMBS, we carried out a simulation of a cyber-attack this year. This exercise helped expose gaps in our current processes and provided the team with experience of an attack, without the real-world impact. It is a powerful way to prepare the wider business for the worst scenario, not just your IT team.

4. Stay informed on current events

Cyber criminals operate globally, and developments in geopolitics can have an immediate impact on threat levels in the UK. During the early stages of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, for example, cyber threat levels rose rapidly as the unrest grew.

Websites like Ransomware.live show active ransomware incidents around the world, including notes, demands and even conversations with victims. These resources could help you understand just how sophisticated modern cyber gangs have become and check that your business is protected against the real-world threats that are currently ongoing.

Make it someone’s job in your business to stay informed. The NCSC publishes regular alerts and guidance specific to construction and merchant businesses. Their 10 Steps to Cyber Security collection is a great starting point for improving your defences and knowledge.

5. Keep systems and software up to date

Outdated operating systems and unpatched software are common entry points for attackers. Windows 10, for example, is reaching end-of-life and will soon stop receiving security updates.

Set regular reminders to review the software across your business. That includes not only your desktops but also any third-party plug-ins, point-of-sale apps, customer management systems and digital tools, like AI assistants or browser extensions.

In general, cybersecurity doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does need to be planned and proactive. The sooner you start, the more resilient your business will be.

NMBS is committed to helping merchants and suppliers navigate their own cybersecurity journey. If you have questions about the Cyber Essentials audit process or would like to better understand areas of cybersecurity, feel free to reach out to our team.