Bournemouth University Cyber Security Unit (BUCSU) is to host a forum on cyber security in collaboration with Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
On Tuesday 15 September 2015 local businesses and academics will get together to discuss the current threat landscape on cyber-attacks and IT security.
Cyber-attacks have become one of the most significant risks facing the UK economy, costing billions of pounds each year. Generally the incidents that hit the headlines are those which have targeted house-hold names however most cases are never made public, if even reported as a crime in the first place.
Hackers are becoming more focussed and persistent in their attacks. Large businesses are investing heavily in cyber security pushing many of the hackers down through the supply chains to smaller businesses which are more vulnerable.
A confidential questionnaire will be handed out in advance of the forum for businesses to talk openly about breaches in security. BUSCU say that sharing such information will help businesses be more prepared against cybercrime.
Data breaches can be prevented with appropriate analysis, information and collaboration, and sharing information is the first step in understanding and preventing future breaches.
Dr Christopher Richardson who is the Head of the BU Cyber Security Unit said: “We are conscious that SMEs may not be in a position to fully fund IT security standards through Cyber Essentials [a government-backed scheme] or ISO 27001 [information security management software]. In support of this we will shortly be launching through the forum, a free online vulnerability test which will be able to identify IT security issues that may put SME’s at risk. We can then provide guidance on how to mitigate these risks”
Additionally, the forum will provide a sharing platform of the types of attacks businesses are currently facing.
Open to DCCI members only, the forum will cost £5 to attend and will run from 8am – 10am at Bournemouth University, including breakfast.
To attend and complete the anonymous questionnaire visit: http://www.dcci.co.uk/events/cyber-security-forum
“Cyber Security is a key issue for businesses and one that is becoming increasingly important as technology – and both the opportunities and threats this offers – develops at an incredible rate. “Cyber criminals are becoming more and more sophisticated and it is essential businesses seek to protect themselves and shore up their businesses against the threats and dangers of cybercrime. Working with DCCI Business Partners and leading cyber security experts Bournemouth University, we are delighted to offer this new forum to our members to help them protect themselves and gain valuable information in this very important area.”
IAN GIRLING, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF DCCI