Five cybersecurity tips you can implement today

The North East Regional Cyber Crime Unit (NERCCU) team has put together five actionable tips that businesses can implement straight away to enhance cybersecurity.

These tips are just as valuable for personal digital safety as they are for businesses.

1. Keep backups up to date

Think of your data as the lifeblood of your business. Losing access to it could be catastrophic. To avoid this risk, ensure all critical data is backed up regularly. Ideally, store these backups off-site or in the cloud to protect against physical threats like fire or theft. It’s also important to test your backups regularly to confirm they work as expected. There’s nothing worse than discovering they’re useless when you need them most.

2. Use strong, unique passwords

Passwords are your first line of defence. Weak ones are the easiest for attackers to crack. Make sure your employees understand the importance of using strong passwords and implement policies to support this. A simple yet effective approach is the NCSC’s three random words policy. By combining three unrelated words, such as AppleTableSun for example, you create passwords that are both secure and easy to remember.

3. Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

If a strong password is your first defence, two-factor authentication (2FA) is your backup shield. Wherever possible, use 2FA on all devices and accounts, whether for email accounts, social media, or business systems.  This additional layer of security ensures that even if a password is compromised, access to your systems remains protected.

4. Keep devices and Apps updated

Outdated software is an open invitation for cybercriminals. Be sure all devices, operating systems, and apps are routinely updated. Many updates include crucial security patches that close vulnerabilities, so staying current is one of the simplest ways to defend against cyber threats.

5. Use antivirus software and keep it active

It may sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how often antivirus software is overlooked or disabled. Make sure reliable antivirus software is installed and active on all devices. This adds a crucial layer of protection against malware, viruses, and other malicious attacks. Don’t leave this essential safeguard to chance; ensure it’s turned on at all times.

In addition to these tips, the NERCCU team offers resources to help safeguard your business.

The NERCCU team works within the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU). The NEROCU delivers an increased response to tackling serious and organised crime that transcends Force borders in the North East region. They provide additional specialist capacity through effective partnership working and collaboration. See more.

They have a number of dedicated specialist teams designed to tackle each area of Serious and Organised crime.

These include:

• Intelligence and Operations syndicates
• Economic Crime Team
• Cyber Crime Team
• Prison Intelligence Unit

Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complicated. By starting with these simple actions, you can build a solid foundation and strengthen your security posture step by step.

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