Beat the cyber threat: practical advice to help rural businesses stay protected

Think cyber-crime would not happen to your rural business? Think again.

Cyber criminals are not only targeting large companies. Rural businesses are increasingly reliant on online banking, digital records, connected technology, remote systems and supply chains, this makes cyber security a business-critical issue.

Recent figures show that 43% of UK businesses and 30% of charities have experienced a cyber breach or attack. Phishing remains the biggest threat: among organisations that suffered an attack, 85% experienced phishing, making it far more common than impersonation, malware or randsomeare.

Join the CLA Midlands team for this free practical session, designed to help rural businesses and individuals understand the risks, ask the right questions and take straightforward steps to reduce their exposure.

You will hear from Daniel Thomas at The Cyber Resilience Centre for the West Midlands and CLA Staffordshire branch Committee member, Paul Wolferstan at Rugosus. Rugosus already supports a number of other CLA members with diversified estates and farm businesses, bringing first-hand understanding of the risks, pressures and practical realities facing rural enterprises.

Together, they will explain why cyber security matters more than ever and share practical steps businesses can put in place. The event will consider the growing relevance of cyber security across rural industries, supply chains and technology-dependent operations, while highlighting the free tools, support and resources available.

Expect real-life case studies, insight into the latest threats facing rural enterprises and practical measures you can take back to your business straight away.

Agenda 
2pm Arrival & refreshments

2.15pm Welcome from John Greenshields, CLA Midlands Rural Surveyor 
 
2.20pm An introduction into the risks associated with online and digital crime. The talk will explore the scale of the problem and what steps can be taken to protect your business by Daniel Thomas, The Cyber Resilience Centre for the West Midlands 
 
3pm Practical tips to protect you and your business from cybercrime, including what to take back to protect your business, supply chain and clients by Paul Wolferstan, Rugosus? 
 
3.40pm Optional drop in sessions for advice 
 
4.30pm Depart