Queensland businesses at risk of compromising their confidence, reputation, data and bottom line with cyber attacks have access to a suite of free, local and accessible workshops and resources to help protect their cyber security.
Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland (CCIQ) and REDD are delivering Cyber Health, a free cyber security program with resources and tools to help secure Queensland business in the immediate and long-term. The program is funded through the Department of Industry, Science, Energy & Resources.
CCIQ Chief Commercial Officer Alex Zafiriadis said more than ever Queensland businesses, their staff and the consumers they relied on were dependent on effective and efficient cyber security to allow them to continue trading in new, innovative and safe ways.
“We’re seeing businesses adapting their trading models to react to changes in consumer behavior and a new businesses sector during COVID,” Mr Zafiriadis said.
“It means retailers have re-focused on online trading and ecommerce opportunities, professional services and beauty businesses have upgraded to online booking and appointment management platforms and restaurants, cafes and bars are encouraging patrons to secure their table online.
“Businesses are reaching new markets in places previously out of reach, appealing to new consumers, adapting their offering to suit new platforms and timelines and selling, booking and trading quicker than they had been able to in the past.
“Cyber security attacks are a real threat for Queensland businesses and breaches could mean your reputation, confidence, data and secure information and budget are on the line.”
Mr Zafiriadis said cyber attacks cost Australian businesses close to $30 billion annually but taking some simple, free and proactive steps now could help businesses secure their reputation and bottom line.
“Now is a good time for businesses to be securing their cyber safety and get up to speed on what cyber security means for them and how they can ensure they’re protected from online threats, attacks, phishing emails and scam phone calls,” he said.
REDD CEO Nigel Heyn said Queensland businesses were able to reduce the risk of cyber attacks with a range of free educational resources available on the Cyber Health website.
“From an introduction to cyber security, to more complex topics like ransomware, you have access to all the cyber security essentials summarized into digestible video tutorials and articles for you to access in your own time,” Mr Heyn said.
“Find out how your business is tracking with Cyber Health with a free, easy to use, online Cyber Assessment tool powered by BrightREDD.
“The assessment will provide a tailored overview of the strengths and weaknesses and allow businesses to determine next steps.
“If your cyber health needs a boost, you can register your interest for a more in-depth Cyber Vulnerability Audit which will identify gaps in your cyber security. Places are limited.”
Mr Heyn said a free workshop series across regional Queensland would focus on the importance of cyber security to businesses, the risks associated with ignoring cyber security and how businesses could better protect themselves through effective cyber security practices.
Register for a Cyber Health workshop in Rockhampton, Mackay, Toowoomba, Cairns, Townsville or Brisbane.
Join us at FINTECH21 to learn more about cybersecurity – register for free showcase tickets now, space is limited.
