Facing up to security threats and risks – the perspective of small businesses

Many small businesses think they are simply not big enough to be the target of cyber-attacks, but this is increasingly not the case. In fact, online threats are one of the fastest growing security risks facing small businesses; with scanners becoming progressively sophisticated in the way they target unsuspecting businesses.

In the past year alone there’s been a range of scams aimed at small businesses, from fraudulent emails claiming to be from government regulators to hackers seeking the details of a small business’ suppliers list. Therefore its vital small businesses insulate themselves against cyber threats to their online systems.

More and more small businesses are going online, not only to increase their competitiveness domestically but to tap into global markets, particularly the millions of potential customers located throughout Asia. While digital economy presents enormous opportunities, it also brings with it significant risks so small businesses need to ensure that cyber security measures are a part of their business plan, and they invest the time and money necessary to safeguard against hackers, computer viruses, and other online threats.

Kate Carnell, the inaugural Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO), shares her knowledge of small business practice and the increasing online threat with delegates at this year’s ASIAL Security Conference. Secure your seat now to find out more on to protect small businesses. Spaces are limited!

About the author: Kate Carnell

Kate Carnell commenced her role as Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) in March 2016.

Kate brings extensive experience and knowledge to the role of Ombudsman, having run her own small businesses for 15 years before becoming ACT Chief Minister in 1995 for a five-year period. Prior to her appointment as the inaugural ASBFEO, Kate held the position of CEO of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which represents more than 300,000 businesses across Australia. She has also served two years as CEO of beyondblue, four years as CEO of the Australian Food and Grocery Council, four years as CEO of the Australian General Practice Network (AGPN) and three years as CEO of the National Association of Forest Industries (NAFI). Kate is a pharmacist by profession and was the inaugural chair of the ACT Branch of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and the first female to become the National Vice-President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. Kate was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2006 for her services to the community through contributions to economic development and support for the business sector, knowledge industries, the medical sector and medical technology advances.