As the national network of Cyber Resilience Centres continues to expand, we’re bringing you a series of interviews with some of the Policing teams heading up each Centre to get their take on the challenges facing each region.
In this blog, we talk to Ross Brown, Head of Cyber and Innovation at the South West Cyber Resilience Centre (SWCRC) about the role of the Centre for businesses in the region, and why they should consider joining the SWCRC:
How do you think your police experience will help in your new role?
Previously, I have trained police officers in IT systems so I understand that the cyber world can be quite daunting for some people, but when delivered in the right way it can be easily understood by everyone. In my police role prior to this I was involved in managing digital media investigations, so I hope to bring some of that investigative experience to my role in the SWCRC.
What will you be doing in your new role and what are the priorities?
My new role is to help develop cyber resilience in businesses in the South. To do that, I need to reach out to businesses across the South West, so that they know how to find us, what services we offer – especially our free ones – and how we can help them make the right decisions on shaping their cyber security.
Why do you think the SWCRC is so important for businesses in the region?
The businesses that operate here in the South West region appreciate local solutions and that is just what we offer. Being locally based, we understand local conditions and can offer services tailored to meet local business’ needs, delivered in a practical and easily understood format.
What are the main cyber security threats to businesses in the South West region?
Apart from threats such as Ransomware and Phishing, during this very uncertain time with the amount of people working and video conferencing from home, it’s vital that businesses understand the security settings and protocols of the system they are using.
Have you got any tips for small and medium businesses to help them protect themselves?
Businesses have three main elements in their armoury against cyber attacks: technology, people and processes. We can assist local businesses to optimise their current systems, inform their staff and update processes to improve their cyber defences.
What are you looking forward to most in your new role?
Having seen the aftermath of cyber attacks and the catastrophic financial loss they can cause, I am looking forward to welcoming new members to the South West Cyber Resilience Centre and helping them to strengthen their own cyber resilience, so we can try and help them to keep their businesses, staff and customers more secure.
Why should businesses join the SWCRC?
The South West Cyber Resilience Centre, as part of a National organisation, has been set up as a not-for-profit company to harness the very best of law enforcement, private enterprise and education in combatting cyber crimes. Because of this, we can keep members up to date with the latest information in the world of cyber, and regionally specific guidance relevant to the type and size of their business, helping create a safer and more resilient environment for businesses in the South West to operate.
Find out more about SWCRC on their website.