smallbusiness.co.uk: Helping your business think big

A consortium has been set up to help small businesses protect their websites against the increasing threat of electronic attack.

Following reports that 60% of businesses were targeted by computer criminals last year (see earlier story on smallbusiness), a group of businesses have formed a non-profit consortium, called eSecurity4Britain, to raise awareness of internet security and educate firms about operating safely online, through its own website, www.esecurity4britain.org.

The site supports small business owners and managers, acting as an online forum where they can receive expert advice in operating safely online and learn about important issues such as implementing security policies, risk management, virus protection, and dealing with hackers.

Visitors will also be able to attend live online events and discussion groups, and access a directory of service providers, The consortium is asking for feedback and suggestions from business owners, technology companies, academics and Government bodies on other ways to improve its site.

Gerard Liston of SmallBiz UK and one of the founders of eS4B, says, "Running a small business typically involves a few people performing a large number of roles. Dealing with online security is often just one more task that does not receive the priority it deserves. Even though safeguards are often highly affordable and easy to implement, many small firms operate their systems with fingers crossed."

Visit www.esecurity4britain.org for more on how to keep your website secure, or see also the e-Business and Web sections.

(1/4/03)

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