Recent cyber attacks on Marks and Spencer and the Co-op have put the spotlight firmly on the vulnerabilities facing not just retailers but professional services firms too. For accountants, safeguarding client data and maintaining trust is paramount. Therefore, it is vital for firms to stay informed and vigilant as attacks increase in both complexity and frequency.

In the article What to learn from the M&S and Co-op cyber attacks and the follow-up piece Retail attacks put cyber security in the spotlight, ICAEW explores what went wrong and the lessons we can learn from these incidents. Key best practices recommended include regular patching, strengthening remote access systems, having a cyber-security incident response plan and ensuring all core systems are backed up.

On 23 June, ICAEW will host a free webinar about these recent cyber attacks offering practical steps for firms of all sizes.

The government is also stepping in to help businesses address this ever-growing risk. A new Cyber Governance Code of Practice sets out responsibilities for leadership teams, reinforcing the need for boards to take active ownership of cyber risk.

For further information, visit our Cyber security hub where you’ll find articles and guides as well as third party tools to help you protect your organisation.

Recent cybercrime articles

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Webinars and training

Members can also benefit from ICAEW’s Cyber security webinars and the free Finance in a Digital World CPD course.