Aphra Brandreth attended the Cheshire Business and Retail Crime Conference organised by John Dwyer, Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner.
The conference was attended by businesses from across Cheshire and included presentations and information stands raising awareness about current crime trends targeted at businesses, as well as providing information on resources and support available. Some of the current trends in crime include targeting ATM machines and Smart self service tills, criminals entering business properties through more unusual routes and targeting delivery drivers.
A particular issue of concern is Cybercrime which can result in businesses suffering significant financial losses. Statistics from the Cyber Resilience Centre for the North West show that Cybercrime affects over 39% of businesses monthly, at an average cost of £4,200. Police forces across the North West are seeing cyber attacks on businesses rise each month. The North West Cyber Resilience centre has a number of resources to help businesses including: A Free Cyber Security Guide for Small Businesses; Free Cyber security guidance materials; and Free Police updates on cybercrime trends in the North West. More information on the support they offer is available at https://www.nwcrc.co.uk
There is also a new programme launched to provide cyber security support for small businesses in Cheshire, find out more at https://www.nwcrc.co.uk/cheshire
Aphra says: “There are approximately 45,000 businesses across Cheshire, although fewer than 1 in 7 will have trained their staff in cyber security. This event has been a great opportunity to raise awareness of the risks to businesses and sign post them to support available.”
