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Podcast #124 - Cyber Smart for Brokers

 

 

Cybersecurity might not be your day job, but it should be on your radar. For mortgage brokers and businesses handling sensitive client data every day, the risks are real and the impact of a breach can be huge. In episode #124 of the Accord Growth Series podcast, Strategic Partnerships & Propositions Manager at Accord Mortgages, Iain Cunningham, explores this crucial topic with cybersecurity expert Paul Lopez. As the Director at The Eastern Cyber Resilience Centre and a former Detective Superintendent for Essex Police, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and perspective to the table.

With more operations moving online, the risks are ever-increasing, making cybersecurity a critical concern for businesses of all sizes. Paul Lopez sheds light on the collaborative efforts between government, police, academia and businesses in bolstering cyber resilience. Through real-world examples, including a case involving a business email compromise that affected a manufacturing company, a mortgage broker and a law firm, listeners gain insight into the sophisticated tactics used by cybercriminals. From phishing scams to the insidious "living off the land" strategies, this episode offers practical advice on safeguarding your business.

One of the crucial takeaways from the episode is the importance of engaging with local Cyber Resilience Centres. These centres provide invaluable resources, including free memberships and affordable cybersecurity services, to help small businesses enhance their defences against digital threats.

Listeners will also learn about the evolving landscape of phishing attacks, the dangers of QR code phishing and the sophisticated methods employed by ransomware groups like Curly Spider. Paul emphasises the necessity of ongoing staff training and the shared responsibility of cybersecurity within organisations.

Finally, the episode delves into effective incident response strategies and the role of cybersecurity insurance in mitigating potential damages. With actionable insights from Paul Lopez, business owners can better navigate the ever-changing cybersecurity threats and protect their enterprises from digital dangers.

Listen to more podcasts in the Growth Series here

The Growth Series is a dedicated and FREE resource for mortgage brokers, containing blogs, guides, and podcasts to help you scale and grow your business. For more hints and tips on how to grow your business, you can sign up to the Growth Series here.

01:45 - 50:49

  • 01:45 - Cybersecurity for Small Businesses
  • 11:15 - Real World Cybersecurity Breach Examples
  • 23:15 - Phishing and Cybersecurity Training Importance
  • 29:07 - QR Code and Social Engineering Risks
  • 40:35- Cybersecurity Incident Response and Insurance

 

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