‘While today’s government announcement is a welcome and proactive approach to strengthening Australia’s defence against cyber threats, small-business owners have a responsibility to do all they can to protect themselves and consumers.’
A recent cyber attack on a number of small business websites by pro-terrorist hackers is a timely reminder of the threats facing online shopfronts, Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman – ASBFEO – Kate Carnell said.
Ms Carnell said the ‘Cyber Security Strategy’ launched today will help safeguard against future attacks like that experienced recently by reportedly more than 20 small businesses, whose websites were targeted.
‘Recent reports of small businesses having their websites breached with disturbing pro-Islamic State messages reinforces the importance of cyber security in this digital age, and I welcome the government’s collaborative approach to help ensure both businesses and consumers are protected against online threats,’ Ms Carnell said.
‘More and more, small businesses are turning to e-commerce to help grow their customer base and boost their bottom line. Many are capitalising on export opportunities in Asia, and are using their websites to connect with potentially millions of new customers offshore.
‘In order to confidently develop an online presence, small businesses need to have the peace of mind that their digital shopfront is safeguarded against online threats, and that their private information – and that of their customers – is not at risk,’ she said.
Ms Carnell said many small businesses are also increasingly using phone apps – that are vulnerable to cyber threats – to assist in the day-to-day running of their enterprise.
‘Latest statistics reveal 84% of small-to-medium businesses (SMEs) are online, with one in every two SME’s receiving online payments,’ Ms Carnell said.
Ms Carnell said while today’s government announcement is a welcome and proactive approach to strengthening Australia’s defence against cyber threats, small-business owners have a responsibility to do all they can to protect themselves and consumers.
‘Small-business owners need to make sure they are aware of cyber risks and have measures in place to prevent and respond to attacks. This includes drawing up an online security plan, ensuring their Point-Of-Sale systems are protected, backing-up their data and implementing robust password practices,’ Ms Carnell said.
Inside Small Business