What is a keylogger? Everything you need to know

Spotting online threats can be challenging, especially when some of these threats, like keyloggers, are practically invisible!

Keylogger malware operates in the shadows like a silent spy, recording every keystroke on your system without your knowledge.

This blog is here to guide you through what keylogging involves and provide you with tips to keep your data safe.

What is a keylogger, and how does it work?

Keyloggers are a type of malicious software that comes in both hardware and software forms and are designed to record your keystrokes.

They intercept signals from your keyboard, recording every keystroke you make to capture a range of data from emails and login credentials to personal messages and sensitive financial information.

They operate discreetly in the background, transmitting your data to a third party.

Some sophisticated keyloggers can take screenshots each time you click your mouse. This allows them to capture multiple screenshots of your password even when entered through drop-down boxes.

Software keyloggers are often installed through malware, functioning by intercepting and logging keystrokes within your operating system.

Hardware keyloggers are physical devices placed between the keyboard and computer, sometimes disguised as infected USB devices. They record keystrokes without leaving a digital trace.

How do keyloggers spread?

Historically, keyloggers were physical devices which were inserted between your keyboard and your computer, recording the data which passed between.

Today, however, most keyloggers are of the software variety, coming in the form of trojans or viruses, which hide on your PC and scoop data to broadcast back. But how do these software keyloggers spread?

Email attachments: They come hidden in emails as files. When opened, these files install keyloggers on your system.
Website scripts: Outdated website scripts can unknowingly install keyloggers when you visit compromised websites.
SMS messages: Clicking links in text messages can lead to keylogger installations on mobile devices.

Can you have a keylogger on a phone?

Keyloggers can also silently embed themselves into mobile phones, monitoring your activity without your knowledge.

By accessing your SMS history, phone logs, contacts, and stored images, this type of malware poses a severe threat by compromising both personal and work-related information.

How do you know if you’ve been infected with a keylogger?

Detecting a keylogger’s presence can be challenging due to its covert operations. However, here are a few signs that might indicate their presence in your system:

Unusual computer behaviour: If your computer unexpectedly slows down while running specific programs or applications.
Control issues: If your mouse occasionally disappears or if there’s a noticeable lag in text appearing after typing.
Antivirus system scan: Some antivirus software can detect a keylogger’s signature during a system scan.
Unexplained online activity: If you notice unfamiliar or unauthorised activity on your online accounts, such as unrecognised login attempts or changes in settings without your knowledge.

Are keyloggers legal?

Are keyloggers legal? Well, it all depends on their purpose.

Within businesses, employers may use keyloggers legally to monitor employee activities and computer usage within the framework of applicable laws and regulations.

This monitoring might be used for security reasons, productivity assessment, or to ensure compliance with company policies.

However, using keyloggers to access someone’s personal information without consent is illegal and unethical.

The legality of keyloggers can vary widely based on location and context. Understanding and following the legal regulations concerning keylogger use is crucial to avoid any illegal or unethical consequences.

The LastPass breach: a real-life example

The LastPass data breach is an unfortunate example of the detrimental impact of keyloggers on personal and business security.

Hackers exploited a vulnerability through a keylogger installed on an employee’s home computer.

LastPass, one of the most renowned password managers, had its encrypted password vault data compromised, affecting numerous customers.

This real-life example highlights the necessity of being vigilant against keyloggers and maintaining strong security practices to protect sensitive data.

How can you protect yourself against a keylogger?

As keyloggers can be challenging to spot, it’s crucial to take steps to protect your devices before potential threats occur. Consider implementing these defences:

Antivirus and anti-malware solutions: Maintain up-to-date antivirus and anti-malware programs. Perform regular scans to detect and eliminate any potential keyloggers.
Firewalls and advanced security systems: Activate firewalls and strengthen your device’s security settings. These barriers can delay unauthorised installations.
Avoid suspicious links and attachments: Refrain from clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
Utilise virtual keyboards: Use virtual keyboards when entering sensitive data to prevent keystroke capture.
Adopt two-factor authentication: Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible to reinforce your account security.
Regular operating system and software updates: Stay proactive by regularly updating your system and software. These updates frequently contain patches that address vulnerabilities, making it harder for keyloggers to exploit.

How Bob’s Business can help

Bob’s Business provides specialised cybersecurity training. With our dedicated courses, you and your team can acquire the essential knowledge and skills to combat keylogger threats.

Our comprehensive and engaging training empowers you to detect, prevent, and respond to keylogger threats effectively.

Explore our range of cybersecurity awareness training products to defend your organisation against the dangers of keyloggers and other online security risks.

PCI DSS Compliance – Everything you need to know

As the year’s big shopping season approaches, SMEs like you need to have a solid understanding of PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) Compliance ensure you don’t fall foul of regulations.

In this blog, we’ll provide you with insights to ensure your company is PCI DSS compliant in order to minimise potential errors.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the festive season confidently.

What is PCI DSS?

PCI DSS, which stands for Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, is a set of comprehensive security standards designed to ensure the protection of sensitive payment card data.

It provides guidelines and requirements for organisations handling credit card transactions and was developed to address the growing concern of credit card fraud and data breaches.

Any company that accepts, stores, processes or transmits cardholder data regardless of size should follow the standards created.

How is PCI DSS compliance important during the holiday season?

Heightened activity:

The holiday season sees an increase in both online and in-store transactions. This creates a prime opportunity for cybercriminals to exploit.

The increased data volume makes it a peak season for data breaches.

Increased threats:

During the holiday season, cybercriminals often take advantage of shoppers making more purchases than usual, relying on their potential lack of vigilance.

They might impersonate trusted brands and frequently use tactics like phishing emails to lure unsuspecting shoppers into unknowingly providing sensitive information.

Regulatory consequences:

During the holiday season, regulatory bodies pay closer attention to businesses to ensure the security of cardholder data.

Failing to meet these standards can result in hefty fines, which can significantly impact your business’s bottom line

Protecting customer trust and loyalty:

The Christmas season is a time of gift-giving and customers value their trust in businesses more than ever.

They expect to receive the correct items, free from faults, and delivered on time.

PCI DSS compliance goes beyond regulations; it builds and maintains trust.

Businesses that prioritise data security demonstrate their commitment to protecting customer information, which builds loyalty and encourages customers to return for future purchases.

Increase in remote shopping at Christmas

This shift towards online shopping and the desire for the best holiday deals has opened doors for cybercriminals. The National Cyber Security Centre in 2022 revealed an average online loss of £1000 during the previous Christmas period.

Figures from the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) stated that between November 2021 and January 2022, shoppers in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland collectively fell victim to scams amounting to £15.3 million.

What’s even more concerning is that average losses continue to rise year on year.

How to ensure PCI DSS compliance

The PCI Security Standards Council has created a series of PCI DSS Self-assessment Questionnaires to help merchants and service providers assess security for cardholder data.
Here are the additional steps that your SME can take to ensure compliance with these standards

Here are some additional steps that your SME can take to ensure compliance with these standards:

Assess your payment card data handling:

Conduct a comprehensive assessment of how your business handles payment card data. This includes identifying all systems, processes, and personnel involved in cardholder data processing.

Minimise data storage:

The less cardholder data you store, the lower your risk. Implement a policy to store only data that is necessary for business operations. For any data you don’t need, consider secure deletion.

Encrypt sensitive data:

Implement strong encryption protocols to protect cardholder data during transmission and storage. Encryption is a critical requirement of PCI DSS.

Access control:

Implement access control measures. Limit access to cardholder data to authorised personnel only. Assign unique IDs for each individual with computer access and ensure that access is restricted based on job function.

Regularly monitor and test:

Continuously monitor your network and systems for any vulnerabilities or suspicious activities. Regularly test your security measures and conduct vulnerability assessments.

Security policies:

Develop and maintain a comprehensive information security policy that follows all aspects of PCI DSS requirements. Make sure all employees are aware of and trained in security best practices.

Regular updates:

Stay informed about changes in PCI DSS requirements. Ensure that your security measures align with the most current standards to maintain compliance.

Employee training:

Train your employees on PCI DSS requirements and best practices for data security. Awareness and vigilance among your staff are essential to preventing human errors and data breaches.

How Bob’s Business can help your business

Bobs Business is your trusted partner in achieving and maintaining PCI DSS compliance.

We offer tailored cybersecurity awareness training to educate you and your employees about the importance of compliance and data security best practices.

With our flexible learning options, custom content, and continuous monitoring, we provide the support and resources needed to keep your SME secure and compliant.

Bobs Business understands that every business is unique, and we’re here to help you navigate the complexities of PCI DSS compliance with confidence.

Click here to learn more about our PCI-DSS course and how we help tackle common compliance issues in companies just like yours.

Free Guide: AI, Safety and Your Organisation

Discover how to unlock AI’s potential in your organisation. Our complimentary guide explains everything you need to know to adopt AI confidently.

Artificial intelligence presents tremendous opportunities to streamline operations, gain insights and enhance customer experiences. However, without proper precautions, AI risks reinforcing biases, compromising data privacy, and enabling new cybersecurity threats.

Our new AI guide for businesses offers indispensable guidance to integrate AI securely and ethically, including:

Demystifying key AI concepts in plain English
Realising AI’s benefits for your business
Mitigating risks whilst maximising rewards
Implementing responsible AI policies and training
Ensuring transparency, oversight, and accountability

Whether you’re an AI novice or a seasoned expert, this guide shares practical advice to harness AI’s upsides whilst avoiding pitfalls. Equip your team to adopt AI as a force for good.

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What you need to know from Alianz’s ‘Cyber Security Trends’ report

With ransomware attacks surging globally, awareness of cyber threats is at an all-time high. Now, insurance provider Allianz has released its annual Cyber Security Trends report, providing crucial insights businesses need to know.

The report highlights developments across the cyber landscape from early 2022 through mid-2023, touching on the ongoing evolution of threats like ransomware, the role of human error in enabling breaches, the need for rapid detection and response capabilities, and more.

In this blog, we’ll summarise some of the top takeaways from the 31-page report. Key focus areas include the prevalence of supply chain attacks, the cybersecurity skills gap, the risks posed by mobile devices, and the importance of boosting employee security awareness.

Let’s get started.

The key takeaways from Alianz’s ‘Cyber Security Trends’ report.

Ransomware still dominates the threat landscape

Ransomware attacks surged 143% globally in early 2023, the report reveals.

These attacks are often successful because staff click on phishing links or fail to patch known software vulnerabilities.

Ongoing security awareness training is essential to avoid falling victim. Supply chain attacks, where hackers infiltrate vendor systems to steal customer data, are also increasing. Rigorous vendor risk assessments are crucial for managing your organisation’s level of risk.

Mobile devices are a growing target

Organisations are seeing more attacks aimed at mobile devices, according to Allianz. These endpoints often lack security controls, while employees commonly mix personal and corporate data on them. Implementing mobile device management policies helps secure these risky assets, and awareness should be raised among your team.

The cyber skills shortage increases exposure

With limited cybersecurity professionals available, many companies cannot adequately staff security teams.

Allianz advises focusing on employee training programs to fill the skills gap. Partnering with managed security providers can also help strengthen defences.

Human error contributes to breaches

Simple mistakes like misconfigured systems, inadequate system monitoring, and poor data management practices frequently contribute to breaches.

To reduce errors, organisations need proper cybersecurity awareness training, IT governance frameworks, internal auditing, and data retention policies.

Rapid detection and response is critical

Once attackers infiltrate systems, incidents often escalate rapidly into costly breaches. Allianz stresses early detection capabilities, like SIEMs and SOCs, are vital to spot intrusions quickly before major damage occurs.

Having an incident response plan, retaining specialist vendors, and conducting exercises also improves reaction time.

The top 10 findings from Alianz’s ‘Cyber Security Trends’ report.

Ransomware remains the top cyber threat, with attacks surging 143% globally in early 2023.
Supply chain attacks are increasing as hackers infiltrate vendor systems to access customer data.
Mobile devices are a growing target due to weak security controls and the mixing of personal and corporate data.
The cybersecurity skills shortage makes organisations more vulnerable to attacks.
Human errors like misconfigurations and poor data practices enable many breaches.
Early detection of attacks is critical to prevent escalation into major incidents.
Having an incident response plan and retaining specialist vendors improves reaction time.
Business email compromise scams are becoming more sophisticated using AI-generated content.
The Internet of Things and 5G networks will expand the threat landscape as more devices connect.
Data exfiltration attacks are surging, with stolen data leveraged to demand larger ransoms.

In short, while deploying robust technical controls remains important, continuously improving employee cybersecurity awareness and implementing governance procedures to avoid errors is fundamental.

Addressing the human element is key to reducing cyber risk. At Bob’s Business, that’s what we do.

Our NCSC-approved cybersecurity awareness training courses give your team the knowledge they need to protect your business, while our simulated phishing training gives your team hands-on experience in receiving and spotting phishing attacks.

Ready to learn more? Discover our range of solutions or chat with a member of our team.

This month in data breaches: October edition

This October, major corporations were hit with cyber tricks rather than treats!

Air Europa, 23andme, Sony, and Lyca Mobile faced the scary reality of data breaches.

Join us as we uncover how these companies were impacted and discover essential insights on how to protect your own business against similar cyber attacks.

Let’s get into it.

October’s biggest breaches

Air Europa

Air Europa, a Mallorca-based airline, fell victim to a data breach, exposing the private payment information of its customers.

The breach, discovered on October 10th, revealed that customer payment data, including credit card numbers, expiration dates, and CCV codes, had been accessed during the cyber attack.

Alarmingly, this breach occurred 41 days prior, on August 28, going undetected until suspicious activity was identified on one of the airline’s systems.

While the precise number of affected individuals remains undisclosed, the exposure of CCV codes is in violation of the PCI DSS regulations, which raises significant concerns.

Air Europa has advised customers who used credit cards for flight payments to cancel their cards as a precaution against potential fraudulent activities.

The Air Europa breach underscores the importance of adhering to PCI DSS regulations to minimise risks and mitigate the impact of breaches on customers’ payment data.

Learn more about how our compliance management tools help your business here.

23andme

Biotech company 23andMe faced a serious data breach where customer accounts were accessed through a credential-stuffing attack.

This led to the theft of genetic data, potentially including names, email addresses, birthdates, and genetic ancestry information.

The hackers seemed to focus on individuals of Ashkenazi Jewish and Chinese descent, causing concern within these specific communities.

A hacker claimed to possess and attempted to sell user details in an online forum, particularly emphasising Jewish individuals.

Upon detecting the breach, 23andMe involved digital forensics experts and law enforcement. They’ve taken steps, including requiring all users to reset their passwords as a precaution.

This incident adds to ongoing concerns about data privacy and security within genetic testing companies. This data information isn’t currently protected by HIPAA, the health privacy law, and 23andMe’s privacy policy still allows for third-party data sharing.

This breach stresses the need for unique and strong passwords for separate accounts to prevent unauthorised entry and protect your personal data.

Sony

In October, Sony informed nearly 6,800 employees about an earlier data breach that was linked to a prior security breach associated with the MOVEit transformation system.

Through this system, hackers gained unauthorised access to U.S.-based employee data stored on Sony’s servers.

As a response, Sony offered credit monitoring services to those affected and addressed the vulnerability to prevent any potential future data breaches.

These breaches highlight the persistent challenges in protecting personal data within large corporations, emphasising the critical need for updated security measures and continuous vigilance, regardless of a company’s size.

Lyca Mobile

Lyca Mobile, a London-based mobile operator, functioning on EE’s network, has faced a data breach, creating significant disruptions for millions of Lyca Mobile users.

Upon discovery, Lyca Mobile took swift measures to contain the breach by isolating and shutting down compromised systems.

Despite these efforts, the attackers gained access to various personal information stored within their systems, including names, birth dates, addresses, copies of identity documents, customer service interactions, and partial payment card information.

Although the specific details of the stolen data were not specified, concerns have arisen regarding compromised customer passwords and potential risks associated with phishing attempts, fraud, and unwanted marketing communications.

As the largest mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) with over 16 million customers globally, the magnitude of the breach poses a considerable risk.

This incident reminds us of the necessity of rapid and effective response strategies. A swift response can significantly reduce exposure and potential impact.

Preventive measures are a crucial aspect of cybersecurity planning.

What your organisation can learn from the October data breaches

Considering the recent breaches in October, it’s important to follow regulations and continuously review cybersecurity protocols.

Here are key points to consider when reviewing your cybersecurity measures to protect your organisation and customers:

Compliance with industry standards: Adhering to regulations like PCI DSS is vital to protect customer data and avoid severe consequences due to non-compliance.
Strengthening security measures: Implementing multi-factor authentication, encouraging strong passwords, and updating security systems can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised access.
Incident response and preparedness: Develop and regularly test an incident response plan. This includes clear steps for swift action in case of a security breach to minimise its impact.
Clear communication: Timely and transparent communication with affected customers and regulatory bodies builds trust and helps contain the breach’s impact.
Customer data protection emphasis: Continuous evaluation and enhancement of security protocols are necessary to protect personal information, prevent misuse, and reduce the risks associated with breaches and fraud.
Third-party risk management: Assess and manage risks associated with third-party vendors, ensuring they maintain strong security practices to safeguard shared data.

How can Bob’s Business help your organisation

At Bob’s Business, we provide tailored compliance solutions and customised employee training to protect your organisation.

With our support, your organisation can proactively enhance its cybersecurity and prevent breaches like these from happening. Click here to explore courses tailored to your organisation.

Free Shopping Season pack

It’s November, which means that shopping season is well and truly underway. With Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Christmas just around the corner, global online shopping habits are about to go into overdrive.

To help you and your team stay safe, we’ve put together an indispensable resource pack designed to help you navigate the season, including:

Reusable Blog on Shopping Season Threats: Give your team the context and advice they need to safely shop throughout November and December with this reusable blog to use on your website or via email.
A Safe Shopping Email Template: Effortlessly communicate the importance of safe shopping with your team with this pre-made email template.
Shopping Season Wallpaper: Keep safe shopping habits at the front of your organisation’s mind with this stylish desktop wallpaper.
Shopping Season Email Footer: Maintain awareness with every email thanks to this email footer design.

Better yet? We’re also including a 30-day free trial of Bob’s Compliance with every download!

Ready to get started? Interact with the bot below to gain instant access now!

The cyber risks of the Black Friday & Cyber Monday sales

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the perfect opportunities to grab someone special a unique gift at a discount.

However, it’s also prime time for scammers.

The rush to purchase presents under time pressure can also leave you more vulnerable, making you or your loved ones an easy target for cyber scams.

With the Black Friday sales fast approaching, it’s important to be aware of the potential cyber risks to stay safe online.

This blog will highlight the scams that may emerge and what you can do to stay safe while online shopping.

Let’s get into it.

Recognising cyber threats

Phishing attacks:

During the Black Friday sales, we often see an increase in phishing emails. Cybercriminals impersonate trusted brands, enticing you to click on malicious links or provide sensitive information.

For example, an ‘Amazan.com’ offer for iPads at outstandingly low prices.

Be cautious of unexpected email offers and verify their email addresses, also remember to pay close attention to spelling.

You’ve heard the saying, if it seems too good to be true it probably is! If you are unsure, you can look a company up on the Better Business Bureau website, and check their Scam Tracker for any reported issues.

Being vigilant with your emails allows you to benefit from genuine discounts and steer clear from the scams.

Fake websites:

Ever been on a website and thought something about it seemed a little off? Be aware of fake websites; hackers often create close clones of popular sites to trick users into handing over sensitive information or their hard-earned money.

Scammers typically start by copying the layout and design of a legitimate retailer’s website, making their fake site appear convincing at first glance.

They may also use domain deception, registering web addresses that closely resemble those of well-known brands.

These fake websites often dangle enticing offers that appear too good to pass up, drawing in unsuspecting shoppers.

Additionally, some of these deceitful sites may distribute malware. Clicking links or downloading files from them can infect your device with malicious software.

Staying informed and vigilant is your best defence against these online tricks, especially during events like the Black Friday sales.

Fake mobile apps:

Scammers create fake shopping apps that mimic popular brands. These apps can be found on unofficial app stores or through deceptive links.

Downloading these apps could lead to malware infections or theft of your personal information.

Stick to official app stores and read reviews before downloading any apps. Sometimes scammers will post fake reviews on their app to make it appear legitimate, so check the dates of reviews goes a long way.

Third-party sellers:

When purchasing from online marketplaces, exercise caution with third-party sellers.

Some sellers may not be as reputable as they appear, potentially leading to fake or flawed products.

Check reviews and seller ratings, and try to purchase from established retailers.

Social media scams:

Social media is a powerful tool for scammers.

They can dangle enticing offers or extravagant contests with the promise of winning valuable prizes.

However, it’s essential to remember that the price of these so-called “prizes” might be your valuable personal information, as scammers may request certain details to enter.

How to stay safe on Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Now that you’re aware of the potential cyber risks and the scams that could crop up during the sales, here are 10 practical steps to keep yourself safe:

Verify website URLs: Always double-check the web address before making a purchase. Make sure it matches the retailer’s official website. Cybercriminals often use similar but slightly altered web addresses to trick shoppers.
Look for ‘https://‘ and the padlock symbol: Ensure the website you’re using has ‘https://’ in the address bar, along with a padlock symbol. This indicates a secure connection and protects your data during transactions.
Check for verification: When following deals or promotions from social media accounts, look for a verification badge on their profile. This confirms their authenticity. Beware of impersonators who lack this verification.
Verify email offers: Don’t be tempted by unexpected email offers that seem too good to be true. Before clicking on any links or sharing personal information, verify the sender’s email address and double-check the spelling. Scammers often use slight variations to mimic legitimate brands.
Official apps and websites: Stick to official app stores and trusted websites when purchasing or downloading apps. Read reviews and ratings to ensure you’re dealing with reputable sources.
Two-factor authentication: Whenever possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your online shopping accounts. This additional layer of security ensures that even if your login details are compromised, your account remains protected.
Bad spelling and writing: Real websites use proper words and sentences. If you see lots of mistakes, it’s likely a fake website.
Blurry pictures: Genuine shops use clear pictures of their products. If the pictures are blurry or look otherwise strange, it’s a warning sign that the website might be fake.
Beware of overly aggressive pop-up ads: Scammers often use aggressive and persistent pop-up ads that claim you’ve won something or offer unbelievable discounts. Legitimate websites typically don’t bombard you with constant pop-ups. If it seems too intrusive or too good to be true, it’s likely a scam. Close the pop-up and continue your shopping on trusted websites.
Stay informed: Keep yourself informed about common online scams and cybersecurity best practices. Being aware of potential threats empowers you to recognise and avoid them.

How Bob’s Business can help your team build cyber awareness

Cyber deals can be attractive, but if your employees get trapped in online scams during these events, it can impact your company’s cybersecurity.

Some employees might not be too cautious with their passwords, and when their personal and work data blend, it poses a security challenge, especially for those who work remotely.

Bob’s Business is here to help with our cybersecurity awareness eLearning training, ensuring your employees can identify and address online threats efficiently and effectively.

We also offer tailored solutions to suit your unique business blindspots – Why not click here to explore our courses designed to ensure the safety and security of your business?

And happy shopping!

What you need to know from Microsoft’s ‘Digital Defense Report 2023’

It’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and, as is tradition, Microsoft has moved to release their Digital Defense Report. This year, they’re reporting on the period between July 2022 and June 2023, crunching the numbers and attempting to solidify an ever-changing threat landscape.

The report, across 131 pages, touches on the state of cybercrime, nation-state threats, the crucial cybersecurity challenges that all companies face and more.

In this blog, we’ll pull together some of the highlights and showcase some of the cybersecurity learnings that businesses need to know.

Let’s get started.

The key takeaways from Microsoft’s ‘Digital Defense Report 2023’

Good cyber hygiene is still the best defence against attacks

The report reveals that over 99% of successful cyberattacks could be prevented by following basic cyber hygiene practices.

Measures like enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA), applying zero trust principles, keeping systems patched and up-to-date, using endpoint detection and response solutions, and protecting data form a robust first line of defence for organisations of any size.

However, human error remains a primary enabler of cyberattacks.

Despite increasingly widespread security awareness training, phishing click rates have remained relatively stable.

This is largely down to the methods of training deployed by organisations. For example, the report found that video-based training only reduces phishing susceptibility by around 3% at best. More personalised, tailored training focused on actual behavioural change, like that offered by Bob’s Business, is required.

Sophisticated phishing attacks are surging

The report warns that adversary-in-the-middle (AiTM) phishing campaigns are surging dramatically.
These attacks involve threat actors using reverse proxy servers to intercept and steal login credentials and session cookies, bypassing traditional protections.

Attackers are also refining social engineering by exploiting trusted third-party communications alongside sending specially crafted phishing messages based on reconnaissance of individual targets.

Ransomware is still a top threat

Ransomware continues to plague organisations, with human-operated ransomware attacks doubling over the past year.

These intrusions often exploit unpatched systems and unmanaged devices. The report observes attackers increasingly using remote monitoring tools to conceal activity and make attribution more difficult.

Business email compromise (BEC) attacks have also skyrocketed, reaching 156,000 daily attempts globally. Threat actors hijack communication threads and leverage cloud infrastructure to conduct more sophisticated invoice and payment fraud.

Nation-states prioritise cyber espionage

The report highlights a shift amongst nation-state groups away from high-volume destructive attacks towards stealthy cyber espionage campaigns.

Key targets include critical infrastructure organisations and policymakers, alongside governments and governmental bodies.

State-sponsored groups are exploiting vulnerabilities faster, enhancing cloud operations, and increasingly using custom malware and “living off the land” techniques to hide activity.

How you can build organisational resilience

Facing this complex threat landscape, the report emphasises the importance of cyber awareness training and building organisational resilience through measures like:

Prioritising cyber hygiene and zero trust principles
Providing personalised, skills-focused security training
Leveraging emerging technologies like AI to analyse threats and automate response
Implementing robust identity management and phishing-resistant MFA
Ensuring devices and systems are kept fully patched and up-to-date

In short, Microsoft asserts that organisations that take a strategic, resilience-focused approach to cybersecurity are best positioned to protect themselves against both commoditised attacks and sophisticated, targeted threats.

At Bob’s Business, we’ve helped millions of employees to take responsibility for their organisations’ cybersecurity through effective, engaging and entertaining training.

With over 70 interactive and gamified courses, we give your team the knowledge they need to spot and stop attacks, alongside how to build good cyber hygiene.

Ready to learn more? Discover our range of solutions or chat with a member of our team.

Why online training is the most cost-effective way to train your staff

In business, success hinges on the delicate balance between income and expenses, and when it comes to expenses, there are few more debated than that of employee training.

In the current financial climate, it’s more important than ever to make employee training as cost-effective as possible whilst still regaining the same effectiveness.

However, traditional training methods can come with hefty costs, including travel expenses, facility rentals, and printing materials.

That is where online training steps in. It’s a cost-effective solution that not only reduces training expenses but also upskills your workforce.

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, the eLearning industry has seen exponential growth, with demand increasing by up to 400%. These factors have changed how we learn due to the ongoing change in technology. According to a recent study, an eLearning solution can save businesses up to 66% on training costs.

As one of the original online providers of cybersecurity courses for organisations, we’re uniquely qualified to explain why online training is the most cost-effective way to train your staff and why you should choose it over traditional training approaches.

Let’s get started.

Why is online training so cost-effective?

Employee time

In traditional training settings, employees often need to take significant time away from their regular work, including travel time, attending classes, and waiting for scheduled sessions to start.

This time away can result in productivity losses and additional expenses that businesses may not have accounted for. Online training, however, reduces these time-consuming factors.

Employees can access training materials from their desks, allowing them to learn at their own pace and during hours that suit them and the company.

This flexibility minimises downtime, maximises productivity, and ensures that important tasks are not delayed due to training requirements!

According to a Brandon-Hall Study, eLearning typically requires 40% to 60% less employee time than learning the same material in a traditional classroom setting.

With online training, businesses can capitalise on the hours that would have otherwise been spent on travel and idle waiting, making it a cost-effective solution for organisations of all sizes.

Travel costs

Travel expenses can quickly add up. Sending employees to off-site training locations often involves:

Train tickets
Hotel accommodation
Meal expenses
Transportation to and from the training venue

These costs can take a big chunk out of a company’s budget.

A study found that 85% of every pound spent on classroom training is spent delivering it, for example, on instructor time and travel.

Online training eliminates the need for these expenses. Employees can access training materials from their desk, homes or even during their journey into work!

The location of training becomes irrelevant. This not only saves on travel costs but, also, provides a more convenient and comfortable learning environment for employees.

With online training, travel costs are removed, making it a smart financial choice for organisations.

Scalability

Scalability is a key advantage of online training, for large, growing, and/or remote businesses.

Online platforms, however, can cater to a larger number of learners without the costs associated with gathering employees in a single location.

This online scalability guarantees consistent training across multiple locations, whether multiple offices or remote workers, without the need for several training sessions in different places – Pretty great, huh?

This cost-effective approach ensures that training can effectively scale with the organisation’s growth and changing needs.

Facility costs

In-person training often requires hiring a venue space. The expenses don’t stop here, it can include set-up costs, the cost of equipment, the venue might even charge for using their employees.

These logistics can be time-consuming and costly.

If, for example, the booking of a room is £300 for the day and you need 5 training sessions, that’s £1,500 spent on the venue.

That’s before any training has even started.

Online training eliminates the need for physical facilities altogether. Employees can access training materials from their own desks or devices.

This streamlined approach not only saves money but also removes the hassle of coordinating venue logistics.

By choosing online training, businesses can allocate their funds to more essential areas of employee development, making it a sensible financial decision.

Learning material costs

Think about it – when you enter a traditional training session, what is often handed out first? A notebook and pen, right?

Imagine providing this for multiple employees in numerous training sessions – those seemingly small costs start to add up.

And let’s not forget about all the other printed materials that often end up misplaced, forgotten, or simply, tossed aside once the session ends –a waste of money and resources.

Now, contrast that with online training. Online learning materials are neatly organised on online platforms accessible to all employees whenever they need them.

As well as this, any tweaks or updates to the content can be made in just a few clicks; no costly reprints needed.

This means employees always have easy access to the most up-to-date learning materials.

It’s a cost-effective choice that makes sense for businesses of all sizes.

New employees

Immediate online training for new employees is cost-effective due to its proactive approach to cybersecurity. Waiting for scheduled in-person sessions can leave new hires vulnerable, seen as potential weak links in security.

By providing instant online access to cybersecurity training, businesses can reduce their threat level.

Employees are immediately educated about security essentials, potential threats, protective measures, and reporting procedures.

This can enhance a company’s cybersecurity posture and minimise the potential costly consequences of successful attacks.

It is a wise investment in protecting your company from increasingly clever cyber threats, ultimately saving time associated with breaches and downtime.

Continuous learning

Online training offers the flexibility to adapt quickly. A training session can be created and delivered instantly online when a new threat emerges.
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This ensures that employees stay up-to-date with the latest cybersecurity practices and aware of emerging threats.

By embracing continuous learning through online training, businesses can maintain a strong defence against increasing cyberattacks and reduce the potentially costly consequences of a successful attack.

As employers adopt online learning to develop their workforce, they are estimated to bring in 26% more revenue.

Online training is the new proactive and cost-effective approach to cybersecurity!

Flexible training

Online training provides a flexible approach tailored to your business’s specific requirements.

You have the freedom to customise the training content to meet the specific cyber needs of your employees or the internal policies.

Online platforms offer the opportunity to establish social forums, enabling employees to share their experiences, including raising awareness about recent phishing emails they’ve received.

This creates a strong cybersecurity culture within your organisation.

This adaptability ensures that your training aligns precisely with your business objectives, making it a valuable and cost-effective resource.

It empowers your employees to learn and grow in a manner that best benefits your organisation’s success.

Need more reasons to choose online training?

More reasons to choose online learning:

Gamification: Training is most effective when employees are motivated. Online training games can tap into natural competitiveness, which makes learning enjoyable.
Accessible to all: Online training is available to everyone, regardless of location, language, health or situational challenges.
The greener option: Studies show online courses use 90% less energy and emit 85% less CO2 per student compared to traditional in-person courses.
Time efficiency: Corporate eLearning typically requires 40–60% less time from employees than traditional classroom instruction.

If you’ve gotten this far, we assume you’re coming around to online learning as the most effective way to train your employees.

We agree. That’s why our training is 100% eLearning and hosted on our innovative in-house LMS. With over 15 years of experience, we’re here to help make your training beautifully simple. Discover our wide range of courses and get started today.

Bob’s Business announces CyberLearn, our innovative in-house LMS

At Bob’s Business, we’re always striving to deliver outstanding training experiences to our customers. It’s been our goal since we were founded in 2007, and it’s as accurate in 2023 as it was all those years ago.

Now, in what marks the sounding of the starting gun for our next phase of business evolution, we’re delighted to announce that our in-house Learning Management System’s full launch is complete.

That’s right – CyberLearn is live for all.

Developed in conjunction with Can Studios, CyberLearn is a customised version of their Training Post learning management system, tailored to our unique needs. This offers a host of benefits for organisations, including:

Tailored Learning Experience: With CyberLearn, we introduce a new era of personalised learning experiences. The platform’s versatile architecture allows for bespoke features and functionalities, ensuring that businesses receive training solutions tailored to their unique requirements.

Agile Development: Empowered by CyberLearn, we’re accelerating the pace of feature development and deployment. This agility translates to faster response times to customer needs and rapidly integrating new, value-driven features into the platform.

Scalability and Flexibility: CyberLearn has been architected to seamlessly scale with the evolving needs of businesses. The platform accommodates growth from small enterprises to large corporations while maintaining optimal performance and user experience.

Robust Data Security: By leveraging CyberLearn, we control data security measures completely. This ensures the utmost protection of organisational information, fostering an environment of trust and confidence.

“Our transition to CyberLearn is a testament to our dedication to innovation and customer-centric focus. This milestone reflects our commitment to equipping businesses with a dynamic learning platform that adapts to their needs and helps build positive cultures,” remarked Melanie Oldham, OBE, CEO at Bob’s Business.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Bob’s Business in this endeavour. The specialised version of our Training Post LMS speaks to the flexibility and robustness of our platform. By joining forces, we are elevating the e-learning experience for Bob’s Business’s clients and showcasing the adaptability and power of Training Post.” commented Paul Hilton, CEO of Can Studios.

Ready to learn more about our Learning Management System? Contact a team member and discover how it can level-up your organisation’s training.