18.3 C
Manchester
Friday, September 19, 2025
TechnologyOver Half of UK SMEs Lack IT Security Training on Major Cyber...

Over Half of UK SMEs Lack IT Security Training on Major Cyber Risks Despite Human Error Being a Top Concern

In a surprising revelation, over half of the SMEs in the UK are failing to cover major cybersecurity weaknesses in their IT security training, despite human error being identified as the most significant concern. This is according to the latest findings released today.

Sharp Europe, a leading business technology provider for SMEs across Europe, conducted a pan-European survey showing a concerning gap between the level of IT security worries and the actual training imparted to mitigate prevalent cyber risks.

The survey, involving 5,770 professionals responsible for IT procurement in SMEs, found that the lack of cyber training among employees is perceived as the primary risk to their businesses’ IT security effectiveness, even more than large-scale industry attacks or inadequate protection. Notably, 24% express increased concern over technology security risks due to insufficient employee training.

Despite the critical role of training in mitigating human error, key areas that have affected UK SMEs, such as Virus attacks (25%), Phishing (31%), Data loss (30%), and Password attacks (24%), are not adequately addressed in the training provided. Less than half of the SMEs cover essential topics like password management (46%), safe downloading practices (46%), secure network connections (45%), or even fundamental login procedures (44%) in their security training programs.

Matt Riley, Director of Security at Sharp UK, says: “IT security is as much a people issue as it is a Technology challenge, our team members are ultimately our last line of defence against threats. Businesses need robust training that encompasses all employees, not just IT and senior management.”

He adds, “The recent increase in AI-enabled phishing attacks, with their heightened sophistication, makes businesses more vulnerable. To counter this, Sharp UK utilises innovative tools for practical training, moving beyond traditional methods. These oversights in training can be costly, underscoring the importance of continuous investment and evolution in IT Security training.”

Interestingly, despite the shift to hybrid working heightening security concerns, only 40% of UK firms have enhanced IT security training post-transition to hybrid models, and merely 41% cover hybrid working in their training programs.

Yet, 92% of those responsible for IT in UK SMEs confidently assert their proficiency in IT knowledge. For further insights and advice for SMEs, visit sharp.co.uk.

News Desk
News Deskhttps://www.businessmanchester.co.uk/
The Business Manchester News Desk team is a collective of experienced journalists and editors dedicated to delivering comprehensive business news and insights from the Manchester area and beyond. With a strong background in finance, technology, property, and innovation, our team ensures that our readers stay well-informed about the latest trends and developments in the business world. Through in-depth reports and insightful analysis, the Business Manchester News Desk team is committed to providing high-quality journalism to its audience.
Latest

Simple ways to reduce risks at work

Workplace safety isn’t just about hard hats and warning signs. Awareness is also crucial. Small, everyday actions can prevent the kinds of accidents that disrupt...

Tees Valley International Film Festival to Premiere “3 Peaks 3 Pots” This November

The eagerly awaited documentary 3 Peaks 3 Pots will have its first screening on 6 November 2025 at ARC Stockton, marking one of the...

The green fleet: Sourcing affordable EVs at car auctions

The used electric vehicle market is experiencing unprecedented growth across the UK, with government data showing that zero-emission vehicles accounted for 20% of all new car...

Timberwise Boss Reveals Five Costly Issues Buyers of Older Homes Should Know

A leading voice in property care has revealed the five most widespread and expensive issues that often arise when people purchase older homes. George Edwards,...
Subscribe to our newsletter
Business Manchester will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.
Don't miss

The green fleet: Sourcing affordable EVs at car auctions

The used electric vehicle market is experiencing unprecedented growth across the UK, with government data showing that zero-emission vehicles accounted for 20% of all new car...

Tees Valley International Film Festival to Premiere “3 Peaks 3 Pots” This November

The eagerly awaited documentary 3 Peaks 3 Pots will have its first screening on 6 November 2025 at ARC Stockton, marking one of the...

Timberwise Boss Reveals Five Costly Issues Buyers of Older Homes Should Know

A leading voice in property care has revealed the five most widespread and expensive issues that often arise when people purchase older homes. George Edwards,...

FREESMO Leads the Way with Smarter Smoke-Free Choices Through Trusted Questionnaire

As the smoke-free sector continues to grow and diversify, FREESMO is highlighting the importance of its Smoke-Free Questionnaire – a tried and tested tool...

More News

Appy Pie Unveils Snappy 2.5: A Faster, Smarter Website Builder Designed Around User Feedback

Appy Pie has introduced Snappy 2.5, the latest upgrade to its website builder, developed in direct response to long-standing user feedback. This release focuses...

Erdos Tracks Launches AI Upgrade for Real-Time Contractor P&L Management

Founder Dan Herbatschek today introduced an advanced AI-powered upgrade to Erdos Tracks, the platform built to give contractors greater financial clarity through real-time profit...

Microsoft MVP Awarded to Jamie Taylor for the Fourth Consecutive Year

RJJ Software is proud to share that Jamie Taylor, its Principal Consultant and founder, has once again been named a Microsoft MVP (Most Valuable...