The government has launched a new campaign, urging businesses to "lock the door" to criminals online.

The campaign, which will run across social media, podcasts, radio and business networks, provides practical ways for organisations to protect themselves from common online threats.

Materials will encourage businesses to engage with with the government’s Cyber Essentials scheme which sets out clear practical steps they can take to protect themselves from the most common cyber attacks. This could include keeping software up to date and controlling who has access to accounts and data.

Figures show that significant cyber incidents cost an average of £195,000 and half of all small businesses have suffered a cyber breach or attack in the last 12 months.

Last year, 92 per cent fewer insurance claims were made by organisations with Cyber Essentials in place.

The certification can also help businesses win government contracts, and eligible firms can access free cyber insurance, including a 24/7 emergency helpline, provided by the Cyber Essentials delivery partner.  

Cyber Security Minister Baroness Lloyd said: "No business is out of reach from cyber criminals. SMEs play a vital role in our economy, and business owners work incredibly hard to build something valuable, but too many still assume cyber criminals only go after big brands. The reality is criminals look for easy opportunities, and without basic protections in place, any business of any size can become a target.  

"I know smaller firms don’t have large IT teams, and that is exactly why Cyber Essentials matters. It provides a straightforward checklist to lock the door on cyber criminals, without needing specialist expertise. Cyber risk is business risk, just like fire or theft, and the protections are just as essential. I urge businesses to take action and adopt Cyber Essentials now."

NCSC CEO Dr Richard Horne said: "Many small business owners assume their business is too small to be on cyber criminals’ radar, but in reality, we know most attackers don’t care about size, reputation or logos – they are looking for opportunity and weaknesses.  

"Small businesses do not need to go to the ends of the earth to put baseline cyber security measures in place as the Cyber Essentials scheme can help them take practical steps today.

"I urge all businesses to implement the five key security controls to help protect themselves against the most common, damaging online threats."