Building a Stronger Defence Against Cyber Threats
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Cyber security threats are no longer distant headlines. They are a real and growing risk for organisations across all sectors, including housing. Recent high-profile cyber attacks on UK supermarkets like Marks & Spencer and Co-op, as well as local authorities such as Glasgow City Council, show how vulnerable even well-established organisations can be.
Housing providers manage large amounts of sensitive personal data and rely on digital systems to run tenancies, payments, and maintenance. A cyber attack could disrupt essential services, compromise tenant information, and damage community trust.
So what kinds of attacks are out there?
Phishing emails
Phishing remains one of the most common ways criminals gain access. These emails often look genuine, pretending to be from a trusted source, and try to trick you into clicking a link or sharing passwords. It’s easy to fall for if you’re not careful.
Ransomware
Ransomware attacks lock down your systems and data, demanding payment to restore access. They can halt operations and cause serious financial losses.
Social engineering
Attackers manipulate people into handing over sensitive information or access, often by impersonating someone trustworthy. This approach exploits human trust rather than technology.
Cyber criminals don’t care what sector you’re in. Whether you work in housing, government, or any organisation that handles personal information and uses digital tools, you are a target. Often the weakest link isn’t the technology but the people. One wrong click, weak password, or missed warning sign can be enough to cause serious damage.
That’s why investing in cyber security awareness and skills is crucial. When your team knows what to watch for and how to respond, you build a stronger defence against these threats. Cyber security isn’t a one-off task, threats keep evolving, so regular training and staying alert are key. Keeping your team up to speed means fewer mistakes, less risk, and a better chance of spotting problems before they cause harm.
To help you prepare and protect your organisation, Share are offering a Cyber Security and Fraud Awareness webinar on 21 August 2025 from 12PM to 1PM. This session is designed for anyone using digital resources who wants to better understand cyber threats and how to stay safe online. Members can attend for free and non-members for just £25.
To book, visit Cyber Security and Fraud Awareness - Share or contact info@share.org.uk
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