Albanian government launches cyber resilience service for small businesses
Today (October 22), the Australian Government announced the launch of the new Cyber Resilience Service for Small Businesses.
The new initiative will give small business owners and staff access to free “personalized and one-on-one” support to guide them through cyber incidents and threats.
The new service was launched following the Australian Cyber Security Strategy 2023-2030 and is part of the Albanian government’s $60 million investment to strengthen cyber resilience and the capabilities of small businesses.
“We are extremely grateful for this federal government investment in small business cyber resilience,” said Dr. David Lacey, executive director of IDCARE, the agency that manages the new service.
“For 10 years, our team has worked with small businesses across the country after they have been victims of a scam, identity theft or cyber incident.
“These are people who took risks and put their blood, sweat and tears into their idea, which is the backbone of the Australian economy.
“Being able to further assist these small businesses with their cyber resilience is vitally important, and we look forward to providing tailored support.” »
Small businesses are a demographic primarily targeted by cybercriminals due to their lack of budget and cybersecurity knowledge. According to Accenture Study on the cost of cybercrime43 percent of cyberattacks targeted small businesses. Additionally, 48% of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) spend less than $500 per year on cybersecurity.
Additionally, the Australian Cyber Security Center said that in the 2022-2023 financial year, 94,000 cybercrimes were reported, with the average recovery cost being $46,000.
“I know how vital it is for Australian small businesses to have the help they need to prevent and recover from cyber incidents,” said Julie Collins, Minister for Small Business.
“Cybercriminals can have devastating consequences for small businesses, with the average cost of a cyber incident being approximately $46,000.
“That’s why it’s a pleasure to launch the new Cyber Resilience Service for Small Businesses from the Albanian Labor Government.
“This is just one of the ways our government is helping Australia’s 2.5 million small businesses.
“The Government’s Small Business Statement provides more than $640 million in targeted support for small businesses to ease pressure, help small businesses grow and level the playing field.”
