Businesses are being encouraged join a Staffordshire police led cyber initiative which is being re-launched.
The force led Cyber Champion programme which is supported by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, Staffordshire University and the Regional Organised Crime Unit – offers specific training to local organisations in identifying thing such as phishing emails, scams or cyber-attacks.
The course itself is currently free and involves a four-hour training session. Businesses including Beth Johnson Foundation, Chambers of Commerce, WhitChem Limited and Asist are amongst the many who have benefitted from the training previously.
A representative who completed the course previously said: “The cyber champion training made me realise just how important it is that we raise awareness of cyber-crime with everyone in our organization and in our community. The training has given me the knowledge and confidence to have conversations with others, not to be an expert – just to be someone who isn’t afraid to open up a conversation about the dangers and how to stay safe.”
Another added: “I thought I was reasonably cyber-aware before attending, but the training really opened my eyes to just how much damage could be done in such a short space of time – and so easily! I’m really glad I attended.”
Following its inception in October 2018, specially trained officers have been educating representatives from local business in cyber with a Staffordshire University led survey finding 100% of those taking part would recommend the programme.
Alex Burnham, Cyber PROTECT Officer who leads on the course design and delivers the training said: “What is great about this course is that it is specifically designed for users, so attendees do not need any IT knowledge prior to coming along to the training.
“I would encourage all businesses to get on board with the initiative to raise awareness to cyber criminality and help strengthen cyber security throughout the workplace.”
For more information on how to get involved, contact
