Free Tool For SME’s To Protect Against Cyber Security Threats

31st March 2025

According to British Business Bank 60% of businesses with 10-49 employees suffered cyber attacks in 2024, in many cases at a cost of thousands.

While large firms are the more obvious targets, SME’s are the most vulnerable by not having the right protection.

We’re pleased to share a free cybersecurity resource designed specifically for small businesses across the South West.

This initiative is part of a joint project led by the University of Essex, in collaboration with the South West Cyber Resilience Centre and MHK Consulting. Together, they have developed a Cyber Security Self-Assessment Tool to help small businesses better understand and strengthen their cybersecurity.

PLEASE NOTE: The tool is being developed all the time as threats evolve which is why SWCR would appreciate any feedback using the links below.

🔗 Try the tool here: https://www.cybersecurityaid.co.uk/

The tool is:

✅ Simple and easy to use — no technical knowledge required
✅ Tailored to the needs of SMEs
✅ Designed to help you assess your current security posture and receive practical, actionable recommendations

In addition to the tool, we’ve made available a full set of Cybersecurity Training for SMEs, covering essential topics across five 1-hour sessions. These are free to download from the tool website under “Access training materials.”

Content of the Training:
• Session 1: Introduction to cybersecurity, latest trends, and impact on SMEs
• Session 2: Protection mechanisms – essential cybersecurity best practices
• Session 3: Cyber Essentials overview – compliance and certification guidance
• Session 4: Introduction and guided use of our cybersecurity self-assessment tool (CyberSecurityAid)
• Session 5: Summary, key takeaways, recommendations, and feedback collection

They would greatly appreciate your feedback — it helps them improve and ensure these resources continue to meet the needs of small businesses like yours: