What is cyber resilience?

Cyber resilience means that you can protect the organization against digital threats and recover quickly after a cyber incident. Cybercrime is becoming increasingly sophisticated and the number of attacks continues to rise. It is not only large organizations that are affected; it is also very important that small businesses get their digital defenses in order. It is not just about technology, but also about awareness and behavior within the organization.
 

Why is cyber resilience necessary?

For many entrepreneurs, IT security is not a daily activity. Yet a cyber attack can have major financial and personal consequences. Think of stolen customer data, halted business processes or reputational damage. In addition, companies are increasingly legally required to properly secure personal data and are held responsible for data breaches. Public opinion is also hardening: in the event of a data breach, there are quickly calls for severe penalties.
 

What measures can you take to improve your organization's cyber resilience?

Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take as an entrepreneur right away. Even with a limited budget and without subsidy, you can significantly increase cyber resilience. Here are the most important measures:

• Secure network access and wifi: ensure a well-secured wifi network and limit access to your business network.
• Password manager: use strong, unique passwords for each service and store them in a reliable password manager.
• Two-factor authentication (2FA/MFA): add an extra layer of security to your accounts by enabling two-step verification where possible.
• Patch management: always keep systems and software up to date with the latest security updates and use tools to do this automatically.
• Antivirus software: install and update reliable antivirus solutions for all your devices.
• Set up and test backups: regularly back up important data and test them so you can recover quickly in the event of an incident.
• Risk inventory and evaluation (RI&E): map out the digital risks and determine which measures are most effective for your company.
• Cyber awareness training: train employees to recognize phishing, malware and other threats.
   

Subsidy: an extra helping hand

From July 18, small businesses can apply for a Mijn Cyberweerbare Zaak subsidy for the third year in a row. The scheme runs until October 31, 2025 and the subsidy fund contains 1 million euros. The government reimburses 50% of the costs for cyber measures, with a maximum of 1250 euros per company. Only companies with a maximum of 50 employees and a turnover of up to 10 million euros are eligible.
 

In conclusion

The subsidy fund often runs out quickly, but even without extra financial support it is wise to start working on digital security now. Start with the most important steps, make cyber resilience part of daily policy and be prepared for what may come. Contact one of our employees to tackle your organization's resilience together.