UTC Swindon event will teach firms how to protect against cyber security threats

UTC Swindon will host a special event with experts from the National Cyber Security Centre amongst others on hand to explain how to prevent scammers and hackers from accessing important and sensitive data.

Co-founder of the UTC Cyber Group Michael Halliday said: "We want small businesses who don't have in-house IT teams to understand how to protect themselves from the increasing risk of cyber-attacks.

"This is often seen as a dark art but it's important to break down barriers and give companies the knowledge they need to combat threats online because malware can have devastating effects.

"The NCSC is part of GCHQ and its purpose is to protect the nation. This is the first time they will speak to people at an event in this area so it's a great opportunity."

UTC Swindon students studying cyber security will demonstrate to the audience the dangers of over-sharing online by showing what they can find out about Mr Halliday from his presence on social media and other websites.

Industry representatives of the BITC Business Emergency Resilience Group will be accompanied by Royds Withy King and RSM to answer any questions the audience may have on cyber-security.

Mr Halliday added: "People trust these platforms but scammers use personal information they find online to gain your trust and use it against you.

"We are educating the next generation of cyber talent and have some very capable 16-year-olds who have just finished their first year.

"It's quite timely with the announcement of TechSwindon - though this event isn't officially affiliated, we hope our students will go on to be part of businesses like that and help them."

The Cyber Resilience event will be held at UTC Swindon on Thursday July 11 from 8.30am to 12pm with a bacon butty breakfast and talks. It is free to attend but places are limited

Book a place at eventbrite.co.uk/e/cyber-resilience-how-to-protect-your-business-tickets-62473208047