Google adds online security module to You're the Business

Google has added a new online security module to its You’re the Business initiative, a digital training scheme launched last year to help upskill Irish SMEs.

You're the Business is a collaboration between Google, Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices, and aims to accelerate Irish SME growth through digitalisation in the form of tailored, free online training, as well as an SME reward programme.

Recent research conducted by iReach Insights on behalf of Google found that 77% of SMEs agree that having a secure online presence is a priority for their business, with 42% strongly agreeing that it is a priority.

Just 20% are very aware of the specific measures or tools required to protect their data/ digital assets, while 64% know a little, but not much.

When it comes to protecting their website and digital assets, the research shows that just over a half of SMEs regularly back-up data (54%), ensure software is updated (53%) and use two-step authentication for accessing common owned devices (53%).

Despite the fact that a strong majority of Irish SMEs readily recognise the benefits of having a secure online presence, less than half of SMEs require employees to periodically change passwords (44%) or take regular or annual security awareness training (38%). Only 28% have a cyberattack response plan.

“Google is very proud of the You’re the Business initiative and how it has helped Irish businesses initiate, grow and expand their digital capabilities over the last 12 months," said Marie Davis, Google head of SME retail, UK and Ireland.

"We are introducing a new cyber security module as our research informs us that while Irish SMEs understand the importance of cyber security, they are not always aware of the measures required to protect their data and digital assets. Designed by Google experts, this online training program will better protect SMEs from the growing threat of cyberattack.”