Cybercrime doesn’t stop at the care sector

 

 

Care providers across the UK are under real pressure, and rising costs mean many organisations are looking closely at where they can save money. But cutting back on cyber protection can leave your care business exposed, and the impact can be far more costly in the long run.

Cybercriminals don’t target organisations based on who they care for – instead, they look for opportunities. And too often, that means smaller businesses with fewer protections in place.

 

Why care homes are particularly at risk

You might think that cyberattacks only affect large organisations, but smaller and mid-sized businesses are often targeted because their defences can be easier to bypass.

Care homes hold a lot of sensitive information. That includes personal and medical details about residents, as well as private data relating to colleagues. This kind of information is highly valuable to cybercriminals, making the sector a frequent target for data theft.

 

Outsourcing IT doesn’t remove responsibility

Using third-party IT or security providers can be a sensible way to access affordable, scalable support, but many contracts come with a host of exclusions. Even if a breach happens within your provider’s systems, you may still be held responsible for notifying affected individuals and regulators.

Outsourcing also doesn’t eliminate the risk of data leaks. That’s why it’s essential to have clear internal processes in place. Your teams should know how to spot potential cyber incidents and understand exactly how and when to report them.

 

The financial impact can be significant

When a data breach happens, the costs can escalate quickly. Individuals affected may be entitled to claim compensation, and legal fees and settlement costs can soon add up, particularly if many people are involved.

Because of the scale of potential losses, cyber incidents are typically excluded from standard business insurance policies. That’s why specialist cyber insurance is often essential to provide the level of protection businesses really need.

 

Types of cyberattack

According to the National Cyber Security Centre, there are three main types of cyberattack that care homes are most likely to face.

Phishing

Phishing is the most common form of cyberattack. It usually involves tricking someone into clicking a link or sharing information through a convincing email or message. Once that happens, attackers can gain access to systems or sensitive data.

Malware

Malware is a broad term for harmful software designed to disrupt or damage IT systems. It’s often downloaded unknowingly, for example by clicking on a link or attachment that looks legitimate.

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware that gives attackers control over systems or data, locking access until a ransom is paid. These attacks can be extremely disruptive and expensive, particularly in care settings where digital systems play a vital role in delivering safe, day‑to‑day care.

 

Prevention is key

The most effective way to deal with a cyber incident is to reduce the chances of one happening in the first place. That means combining awareness, good internal processes and the right protection in place to support your business if the unexpected happens.

 

What to do if you experience a cyber incident

If your business experiences a cyberattack, acting quickly is key.

Start by limiting any further access to your systems. Follow your internal processes and involve your IT teams straight away. This could include isolating affected devices, changing passwords or restricting system access, depending on what’s happened.

What happens next will depend on the seriousness of the incident. You may need to notify the Information Commissioner’s Office and contact anyone whose data could have been affected. Having a clear plan in place helps keep things under control and ensures the right steps are taken at the right time.

 

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Join our interactive cyber session at the Care England Conference

 

At the Care England Conference on Thursday 12th March Everywhen, the new name for Towergate Insurance is holding the interactive session where we’ll walk you through a real-life cyber-attack on a care home and ask you to take part as it unfolds.

During ‘Inside a real-life cyber-attack: what really happens and how to react’ Care England members will be invited to vote on key decisions, share what you’d do next, and learn what really helps when the pressure is on.

We’ll also explain how an insurance broker can support you if an attack takes place, what practical steps you can take, and how to get back on your feet.

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Let’s talk

Having cyber insurance in place can help your care home get back on its feet in the event of a data breach.

Get in touch with James Anscombe on 07967 850015 or email james.anscombe@everywhen.co.uk.   www.everywhen.co.uk

 

Everywhen is a trading name of Advisory Insurance Brokers Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Firm Reference Number 313250). Registered in England and Wales, Company No. 4043759. Registered address: 2 Minster Court, Mincing Lane, London, EC3R 7PD.