A series of free webinars are to be offered to assist small and medium-sized businesses to protect against cyber attacks.

The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation, the Department of Economic Development and the Cybersecurity Governance Board said the webinars are designed to educate businesses about the importance of cybersecurity.

They said participants will learn how to keep their information systems, along with their client’s information, safe. They will also learn what to do if their security system risks jeopardy and what the law says should happen next.

Renee Ming, the Minister of National Security, said: “Regardless of the size of an organisation that is entrusted with stakeholder data, personal information, or intellectual property, that business is responsible for safeguarding its systems.

“So, it’s critical that we offer the tools and skills to help businesses safeguard their systems. I commend the EDD, the BEDC, and the CGB for leading the way in ensuring this information freely available, and encourage everyone to take full advantage of this opportunity.”

Jamillah Lodge, director of communication and development at the BEDC, added: “Cybersecurity is an important component of successfully operating a business. The BEDC recognises that while it is necessary, cybersecurity can seem complicated.

“Therefore, we are pleased to partner with the Economic Development Department and the Cybersecurity Governance Board to deliver this series of webinars that will help to demystify what is required to be ‘cyber-safe’ and to maintain compliance.”

Ronnie Viera, Chair of the Cybersecurity Governance Board, said: “The National Cybersecurity Strategy which was approved in 2019 has a primary goal of educating the community about the importance of cybersecurity. I am pleased that we are able to partner with the Department of Economic Development and the BEDC to help in building awareness.”

Webinars will be presented beginning next month and running until next April.

The 2021 schedule: August 25 – How to ensure that your business has the proper security measures in place; September 29 – The business owner’s responsibility regarding privacy and client information; October 6 – Supply chain attack: what it means for your business; November 10 – Is your online payment platform secure? Tips and Tricks; December 8 – Cybersecurity is not just for online businesses.

The 2022 schedule: January 26 – How to assess your business privacy and security risks; April 27 – Cybersecurity and the Law in Bermuda.

To register for one or all of the webinars in the series, visit www.bedc.bm.