It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to Luke Draper, MD of IDT Limited.
I’m no expert when it comes to predicting business trends. But when it comes to predicting what will challenge businesses in 2024 – well then that’s an easy one. But not a pleasant one. Cybercrime.In fact, I can’t emphasise it loud enough. Not so much a prediction, but a sure bet. I don’t normally like scare mongering but in this case I feel I need to and should as it’s that important and serious.Every person and person in business, needs to prepare themselves better against cybercrime. It’s here, it’s real, and it’s going to affect us all sooner rather than later.In the last few weeks alone we’ve seen the media report on prominent and respected businesses floored by cyberattacks. Compromised. Helpless. Out of business.Business insurance companies are now putting mandatory requirements in place stipulating that cyber security is in place before they offer cover.And It’s getting more aggressive, with stories of cyberattacks now commonplace. But it always happens to someone else right? Well, that’s what some will cross their fingers and hope for. The reality is cybercrime not only devastates a business it can ruin lives and have a massive effect on people’s mental health.So – what to do? On a positive note, there are things that can be done – powerful tools and skills that will not only help protect against the devastating impact cybercrime can have on a business, but in turn, will arm your employees with know-how and awareness to take home and help protect their families too.
