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On Tuesday 23 April David Willetts’ announced the results of the 2013 Cyber Breaches survey, which revealed that the number of cyber attacks hitting businesses has increased over the last year. 87% of small firms experienced a security breach last year, up 10% from 2012 levels. 93% of large organisations had also been targeted.

To help guard against these attacks, which can cost a small business 6% of its turnover, BIS is offering further funding and guidance. The Technology Strategy Board has extended a scheme to allow small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to bid for up to £5,000 to improve their cyber security. BIS is also publishing a guide to help small businesses improve their cyber security and make it part of their business risk management process.

David Willetts said: “The package of support we are announcing today will help small businesses protect valuable assets like financial information, websites, equipment, software and intellectual property, driving growth and keeping UK businesses ahead in the global race.”

Full details of the announcement are on the web here: www.gov.uk/government/news/more-small-businesses-hit-by-cyber-attacks

The guidance for small businesses is here: www.gov.uk/government/publications/cyber-security-what-small-businesses-need-to-know

Details of the £5,000 innovation vouchers are here: https://vouchers.innovateuk.org/cyber-security