What Should I Do If My Business Experiences a Cyber Attack? - HDUK

As the business landscape continues to evolve into the digital age, cyber attacks are no longer a “maybe.” They’re an ever-present risk, even more so for professional services such as law and accountancy firms. At HDUK, we’ve seen firsthand how cyber attacks such as phishing, business email compromise (BEC), ransomware and credential theft have disrupted […]

As the business landscape continues to evolve into the digital age, cyber attacks are no longer a “maybe.” They’re an ever-present risk, even more so for professional services such as law and accountancy firms.

Common Cyber Threats detailed

“Please urgently review the attached settlement letter.”

“Updated bank details for client transfer.”

“Tax filing issue – action required today.”

Phishing tends to attack an individual’s psyche, sending “urgent and confidential” emails makes their attacks seem genuine. This is most common in accountancy and law firms

Business Email Compromise (BEC) This occurs when an email account linked to your business is hacked and becomes compromised. This is more dangerous than phishing, as attackers are more convincing when asking for information, and can even dictate instructions. They’ll ask for payroll, tax payments, invoices etc.

Ransomware When attackers infiltrate systems through phishing, weak passwords or unpatched systems, they can encrypt files on your network.

They’ll steal the data and either won’t return or threaten to leak it (sometimes both) if a certain amount of money isn’t paid.

Credential Theft Cloud systems using Microsoft 365, Xero, or QuickBooks are the most common targets. When passwords are stolen, attackers can retrieve sensitive client information. Similar to the cyber threats, attackers can access emails, download sensitive client documents, or impersonate staff.

Common Mistakes Businesses Make

“It won’t happen to us”

Not having a proper response plan

Not having a back-up system

Ignoring the potential impact on the reputation of their business

Immediate Response Steps

Isolate affected systems : Disconnect your compromised device from any network to prevent exfiltration of data, or the implementation of malware.

Preserve the evidence : Deleted files, emails or logs could disrupt cyber forensic investigations, insurance or regulatory reporting.

Alert your Cyber Security personnel: This should be a priority. Time-sensitive matters like revoking credentials should be handled immediately and carefully.

Notify members of your organisation: Leaderships, financial and legal teams need to coordinate a proper response.

Change passwords and secure accounts: Unaffected devices should have the passwords changed as an extra measure in case of a leak.

Assess the type and scope of the attack: It’s essential to determine whether phishing, BEC, ransomware, or data theft has been undertaken and which systems and clients are affected

Communicate Cautiously: Make sure not to respond to extortion demands or notify clients without legal guidance.

Involve legal and regulatory advisors: your cyber insurance provider and, if personal data is involved, consider notifying the ICO.

Preventative measures

Investing in Cyber Security ( SOC and SIEM ) solutions and/or services

Train your staff on proper cyber security protocol and etiquette

Securing devices when employees are working remotely

Implementation of strong password policies and enabling multi-factor authentication.

Cyber security isn’t a cost, it’s an investment. One breach can destroy years of work and client trust. By understanding the risks, preparing in advance and responding effectively to a cyber attack, your business won’t just survive. It will thrive.

At HDUK, we help businesses safeguard their data. Book a consultation with us today.

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