New study reveals the features that make a company most attractive for hackers
The go-to targets for cybercriminals have been revealed, and a private small company from the United Kingdom operating in the retail field would definitely be one of them, according to the latest study by NordPass.
In partnership with NordStellar, NordPass evaluated nearly 2,000 data breach incidents worldwide from the past two years, extracting insights on which companies are most likely to experience a cybersecurity breach. Experts ranked companies based on their likelihood for a breach depending on their industry, size, company type, and country of registration.
“While small retail companies are highly attractive, other profiles are no less appealing for hackers. This analysis helped us illustrate which businesses face higher risks and explain what measures can be taken to avoid them,” says Karolis Arbaciauskas, head of business development at NordPass.
Retail and technology sectors are in the line of fire
Among the data security incidents investigated by experts, most occurred in the retail industry (95 incidents). The second most breached sector is technology, with 56 incidents recorded in the past two years.
The top 10 most attractive industries also include more specific technology-related sectors, such as internet and web services, IT services and consulting, software development, and computer hardware development.
According to Arbaciauskas, these results are rather surprising, given that many think that the technology or IT sectors are less vulnerable and are better equipped against threats online. However, the reality is that hackers see technology firms as an appealing target — even if the company is equipped with high-end IT solutions, human mistakes can still occur. Therefore, companies should choose tools that eliminate possible risks, invest in employee training, and carefully evaluate their cyber preparedness.
The United Kingdom is the third most affected market
The study reveals that companies operating in the United States get the most attention from hackers, with almost a quarter of businesses (489) investigated for this research registered there. The United Kingdom (73) also got into the top of the list and ranked third after India (114). Among the countries in the European Union, Spain and France are more appealing to hackers than others.
“It’s natural that bigger countries are in the spotlight, given that hackers see a lot of opportunities there. However, no country is resilient to cyber threats and this is important to stress. It is up to businesses themselves to ensure their own and their clients’ security online, no matter their address,” says Arbaciauskas.
SMBs aren’t too small for hackers
In terms of company size, hackers seem to prefer small and medium businesses (SMBs). In the past two years, the absolute majority of investigated breached companies had up to 200 employees. Arbaciauskas explains that the problem could simply lie in SMBs underestimating their value to hackers.
“There are targeted attacks, yes, but hackers often go for much broader scope activities, such as credential stuffing, dictionary or rainbow attacks that do not choose their victims. Because of employees’ reused and poor passwords, or downloaded malware, company credentials appear in the leaked credentials’ databases, which gives a chance for hackers to break in. For smaller companies, a data breach is a risk for business closure — financial costs and reputational damage carry significant aftermath effects,” says Arbaciauskas.
Having investigated the company types that fall under the hackers’ radar the most, NordPass concluded that private businesses are targeted most often. As much as 85% of the analyzed data breaches were against such companies.
What should you do if your business profile falls under this study?
According to Arbaciauskas, any organization, no matter its size or type, should be cautious of its cybersecurity. Employing critical tools such as password managers that allow for secure management of company credentials and accesses, or virtual private network (VPN) solutions is a first step towards better resilience against the threats online.
In addition, cybersecurity auditing is helpful to spot weaknesses in a company’s IT infrastructure and prepare resilience strategies. It is also critical to invest in the overall cybersecurity awareness raising among the organization to avoid human mistakes that often lead to serious data breaches.
Reverse coal on display at climate SAFE event
An engineered natural solution to extract carbon from the atmosphere was on display last month at a farming estate near Doncaster, which crosses the borders of Nottinghamshire, North Lincolnshire and South Yorkshire.
Visitors to The Lapwing Estate were shown the novel ‘Reverse Coal’ project, which has been brought to life by an innovative farmer, a team of academics and engineers, including a team from the Lincoln Institute of Agri-Technology (LIAT) and the School of Engineering and Physical Science at the University of Lincoln, UK.
The day started with presentations from Lapwing Energy, Collison Associates, UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology and the University of Lincoln who are involved across a vast array of projects exploring the shared vision of rethinking farmed peatlands. This was followed by a tour of the site including workshops looking at biomass feedstocks, biochar, industrial decarbonisation as well as an opportunity to sequester carbon back into the geological reserve for long term storage.
Reverse Coal was mentioned as a positive case study in the Government’s Environmental Improvement Plan 2023, the Net Zero Innovation Portfolio Progress Report 2021-22, and Powering Up Britain – The Net Zero Growth Plan. It has been widely highlighted as an example of how peatlands can be more responsibly managed and pave the way for climate-resilient agriculture.
Peatlands are some of the most fertile soils for food production, but agricultural drainage causes large greenhouse gas emissions. Reverse Coal has been developed as a whole systems approach, that tackles landscape emissions whilst shifting towards controlled environment agriculture for greater food security. This tackles the common criticism of most biomass projects which is the displacement of food production for bioenergy.
The renewable energy comes from biomass grown on rewetted peatland thereby ending emissions associated with drainage for agriculture. This biomass is then chipped and fed through a thermochemical treatment called pyrolysis to generate energy and biochar. Biochar is a solid, stable form of carbon which will then be stored in a innovative storage facility demonstrating that CO2 can be permanently captured for geological time.
Prof Simon Pearson, Founding Director of Lincoln Institute for Agri-Food Technology said:
“The Reverse Coal project showcase was a fantastic opportunity for the University of Lincoln to share its expertise with industry partners, and support innovative approaches to sustainable food production systems.
“One of LIAT’s goals is to create a sustainable future for agri-food production through innovation and research, and the the Reverse Coal project is a great example of this.
“Reducing the impact of agri-food on the climate through projects such as Reverse Coal is at the heart of what we do, and it is very encouraging to see the project being so well received by the wider food industry.”
James Brown, CEO of The Lapwing Estate said: “This was a great opportunity to showcase Reverse Coal to industry and partners as well as say a big thank you to those who have supported us and backed this project from the beginning.
This is just the beginning for The Lapwing Estate as we look to deliver a more sustainable food production system that also delivers for our planet!”
Specialist paint manufacturer establishes base in America
Yorkshire-based specialist paintmaker Brouns & Co has formally launched in the US with a local stockholding and distribution centre in New Hampshire, a new US website LinseedOilPaint.com and billing and payments direct from its US-based subsidiary.
Michiel Brouns, founder of Sherburn in Elmet Brouns & Co, said: “The remarkable rise in demand for linseed paint and coatings in Europe has now been outpaced by the US market, where architectural styles mean that there is greater need to preserve and protect both historic buildings and new structures that lean into the importance of natural components and carbon footprint.”
The company has seen a tenfold increase in demand from the US since it began shipping initial orders to North America in 2015. It views the market as a key area for growth, driven by a combination of consumer preferences for natural products, regulatory changes and the huge volume of wooden homes that are built and maintained in the US.
“Holding stock in the US as order quantities rise means we can meet the demands of local and national government contracts, as well as enhancing the service we offer private and corporate buyers who are increasingly looking for cleaner, greener, higher performance alternatives without forever chemicals,” added Brouns.
Brouns is working with American architects and preservation bodies on numerous projects in the US, including the restoration of President Washington’s Mount Vernon summer home in Virgina.
“We’ve been working closely with Royal Institute of British Architects in the UK and US for several years, and also the American Institute of Architects, who are meeting the demand for more information and training on the use of these products and techniques that were almost completely lost over the last few hundred years,” he added.
“Establishing our US venture, warehousing and a dedicated web presence is the natural next step, and we’ve also appointed a US-based CFO to lead the business.”
Contractor appointed to deliver Leeds office redesign
Leeds based developer, Wilton Developments, has today revealed a further phase of redevelopment at 10 South Parade in Leeds.
On behalf the BCO award-winning office owner, East Parade Limited, Wilton has appointed Formm to carry out the works to the ground floor, introducing a business lounge, coffee shop and a 65-desk business centre divided into 10 self-contained offices. The space will also provide high quality meeting rooms for hire, and the ability to open up part of the centre for events. Work will complete early next year. Designed by JMA (Jon Matthews Architects), ESG has been at the heart of the project with designers paying particular attention to recyclable materials and low carbon solutions The centre will be managed directly by Wilton under its new humanSpaces brand, building upon the success of the all-inclusive offices which are now fully let at its 2 Bond Court building. Hannah Ingrey has been appointed as the new Community & Operations Manager for the building, she joins from Spacemade at Park House where she was Community Manager. Wilton has plans to roll out this offer to its wider Leeds portfolio. Jason Stowe, Managing Director at Wilton Developments, comments “Following our two recent lettings to IDHL and Thomson Solicitors, the upper floors of 10SP are once again fully occupied. The time is therefore right to implement long held plans for the reconfiguration of our ground floor at 10SP. “This scheme will provide new, contemporary facilities for our existing tenants, providing collaboration opportunities through the business lounge and business centre. The Coffee Shop will be operated by Bean Coffee, who we are particularly excited about introducing the brand to Leeds City Centre. The coffee shop will be open to the public, as well as being available to tenants and visitors to the building.” Hannah Ingrey, Community & Operations Manager at humanSpaces, comments “We are creating a truly exceptional offer here at 10SP. The attention to detail and quality of materials will stand apart in the Leeds market. I’m particularly impressed with the desire to incorporate recycled and recyclable materials where feasible into every aspect of the design. I am looking forward to launching the space early in the new year, alongside our new community card offer open to all Wilton tenants in the city.”Bradford College Celebrates Renewed Partnership with Bradford City AFC
Bradford College is extending its partnership with Bradford City AFC for a fourth consecutive year. The renewal sees the College remain one of City’s main partners, as well as being their official digital partner.
Bradford College branding will continue to feature on the Bantams’ digital output, through both imagery and video content, as well as various signage around the University of Bradford Stadium.
Over the last four years, the partnership has resulted in many positive outcomes benefitting both organisations, including Bradford City AFC supporting the College’s annual Apprenticeship Games during National Apprenticeship Week and City launching an app delivered by the College.
Earlier this year, BA Media Make-Up and BA Fashion students played an instrumental role in the release of Bradford City’s 2024/25 kits. Bradford College students and staff showcased their skills and were featured as extras in special launch videos brought to life across two filming days.Nicky Betteridge, Bradford College Apprenticeships & Business Development Team Leader, explained the driving force behind the flourishing partnership:
“We are delighted to extend our partnership with Bradford City AFC for a further 12 months. This partnership opens doors for Bradford College students, providing opportunities to gain valuable work experience within the sport, digital, and hospitality industries. It also gives a platform to share key messages with local employers and promote any upcoming training opportunities available to the wider community.
“Lots of great work has happened over the last year, including Arts and Fashion students supporting the Football Club with styling and make-up for their home and away kit launches. This is real-world experience that looks impressive on students’ CVs. Following collaboration with Bradford City’s Head of Marketing, we are also now offering a Level 3 Multi-Channel Marketer qualification from within our Apprenticeship department. This has been specially designed to ensure it meets the needs of local employers.
“We’re excited to see the further positive developments that will happen over the next year for the benefit of both parties and our wider City.”
Bradford City AFC Chief Commercial Officer, Davide Longo, added: “We are absolutely delighted to continue our partnership with Bradford College for another year, taking the partnership into its fourth year. The College has been brilliant with the club since coming on board in 2020 and the contribution to our kit launches this summer was vital in ensuring the highest quality product was delivered.
“Working with the major businesses and fellow key players across Bradford is imperative for the continued growth of the City and we’re pleased to be continuing that. I would once again like to place on record my thanks to Nicky Betteridge, his colleagues and the College generally for their continued support. We look forward to collaborating again over the next 12 months and hopefully beyond!”
Keepmoat names Land and Partnerships Director
Housebuilder Keepmoat has announced the appointment of Nigel Robson as Land and Partnerships Director, to lead the Land Team in the business’s Yorkshire West region.
His role will be to set the strategy for land acquisition, leading the delivery of regenerating towns across West Yorkshire and managing delivery targets in partnership with local authorities and housing associations.
With a wealth of knowledge within the sector, Nigel joins the team from MCI Developments, a subsidiary of Keepmoat, bringing more than 30 years of industry experience.
He said: “I am thrilled to join Keepmoat Yorkshire West after leading on operations at MCI Developments. I am excited to join the team to secure and deliver partnership-led opportunities to fulfil the master land pipeline and strategic plan.
“I value Keepmoat’s people-based culture and strong track record for partnering with local authorities and housing associations on its developments. I am eager to continue contributing to its vision of building communities and transforming lives.’’
Keepmoat has multiple live developments in the Yorkshire West region, including sites in Batley, Sheffield, Leeds, Huddersfield, Bradford, Upton and South Elmsall. Keepmoat has built over 35,000 homes in the last 90 years and has over 60 developments across the country.
Regional MD Chris Clingo added: “I look forward to seeing Nigel further strengthen our land process and approach whilst supporting the growth of our area and team. His wealth of experience will be instrumental in helping us to build on our success.”
BBC funding supports South Yorkshire apprenticeship provision
The South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Levy Matchmaking Service is to get new funding from the BBC to support apprenticeship training for South Yorkshire’s SMEs.
The BBC has now pledged £100,000 Apprenticeship Levy fund, which will allow people who want to work in the creative and digital industries, or who are currently doing so, to earn while they learn.
The South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Levy Matchmaking Service is one of several services receiving levy funds from the national broadcaster with an aim to encourage SMEs in their area to apply for the funds so they can recruit apprentices and create apprenticeships for their businesses.
The South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Hub, which aims to see 300 new high-quality apprenticeships brought to the region by 2025, was launched by South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, in December 2023.
Welcoming the BBC’s additional funding, he said: “This contribution from the BBC recognises the significant contribution the creative and digital industries make to South Yorkshire’s young people and the wider economy. South Yorkshire doesn’t just need a bigger economy, we need a better economy. That means we need the right people with the right skills, and the right training and education to support them”.
Sarah Moors, BBC Head of Apprenticeships, said: “Apprenticeships provide a vital route into the media for people from a range of backgrounds. In pledging these funds, we hope to support the development of new talent for the creative, cultural and digital sectors, and to equip existing employees with additional skills”.
Launched in 2017 by the Government, the Apprenticeship Levy allows for organisations to pay a certain amount each year towards the costs of enabling new apprenticeships and upskilling existing employees.
Organisations generally use their levy to support those that take up apprenticeships in their own workplaces, but when that money is not spent it can be transferred to SMEs who do not have a levy fund themselves to cover apprenticeship learning and development.
The service, which forms part of the South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Hub, is funded by South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and delivered by the South Yorkshire Colleges Partnership.
Goole firm develops fully electric police car
Goole-based O&H Vehicle Conversions has produced a fully electric Rapid Response Police Vehicle built on the Skoda Enyaq chassis.
This new model is said to mark a significant step forward in the electrification of emergency service vehicles, combining sustainable technology with advanced features tailored to the demanding needs of modern policing.
A spokesman for the company said: “By leveraging the Skoda Enyaq’s electric platform and incorporating cutting-edge technologies like CIGS solar panels and integrated control systems, we are setting a new standard for what emergency vehicles can achieve.
“This vehicle not only addresses the current needs of police forces but also paves the way for a greener, more efficient future in emergency services. With features designed to enhance functionality, reduce costs, and improve sustainability, we believe the new Rapid Response Police Vehicle is a game-changer for law enforcement agencies looking to modernise fleets while minimising their environmental impact.”
How businesses can respond if debtors won’t pay their bills
Taking a systematic approach to debt collection is always beneficial. It’s important to have fixed processes in place, as failing to collect debts efficiently can lead to a multitude of problems for your business, says Chris Bristow, a business debt expert at Real Business Rescue.
Writing on the York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub web site he says issues such as increased bad debts, financial decline, or even cash flow insolvency and liquidation, can emerge when businesses arem’t paid for the work they’ve carried out. “Although this may seem like an impossible situation to resolve, you do have several potential paths available.
Hull business secures accolade for its sustainable travel work
Hull-based Sewell Group has received a Very Good Travel Plan award from Modeshift STARS in recognition of its efforts to change in travel behaviour and reduce the number of single occupancy car journeys to, from and between its sites.
Bethany Dennett, community investment strategist at Sewell Construction, said: “Becoming more sustainable as a business is one of our priorities, so it’s been great to work with Hull City Council to achieve the Modeshift STARS accreditation.
“Everyone, right across our company, has been so keen to take part and it’s been brilliant to see people try cycling to work or arranging to car share when travelling to meetings. We’ve had lots of creative suggestions for the travel plan from our people, and the benefits aren’t just for the environment, but improve our physical and mental health too.
“We realise there’s still lots to do to help people choose more active or sustainable ways to travel, but we’re excited to continue on this journey and can’t wait to see what ideas our team come up with next.”
The Sewell Group’s achievements and standout travel plan initiatives included:
- teaming up with the Hull Thursday Road Club to record a short film, highlighting the benefits of cycling, for Cycle to Work Day
- improving existing onsite cycle parking facilities by erecting a secure cycle shelter made from sustainable materials
- organising and delivering lunchtime litter pick walks within the community, collecting a total of 32kg worth of litter
- introducing a car share scheme to help match staff living within the same postcode, including floor vinyls and coloured, cardboard cars placed on desks to act as ice breaker
- car share competitions
- promotion of the council-funded ‘Rusty Riders’ adult cycle training programme.
- reductions of single occupancy car journeys, which helps alleviate pressure and congestion across site car parks
- identifying availability and accessibility of viable transport options, based on staff locations
- potential to improve and develop site connectivity links through sustainable and active travel
- improving staff wellbeing, with physical and mental health benefits.
