Join the fight against cyber crime: Enrol in Cyber Wardens training for free

Cybersecurity is now a top concern for small businesses, as rising costs put even greater pressure on their operations. Recent research by the Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia (COSBOA) and the Cyber Wardens program highlights cybersecurity as one of the top threats for small businesses in 2024.

A survey of over 2,000 small businesses reveals that many lack confidence in how to prevent or respond to cyber incidents. With nearly 40% feeling underprepared, the need for accessible cybersecurity training has never been more critical.

"We know that 2025 will be another challenging year for small business with economic headwinds ahead," COSBOA CEO Luke Achterstraat said.

"It is important for small businesses to remain aware of the increasingly acute risk of cyber-attacks. Investing in cyber security training and tools is essential to help protect your small business, staff and clients.

Safeguarding Small Businesses against cyber crime
"Our Cyber Wardens program can help give small business owners the skills to help mitigate the risks, reducing one of the many worries they are facing."

"Cyber security is important for every small business — that includes sole traders, side hustles and micro businesses. It doesn't matter whether you work in the office or from home, whether you're growing or shrinking, you still need to take steps to protect your business," Mr Achterstraat said.

"Together, we can strengthen the cyber security skills of Australian small businesses and protect our economic backbone."

According to Scamwatch, Australians lost more than $429 million to scams in 2023, with phishing, false billing, online shopping scams, and identity theft being the most reported scams.

Last year the ACCC reported the number of businesses losing money to scams had increased by 73%.

Take Action Today to Protect Your Business and its Future 
COSBOA's Cyber Wardens program offers essential, government-funded cybersecurity training for small business owners and employees, covering vital skills like multi-factor authentication, password management, and device security. In just 10 minutes, you can equip yourself and your team with knowledge to safeguard against cyber threats.

Enrol in the Cyber Wardens program today: