Tees Business Issue 36 | Page 127

FEATURE small-to-medium-sized businesses ( SMBs ).
Address – Learning Curve Group ’ s chief technology officer Hannah Marshall will speak at the Tees Business LIVE event .
Venue – The Wilton Centre will host a cybersecurity event on Thursday January 25 .
“ And as AI emerges as a potential gamechanger , businesses can significantly mitigate their risk exposure with cyber prevention .”
Bob stresses that cyber-threats are a reality for everyone and the need for adequate protection for businesses across the board , irrespective of their size .
“ It ’ s a common misconception that smaller businesses are immune from cyber-attacks ,” he says . “ But people forget to factor in that some sophisticated tools are also being used by lone wolves – perhaps a teenager sitting in their bedroom , working on a commission basis for a larger organisation .
“ It ’ s astonishing how frequently SMBs fall victim to ransomware attacks for seemingly insignificant sums . The threat is undeniably real , making it crucial for all businesses to prioritise robust protection measures .”
Part of the Cleveland Police cybercrime team for more than two years , Kelly Close specialises in digital fraud . As well as working with victims she advises individuals , businesses and charities on identifying risks and how to avoid them .
“ Prior to this I worked in the Community Safety Team as a crime prevention officer , safeguarding those vulnerable from crime ,” she says . “ It was here I became interested in cybercrime , as there is an element of it in most crimes now , especially domestic abuse .”
Learning Curve Group is an international training and education specialist . Its chief technology officer Hannah Marshall , who comes from a
military background with an expertise in data analysis , will speak about her experiences of technology since she left the Royal Navy .
Widespread – Kelly Close of the Cleveland Police cybercrime team says there is an element of cybercrime in most offences committed now .
Expert – Andrew Parsons , partner at Womble Bond Dickinson , will complete the four-strong panel of speakers .
Cybersecurity : Keeping your business safe
The Tees Business LIVE event will be a crucial opportunity for business leaders across Teesside to gain insights and actionable solutions in the ever-evolving landscape of cyber-threats .
Date : Thursday January 25
Time : Noon to 2pm Location : The Wilton Centre , Redcar
Tickets for can be reserved at teesbusiness . eventbrite . com .
The voice of business in the Tees region | 127