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Protect your business from cyber threats.

Computer hacking has been around for as long as there have been computers. Once it used to be computer geeks showing the world how smart they were. Now it's become very serious with almost any person, company or Government at risk from these criminal activities.

Recent hacks into large corporations have highlighted the need for these organisations to become more secure.  Even more so now there are possible fines of up to $50 million for a financial firm that was recently hacked.  This is serious money and the cost of stopping such attacks is also very high.

Where does this leave small businesses?  A good question, as the level of expertise in most small businesses, is very low and the ability to pay high cyber security costs is low also.  On the other hand, cybercriminals are looking for 'big treasure' for reasons such as identity theft, and it seems obvious that some are also supported by rogue states that want far more than some 'mum and dad' details. 

What can a small business do.? Thankfully, State and Federal governments have made a start but they tend to focus on doing a very thorough job rather than what can be paid for by small businesses.

The following are some actions a small business can take to start moving down the road of improving its cyber security.  Of course, there are many options if funds are available but just helping staff be more aware of what is dangerous is the place to start.

Set out below are actions you can take to help.

1. Review the information at these web addresses:

2. For most small businesses the above is too much to digest but a review is recommended.  Perhaps give a member of staff the responsibility to read this information and then discuss it with staff.

3. For many small businesses it seems that the best place to start is with how staff manage their online activities because it is here where small businesses are most vulnerable.  A web address to help train staff is https://business.gov.au/online/cyber-security/protect-your-business-from-cyber-threats#train-your-staff-to-be-safe-online

Cybercriminals rely on the belief that they are better prepared to attack than businesses and governments are prepared to defend.  But they are also timid.  If you take some steps then a bit of pushback will help as, in most cases, the cyber-criminal will go looking for easier targets, and there will be many for them to choose from.

 

Peter Graham


David Forrest Download David's Advisor Profile

David Forrest

Director
BEc (Acc), MBA, CPA, FFin

David has been in the Financial Services Industry for nearly 30 years. He was one of the founding Directors of the successful Financial Planning and Stockbroking Practice, Henderson Gregory Forrest, for a decade. Prior to that, he held senior roles in companies such as ING, KPMG Accountants and AMP. David was previously Chairman of OAMPS Superannuation Trustee Board and currently serves as an independent Board Director for several companies.

David’s extensive experience in all forms of superannuation, including Self Managed Super Funds (SMSF), Defined Benefit Funds, retirement funding through Account Based Pensions, stockbroking with a focus on Direct Share Investment, Taxation/Remuneration Planning, Centrelink, Aged Care and business management, equip him to advise expertly on all aspects of Financial Advice.

Those with a particular interest in superannuation/SMSFs, direct share investment, salary packaging or applying for the Centrelink Pension will find his knowledge and ability in formulating and implementing creative, logical and simple wealth creation strategies a valuable asset.

David maintains a strong personalised client service focus, providing tailored solutions for clients.

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David Forrest is an Authorised Representative of Integrity Financial (SA) Pty Ltd ABN 16 133 921 187 — AFSL No 334846

Michelle Forrest

Michelle Forrest

Business Finance Manager
B Bus (Acc), CPA

Michelle’s career has spanned across the Financial Services, Retirement Living and Aged Care industries working in the private sector, not for profit and more recently with the state government for over 20 years. Her experience extends to many facets of the financial services industry, having worked in superannuation administration, technical support and financial planning practice administration.

Commencing with AMP and subsequently working in commerce and accounting roles with companies such as Brambles, Adelaide Bank Retirement Services, ECH Inc and SA Health and Wellbeing, Michelle returns to financial services after working in practice financial management at Henderson Gregory Forrest. This wide range of experience from senior accounting and management roles has provided Michelle with a strong background in business administration.

With an astute financial acumen and keen interest in business improvement strategies, Michelle ensures the smooth running of the Integrity Financial Advisory practice providing valued management support to our personalised client service focus.

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Darren Chalk
Natasha Bartlett
Kelly Collins
Jasmine Smith

Jasmine Smith

Client Service Manager

Jasmine has worked in the financial services industry for over 12 years in all areas of client administration, working with David since 2013.

Jasmine has extensive knowledge and experience in client service including implementation of advice, portfolio reporting, assisting with the establishment of Self Managed Super Funds (SMSFs), term deposit management and a long history of helping clients with their enquiries.

Jasmine’s attention to detail, yet gentle approach, means she is able to solve the trickiest of questions for our client community.

Jasmine has gained her Certificate III in Financial Services qualification.

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Merrilyn Smith

Merrilyn Smith

Senior Client Service Manager

Merrilyn has worked in the financial services industry for over 11 years in all areas of client administration, and is a new addition to our client services team, returning from Melbourne to join the team in June 2019.

Merrilyn has extensive knowledge and experience in client service including implementation of advice, managed fund administration, assisting with the establishment of Self Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) and process improvement for the previous practices she has worked with. Merrilyn’s experience with direct shares constitutes the other part of our administrative support for direct equity investments.

Merrilyn’s warm and caring nature continues to endear her to our clients and she has already established herself as a valued member of our team.

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