September 5, 2025
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Most businesses have the basics sorted: antivirus software, firewalls, and strong passwords. But cyber criminals have moved on from the obvious. These days, they’re looking for the gaps you’ve not thought to check – and that’s where things get risky.
Whether you’re running a small team or growing quickly, it’s easy to overlook key areas of cyber security. That’s exactly what attackers are counting on.
At Bruce & Butler, we’ve supported businesses across a wide range of sectors, and the same blind spots appear time and time again. Here are five of the most common – and how to fix them.
If you’re still relying on passwords alone, you’re leaving the door open. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra step to logging in – such as a code sent to your phone – and makes it far harder for attackers to gain access.
“Cyber criminals are constantly improving their tactics, but something as simple as turning on MFA can stop many attacks in their tracks,” says Matt Bruce, Managing Director at Bruce & Butler. “It’s a small step that offers massive protection.”
Your cyber security is only as strong as the weakest link. If your suppliers or partners have access to your systems or data, any breach on their side could affect you too.
Check who has access, why they have it, and whether their security measures are up to scratch. Trust – but verify.
When more staff have access to sensitive data than necessary, a compromised account can cause serious damage.
Stick to the principle of least privilege: give each person just the access they need to do their job. Set time aside regularly to review permissions – especially when people change roles or leave. It’s a small admin task that can have a big impact.
Backups are essential. But don’t assume they’re working in the background – test them.
We’ve seen cases where businesses thought their backups were running, only to discover they’d failed when it was too late. Make sure yours are automated, secure, and tested regularly.
Updates often contain vital security fixes, especially for smaller tools and plug-ins that are easy to forget. Set a clear process for keeping all systems up to date. It’s simple but critical.
Start with the basics: Cyber Essentials
Cyber Essentials isn’t just a certificate. It’s a practical, government-backed framework designed to help protect your business from the most common cyber threats.
“We explain Cyber Essentials in plain terms,” says Matt Bruce. “We’ll help you put the right measures in place and make sure your security is sustainable – not just something you tick off once a year.”
At Bruce & Butler, we take a hands-on approach. We’ll work with you to make sure your cyber security makes sense for your business and fits your setup. Whether you’re looking to get certified or strengthen your systems, we’re ready when you are.