Even your weakest link should be cyber fit

While we’re working on our own cyber security and doing our best to keep our Cyber Fitness level up, we need to keep in mind that our small business isn’t an island. We are doing our very best to set up the right standards, to fortify our defences and minimise risk wherever possible. Shouldn’t that be enough?

Maybe for your own four walls, but remember that we’re not the only ones that can fall victim to a cyber attack. The partners we work with are equally prone to danger. 🤝

While you are working on your own Cyber Fitness, you should encourage your suppliers and partners to do the same. It is up to you to make sure that your suppliers apply a similar if not higher level of cyber security measures as you. Especially if they end up handling your sensitive data. Ensure that your data will be treated just as carefully by them as they are by you. In the end, it is still your responsibility to ensure that your data is not jeopardised anywhere along the supply chain.

As an example, you can include cyber security in your contracts with suppliers. Work together with them to ensure that your data and systems will be treated appropriately. Communicate your expectations and verify if they are executable. You should work alongside your suppliers to make sure that your supply chain meets the right standards. After all, your supply chain is only ever as strong as its weakest link. So make sure that even the least resourced supplier to your business is as cyber fit as the others! 🏋️💥

If you’re unsure how to strengthen your supply chain, check out our Cynch membership platform! While we inform you of changes in the cyber security landscape, we can also help you communicate your requirements to your suppliers. We’ll show you what you should be wary of and what you should consider when establishing agreements with your partners. 

Consider everyone you’re working with, not just for your own sake, but also for the sake of your customers. It is vital that you don’t lose their trust through an avoidable risk introduced by one of your partners. You must ensure that your data is handled well, no matter who’s handling it.

So don’t wait until your weakest link makes a mistake that brings your entire supply chain to a halt. Take action now! Strengthen your partners to become as cyber fit as can be! 💪