BBC Panorama’s Fighting Cyber Criminals exposes how ransomware gangs are wiping out UK companies - with small businesses now firmly in the firing line.
🚨 Case in Point: Knights of Old Haulage
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A 158-year-old firm in Kettering was wiped out after hackers broke in using a weak password.
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The gang locked their systems and demanded £5 million.
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They couldn’t recover - 700+ jobs lost.
💥 The Big Wake-Up Call
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Cyber gangs now target SMEs, not just big names.
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One weak password or missed update can bring your business down.
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The NCSC urges small firms to act now—not after an attack.
✅ Your 60-Second Cyber Action Plan
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Use strong passwords + turn on MFA.
No more “admin123” - use password managers and enable multi-factor authentication everywhere.
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Back it up, test it.
Backups are useless if they’re not tested. Store them offline or in the cloud.
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Patch everything.
Old software = open door. Update devices, routers, apps—automatically if possible.
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Limit who can access what.
Admin rights only for those who need it. Lock down remote access.
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Train your team.
Staff need to spot phishing, use strong passwords, and report weird activity fast.
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Have a plan.
Know who to call, how to isolate infected devices, and how to communicate in a crisis.
📣 Final Word
Cybercriminals aren’t looking for a challenge - they’re looking for easy wins. Don’t be one.
Take one hour this week to:
It could be the difference between recovery and ruin.
Get in touch
and see how FOS.net call help you secure your business.
