Combatting cybercrime with Felixstowe Chamber

Thanks to everyone who joined us at our Cyber Security Business Brunch at Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club on 23rd March.

Our tremendous appreciation goes to John Greenwood, Cyber Security Advisor of Specialist Crime and Intelligence, Protective Services Command of the Norfolk & Suffolk Constabulary, for educating us on cyber security and the sensible precautionary measures that we can all undertake in our businesses.

And John’s cyber escape rooms proved a great hit…something to stimulate those ‘little grey cells’ early in the day and certificates were awarded to the teams who successfully completed the challenge!

Paul Borroughs, Chair of Felixstowe Chamber, said:

“We were lucky to have a blue-sky, sunny morning to enjoy the views from Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club and its proximity to the Deben estuary. I believe that it was the first time that Felixstowe Chamber of Commerce has held an event at this valuable Felixstowe asset.

“Jo Ferris, representing the multiple roles of ‘Vice Commodore’, ‘Felixstowe Rowing Club Chair’ and ‘Engagement Specialist of New Anglian Growth Hub’, ensured that our members and guests were well attended to throughout.

“John Greenwood, Cyber Security Advisor of Norfolk and Suffolk Police, exceeded expectations and delivered an excellent, engaging presentation and workshop on the subject. The cyber escape kits for the six teams offered the added pressure of a 30-minute timer to complete the educational tasks, whilst simultaneously raising awareness of the vulnerabilities that many businesses and individuals fall prey to.  

“By the end of the talks, I think that everyone understood the importance of taking (urgent) action on implementing changes in policy and practice to reduce unnecessary risks.

“Hopefully, we as the Chamber have done our bit to help these Felixstowe businesses and individuals to a safer and more secure future online, aware of the potential risks of cybercrime.”

Ian Davidson, of new Silver member Currys Business, commented: 

“It was a fun event, but with a serious message, and John shared some very useful tips on how to keep ourselves and our businesses safe and secure online. The best part being it was about behaviours being more important than products – great news for SMEs.”

John added:

“We told you it would be competitive! A very good 27:40 was the quickest time on the day, though the current record in Suffolk is 16:50!”