The Cyber Resilience Centre for Wales (WCRC) has partnered with the Welsh Government to offer free cyber security training to social care organizations in Wales. This initiative aims to combat the increasing threat of cyber-attacks by equipping staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to prevent attacks and protect sensitive data. The training program, called Cyber Ninjas, consists of twelve modules and is delivered through Matobo Learning’s platform. By participating in this opportunity, Welsh social care organizations can enhance their cyber security measures and navigate the digital landscape with confidence.
In today’s digital world, cyber-attacks are a major concern. Cyber criminals are always looking for new targets to exploit, and no sector is safe from their malicious activities. The WCRC has taken proactive steps to address this issue by focusing on the vulnerability of the Welsh social care sector.
The social care sector is crucial to the UK economy, contributing £51 billion. However, this also makes it an attractive target for cyber criminals. Ransomware is a particularly significant threat. A successful cyber-attack or data breach can have severe consequences, leading to operational disaster and severe reputational damage, especially when sensitive data about loved ones is compromised.
To counter these threats, the WCRC has developed the Cyber Ninjas training scheme. This program, delivered by Matobo Learning, provides funding for 2,500 social care training licenses in cyber security. It offers staff in the sector free access to this valuable resource, allowing them to build their knowledge and skills in preventing cyber-attacks.
The Cyber Ninjas training scheme consists of twelve modules, each with individual lessons. These lessons cover essential steps to take while working online to prevent cyber-attacks like phishing and hacking. What sets this training apart is its interactive and engaging nature, which has received positive feedback from thousands of learners.
“We’re excited to introduce Cyber Ninjas to the social care sector in Wales, alongside our existing provision to NHS Wales and all Welsh-elected members and councillors,” said Ben Giles, managing director of Matobo Learning. The training has already been recognized and awarded National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) Assured Training status.
Paul Peters, Director of the WCRC, is pleased to raise awareness of the available training to support the Welsh care sector in improving its cyber readiness. He emphasizes the importance of not being complacent when it comes to cyber security. “Cyber security is not something that the sector can afford to be complacent about; it requires a team effort to understand the risks and adhere to basic guidance,” he stated.
The training program consists of two hours of online lessons that can be easily tracked and includes knowledge checks. Its goal is to equip social care organizations with the necessary skills and knowledge to protect themselves and their clients from potential cyber threats. The aim is to promote cyber resilience across Wales and ensure that the sector is well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the digital age.
Reg Kilpatrick, Director General of the Covid Recovery and Local Government Group at the Welsh Government, expressed his delight at the focused support provided by the Cyber Ninjas training scheme. “I am delighted to see this direct and focused support to help improve and strengthen cyber resilience across the care sector in Wales,” he remarked.
Welsh social care organizations can enroll their staff in the free Cyber Ninjas training program through the WCRC website, www.wcrcentre.co.uk. This initiative presents an excellent opportunity for the sector to enhance its cyber security measures and protect itself against potential threats.
In today’s digital landscape, cyber security is crucial for any organization. With the support of the WCRC and the Welsh Government, the social care sector in Wales has the chance to strengthen its defenses and ensure the safety of its sensitive data. By embracing the Cyber Ninjas training scheme, Welsh social care organizations can navigate the digital landscape with confidence, knowing they are equipped to face the challenges ahead.
