Falling victim to a ‘cyber attack’ and the often devastating consequences is a major concern for all businesses.

But help is at hand in East Lancashire later this month thanks to a special interactive event.

The NatWest bank is to join forces with leading cyber security experts Holker IT to stage ‘Cyber Security for Business’ at NatWest’s Ewood House offices at Walker Park in Blackburn on Wednesday March 29th.

Attendees will experience a real-world cyber attack first hand, discover all the different types of attacks and learn how to best protect network, data, systems and employees.

“Cyber security is very topical and every business is vulnerable to attack,” says Matthew Metcalfe, managing director at Colne-based Holker IT, a Cyber Essentials Plus accredited company (Cyber Security Essentials is a Government-backed scheme).

“It is imperative that all firms - small, medium or large - take the necessary steps to ensure their computer systems are protected from theft and damage to both hardware and software.”

Adam Clayton, business growth enabler at NatWest, said: “The consequences of a cyber security attack can be costly both to reputation and finances.

“Businesses are very concerned about the situation and with good reason. Long gone are the days when the big threat was a physical break-in, now the theft is taking place via computer systems and businesses are being targeted right, left and centre.

“That is why we have decided to organise this event and we are delighted that Holker IT, a leader in the field of cyber security, has agreed to team up with us.  We feel sure that the event will be very beneficial and urge local business people to join us. Places are limited so the quicker people book in the better.”

The event will start at 8.30am and run for three hours, including time for networking and questions and answers.

Contact Adam Clayton (adam.clayton@natwest.com) or Natalie Moulden (natalie.moulden@holkerit.co.uk) to reserve a place.