Retailer confirms cyber attack
Home Depot in the US and Canada has confirmed a breach of data following its announcement last week of some ‘unusual activity’. The retailer says that its payment systems have been compromised and although there is no evidence of payment card PIN numbers being stolen, there is a chance that customers who used cards to pay at Home Depot since April this year could be affected in some way. The company says it does not yet know the full extent of the data breach and is offering customers who may have been affected identity protection and credit checking services free of charge. This is the latest in a series of cyber attacks targeted at retail and finance businesses and while the ones that make the headlines are large firms, SME’s should be aware of the risk to even the smallest businesses. As large companies invest in stronger defences, criminals could well switch their focus to smaller and generally weaker operations.
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FEMA’s National Preparedness Month
The US Federal Emergency Management Agency is urging businesses and home owners to be prepared to tackle disasters and other threats that could occur. The National Preparedness Month campaign urges all sectors of the community to work together to do their bit to mitigate, prevent and react to any disaster or hazard that may occur. For businesses that includes disaster recovery plans to get the business up and running again as quickly as possible after an incident. In support of the campaign the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America is urging businesses to make an inventory to assist with making a claim if the need arises. PCI suggests using the video camera on a smartphone or one of the many online tools to store information about your property. It is also prudent to have copies of essential documents and information stored outside of the business premises, especially copies of insurance policies and equipment invoices and other information that may be useful when making a claim.
New Zealand supports Pacific islands risk management strategy
The government of New Zealand has announced a new strategy to tackle the risk of natural disasters in the Pacific islands region. The islands are vulnerable to tsunamis, earthquakes and cyclones and will benefit from practical improvements in their disaster readiness including early warning systems. The new arrangement will have a focus on better protection for children. Civil Defence Minister Nikki Kaye says: “A key focus of the programme and the Government’s support is also helping Pacific Island nations strengthen their own national capability in readiness, response and recovery. We will also continue to provide expert emergency management support."
