BRC launches toolkit to combat retail cyber attacks

The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has developed a new toolkit which supports business leaders in taking steps to reduce the threat of a cyber attack in the retail sector.

Experts from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) have assisted in the production of the BRC’s toolkit.

The ‘Cyber Resilience Toolkit for Retail’ is an actionable guide specifically designed for non-cyber experts and highlights threats faced by retailers, key questions to consider when developing cyber resilience strategies, and guidance on the types of protections retailers should implement.

It comes as retailers spent £186m on cybersecurity last year.

In addition, consumers have shifted to buying online since the start of the pandemic, with online sales counting for over a third of all retail sales (32.8%) since May, which is a big jump from 18.8% a year earlier.

Helen Dickinson OBE, chief executive of the BRC, said: ‘In recent months, the use of technology in the retail industry has evolved as retailers adapt to new consumer habits and the challenges of the pandemic. 

“Last year, retailers spent over £186 million on cybersecurity, but the growth in online selling means there is an increasing threat of new cyber breaches and sophisticated hacking techniques. As a result, retailers need to ensure their systems are watertight and up to date.”

She added: “This toolkit, developed with the input of the NCSC, will ensure all retailers, no matter their size or level of cyber expertise, are well-equipped to face the challenge of cyber security. 

“This is yet another example of the BRC supporting retailers through the ongoing digital transformation. Furthermore, consumers must also play their part, and more must be done to educate the public on basic cyber hygiene so that they are able to browse and shop safely.”

Dr. Ian Levy, technical director of the NCSC, said: “We want to keep shoppers’ data, identity and privacy safe, and to ensure that the retail sector is well equipped to face the cyber challenges associated with an ever-more digital world.

“The new BRC toolkit has been written in a way that is clear and concise so that it can be understood by retailers and those with a cyber specialism. I urge all key-decision makers in the industry to familiarise themselves with the toolkit and act on it.”