CBA, Telstra & COSBOA Launch 'Cyber Wardens' to Protect Small Businesses
Australia's largest bank, Commonwealth Bank (CBA), and telecommunications giant Telstra have teamed up with the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) to tackle the growing threat of cyber crime against small businesses. The 'Cyber Wardens' program aims to empower small business owners and employees with crucial cybersecurity awareness skills, protecting the economy from annual losses of $29 billion.
The initiative, developed in collaboration with data, strategy, and delivery agency 89 Degrees East and COSBOA, will offer a free, accredited e-learning platform. This platform aims to upskill non-tech employees, making online safety tips accessible to all. Mike Vacy-Lyle, CBA's Group Executive for Business Banking, stresses the importance of equipping small businesses with these vital skills, as they are targeted in 43% of Australian cyber crimes, costing owners an average of $9,000.
Anne Da Cunha, Telstra's Small and Medium Business Executive, emphasizes the need to foster a culture of self-determination in cybersecurity awareness. The Cyber Wardens pilot program, designed with non-tech employees in mind, will roll out in the coming months to safeguard Australia's 2.3 million small businesses.
The Cyber Wardens program, backed by CBA, Telstra, and COSBOA, seeks to empower small businesses against cyber threats. By providing free, accredited training tailored to non-tech employees, the initiative aims to create a cybersecurity awareness culture, protecting small businesses and the broader economy.
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