The Cost of Doing Nothing: Why Cybersecurity Inaction is the Biggest Risk of All
If you're a business owner or a key decision-maker, you're already familiar with the inherent risks of running a company. But when it comes to cybersecurity, the most significant threat may not come from external attackers, it may stem from the assumption that, “we’re probably fine.”
“When it comes to cybersecurity, the biggest threat might not be those that are trying to exploit you, but instead it's the assumption that ‘we’re ‘probably fine'.”
Jordan Gall, Head of Cybersecurity, B.TECH
In 2025, an estimated 43% of UK businesses will experience a cybersecurity breach, attack, or compromised account. That’s approximately 600,000 victims, with the majority being small to medium-sized enterprises. Despite this, many still approach cybersecurity as a “set-it-and-forget-it” initiative or merely a compliance checkbox for auditor or regulators. The truth is, routine, iterative action is essential to staying secure.
In one of our recent articles, ‘How to Prevent the Most Common Cybersecurity Breaches’ (https://buchanantechnology.co.uk/insights/how-to-prevent-the-most-common-cybersecurity-breaches), we outlined the most frequent types of breaches and how to mitigate them. The key takeaway was that neglecting cybersecurity year after year can lead to serious consequences. Every unpatched vulnerability, every delay in prioritizing security, is a door left ajar.
The reality is stark: disruptive breaches can cost tens of thousands of pounds in direct losses and regulatory fines and reputational damage often amplify that figure. Alarmingly, 95% of successful breaches are attributed to human error. With the FCA expected to introduce more stringent regulations in 2026, proactive compliance is quickly shifting from a best practice to a business necessity.
On a more positive note, businesses with technical certifications are 92% less likely to file a cyber-related insurance claim. Moreover, 79% of surveyed companies with Cyber Essentials certifications reported a boost in client confidence. Many of our clients renew their certifications annually and consistently see the benefits firsthand.
So, what can you do, today –
Complete an audit of the cybersecurity across your business, including hardware (devices), software (platforms), and people (training). If it helps, we have an online cybersecurity assessment, which is quick and easy (and free) – Scorecard | Buchanan Technology.
Consider getting a cybersecurity certification, such as Cyber Essentials, which helps to support that the security in place is fit for purpose, and has the added benefit of enhancing the client experience.
Deploy a managed solution. There are several on the market, but please consider our solution, Secure365, in your research/comparisons of available options. More details can be found here - www.buchanantechnology.co.uk.
As a supporting note, be mindful of exclusively software-based cybersecurity solutions. We often find they are good at monitoring, but not locking the cybersecurity doors and windows of your business.
As the business landscape becomes increasingly digital, protecting your online assets is just as critical, if not more so, than securing your physical premises. Whether you're operating from an office or embracing hybrid work (which we fully support), cybersecurity should be treated with the same level of diligence.
You wouldn’t leave your office on a Friday evening with the doors and windows wide open. Likewise, we wouldn’t recommend leaving your digital infrastructure exposed.
Cybersecurity isn’t a one-time setup, it’s an ongoing responsibility that safeguards your business every day. The cost of doing nothing? It's a risk no business can honestly afford.
