Cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue anymore — it’s a business issue, a leadership issue, and a trust issue
Picture: DCM supplied
Article Excerpt:
Earlier this week we were joined by more than 150 Village Professionals at our Masterclass on Cybersecurity.
Joining us were Lee Shrimpton, Co-Founder of ComwireIT, and Shane Bell, Co-Founder of NSB Cyber.
The take away from this masterclass was clear, cybersecurity is no longer just the domain of IT departments — it’s a leadership imperative.
“Cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue anymore — it’s a business issue, a leadership issue, and a trust issue.”– Shane Bell, NSB Cyber
Targeted scams are on the rise. This is public knowledge. Lee Shrimpton shared that over 87,000 cybercrimes were reported in 2023-24. That’s one every 6 minutes, with the top three being:
1. Email compromises risking in no financial loss (30%)
2. Online banking fraud (13%)
3. Business email compromises resulting in financial loss (13%)
Where there is financial loss for businesses, the average range is $50,000 for small business, and close to $65,000 for larger businesses.
With targeted scams on the rise and a growing reliance on digital systems to manage resident information, village operators must recognise that data protection is about more than technology — it’s about trust.
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Staff training and scam awareness are critical. While technical defences like multi-factor authentication and endpoint detection are essential, human error remains the most common breach point. Building a ‘human shield’ means embedding regular education — especially for frontline and casual staff who often handle sensitive data.
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The masterclass also highlighted growing risks to residents themselves. Scams are becoming more sophisticated — from phishing emails to AI-generated deepfake phone calls impersonating loved ones.
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The take away is clear, leadership and vigilance.
Cybersecurity is not just about preventing loss. It’s about leadership, trust and preparedness.
Source: DCM Institute - Thursday 26th June 2025
Author: James Wiltshire and DCM Institute
Reference: Is Cybersecurity now a leadership responsibility?