A first-of-its kind free event for North Wales business owners on how to keep their businesses safe from cybercrime took place at Wrexham University this week. 

Hosted by North Wales Police and the Police and Crime Commissioner for North Wales Andy Dunbobbin, the event, named Cyber Security North Wales, brought together more than 100 business owners, emergency services personnel, and government and third sector partners from across the region for the all-day conference.

Cybercrime is crime involving or targeting a computer, computer network or networked device. 

This type of crime is mostly carried out by cybercriminals or hackers for financial gain, making it a growing concern for everyone, including businesses.

READ MORE: PACT looking to recruit volunteers across North Wales

The event featured key voices and organisations discussing simple steps that every business can take to protect themselves.

As well as keynote talks, the event also featured an exhibition area and afternoon interactive workshops to enable delegates to keep their business operations secure. 

Mr Dunbobbin said: “The way crime operates has changed dramatically over recent years. Scams and online attacks currently account for almost half of all offences. 

"The reality of these crimes means people can lose life savings in seconds, and businesses can lose their livelihoods and the confidence of their customers and suppliers.

“Just recently, we have seen several household names affected by the MOVEit Transfer tool ransomware attack. 

READ MORE: Inspector's views on body worn cameras after police officers assaulted

"But cybercrime isn’t just a threat for big, multinational companies, it’s an issue for local SMEs here in North Wales as well. And these are businesses that can ill afford the cost and pain of a cyber attack.

"They have been through so much in recent years, with the pandemic, energy price crisis and cost of living pressures. As such, cybercrime is a further problem that for many businesses could prove fatal.

“That’s why it’s important that events like Cyber Security North Wales take place, so that business owners know the police and I have their interests at heart and so that they have the tools and knowledge to get on with doing what they do best – growing their businesses and driving the economic engine that we all depend on.”