Cyber Attacks Are Evolving: Are You Ready?
3 min read.
What the latest high-profile incidents tell us about cyber security in 2025
Recently publicised cyber attacks on major UK retailers like Marks & Spencer, Co-op and Harrods have once again highlighted the very real and growing threat of cyber crime. From operational disruption to data breaches, the impact on business reputation, customer trust and day-to-day operations can be both immediate and long-lasting.
And it’s not just retailers. Right now, we're also seeing a surge in phishing attacks specifically targeting Microsoft 365 users, using sophisticated social engineering techniques to access inboxes and impersonate internal staff to spread malware or commit fraud.
So what can businesses do to protect themselves?
There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Solution
The truth is, cyber security isn’t just about installing the latest software or checking boxes on compliance forms. Tools like Darktrace and Arctic Wolf deliver powerful threat detection, protection and response, helping organisations stay ahead of evolving cyber risks. But even with the most advanced security technology in place, there’s one factor that remains difficult to control: people.
From clicking on phishing links to using weak passwords or simply lacking the right training, human behaviour continues to be one of the biggest vulnerabilities in any organisation. That’s why a strong cybersecurity strategy needs to combine intelligent tools and ongoing user awareness to be truly effective.
Every organisation has its own systems, risks, and ways of working. That’s why a tailored, people-aware approach is essential.
3 Key Pillars of a Resilient Cyber Security Strategy
1. People & Training
Run regular awareness sessions and phishing simulations.
Enforce strong password policies: use unique, complex passwords.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) everywhere you can.
2. Technology & Tools
Consider behavioural-based threat detection tools like Darktrace or Arctic Wolf.
Use credible email filtering and anti-phishing tools to detect impersonation and credential harvesting.
Ensure password reset protection is configured properly, making it harder for attackers to manipulate account recovery processes.
3. Policies, Processes & Planning
Implement clear cyber security policies and make them part of the onboarding process.
Develop and test an incident response and remediation plan. This is crucial - don’t wait for a breach to find out what’s missing.
Explore cyber insurance, but remember it won’t prevent attacks. It’s a last line of defence, not your strategy.
Social Engineering: The Hidden Danger
Most attacks today are about tricking people. Whether it’s a convincing email from "Microsoft Support" or a spoofed message from a colleague, social engineering is the weapon of choice. The current wave of Microsoft 365 phishing attacks proves just how easy it is to exploit familiarity and trust.
What Should You Do?
If you're unsure how exposed your systems are or what to prioritise then talk to us. At Netprotocol, we help organisations design and implement cyber security strategies that reflect their unique risks, technology stacks, and people. From modernising outdated infrastructure to integrating the latest detection tools, we’ll help you stay protected without overwhelming your team.
Cyber security isn’t just an IT problem. It’s a business-critical issue and we’re here to help you tackle it head-on.
Get in touch with Netprotocol to discuss how we can strengthen your defences and prepare for what’s next.
