For the third consecutive year Phillips Solicitors have achieved Cyber Essentials accreditation.

This is a Government-backed scheme that helps firms to guard against the most common cyber threats and demonstrate their commitment to cyber security.

Head of IT Mike Worth said: “At Phillips we take cybersecurity incredibly seriously which is why we are delighted to receive this accreditation once again. We are in fact the only small to medium-sized firm of solicitors in Basingstoke to have achieved this accreditation.”

Cybercrime fraud is a real and increasing threat, particularly with the risk of criminals intercepting emails and fraudulently changing legitimate bank account details with the objective of stealing money.

According to the Government, 80% of cyberattacks could be prevented if organisations put simple cyber security controls in place.

The scheme has been developed in partnership with the Information Assurance for Small and Medium Enterprises Consortium (IASME) and the Information Security Forum (ISF), providing guidance on the basic safety measures all organisations should use to mitigate the risk of common cyberattacks.

Cyber Essentials accreditation allows businesses to demonstrate to customers, investors, insurers and others bodies that they have taken essential precautions to protect themselves against prevalent internet threats.

At Phillips we ask our clients to be vigilant and ensure caution at all times when responding to any requests for their bank details.

Phillips Solicitors bank account details will not change during the course of a transaction.

Our advice is to speak to your Solicitor before transferring any money. If you receive an email or any other method of contact from us requesting or changing bank details, please contact your Solicitor immediately to clarify. Be aware that a phishing email (an email not from a legitimate source) may contain fraudulent contact details, so please identify our contact details via other means.

To find out more visit www.cyberaware.gov.uk/cyberessentials and www.iasme.co.uk/