In an age where digital assets are as valuable as physical ones, protecting your investments from cyber threats is paramount. The recent surge in targeted attacks on individuals with significant financial resources underscores the importance of proactive cybersecurity measures. The UK National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has provided guidance tailored to high-risk individuals, including investors, to fortify their defences against directed attacks. Here's a comprehensive overview of key cybersecurity practices, augmented with insights tailored to safeguarding your investments:

Understanding High-Risk Individuals:

The NCSC defines high-risk individuals as those with access to sensitive information that may be of interest to nation-state actors. While traditionally associated with political, academic, journalistic, and legal spheres, the definition extends to investors due to the increasing prevalence of targeted attacks aimed at financial gain.

Combatting Spearphishing Attacks:

Investors, with their financial influence, are prime targets for spearphishing attacks – sophisticated attempts to deceive individuals into divulging sensitive information or initiating unauthorized transactions. Recognizing this threat, it is imperative for investors to fortify their accounts across all online platforms, especially those serving as gateways to financial assets.

Key Security Measures:

• Strong Passwords: Create complex, multi-word passwords exclusive to each account/website. Utilise password managers to generate and store intricate passwords securely.
• Two-Step Verification (Multi-Factor Authentication): Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to add an additional layer of security.
• Protecting Your Devices: Regularly update and secure all devices, including laptops, computers, tablets, and mobile phones. With MFA enabled, prioritise the security of your mobile device, which becomes integral to your account protection.
• Vigilance Against Suspicious Activity: Stay vigilant for any signs of unauthorised access or suspicious behaviour. Promptly report any unusual activity to the account/website providers without disclosing sensitive information.

Empowering Investors Through Proactive Security:

By adhering to these cybersecurity best practices, investors can mitigate the risks associated with online threats and safeguard their financial assets. While most websites, particularly those in finance, offer robust security features, it is essential for users to proactively utilise these tools and remain vigilant against evolving cyber threats.

Conclusion:

Investing in cybersecurity is not just a matter of protecting digital assets; it is safeguarding financial well-being. As high-risk individuals in the digital landscape, investors must prioritize proactive security measures to defend against targeted attacks. By implementing strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, securing devices, and remaining vigilant against suspicious activity, investors can navigate the digital realm with confidence, ensuring the safety and security of their investments.

In the realm of investments, cybersecurity is not an option – it is a necessity.

Sapphire Capital Partners LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 565716). The content is for information purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation to invest. SEIS and EIS tax reliefs depend on individual circumstances and may change. The value of investments may go down as well as up, and investors may not get back the full amount invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.  Investment outcomes can differ substantially, potentially resulting in the loss of all your capital invested. Shares in early-stage companies are illiquid: you may be unable to sell your holding for several years, if at all. Investors should not rely on this article as a basis for investment decisions and must consider the illiquid and high-risk nature of early-stage investing. No warranty as to future outcome is implied nor should one be inferred. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may be subject to change. Investments of this type are generally not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme or the Financial Ombudsman Service if the underlying companies fail.