Leeds based Blok launches first managed cyber security service

Blok, the UK’s first managed cyber security service provider dedicated to small businesses and the self-employed, has today launched to take on the cyber criminals and help protect sole traders, start-ups and organisations with 49 employees or less against rising threats.

According to the Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2021, 38 percent of micro and small businesses reported a cyber security breach or attack in the past 12 months, with 27 percent attacked at least once a week. Where a breach has resulted in a loss of data or assets, the average cost of a cyber attack for micro and small businesses is £8,170.

Based in Leeds, the company has been founded by Helen Phelan and Neil Peacock. Neil has over 20 years experience in the information and cyber security industry, and has specialised in auditing and providing solutions to protect small and medium enterprises. A Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Neil has worked across financial, education, retail, manufacturing, health, and public sectors, identifying vulnerabilities and advising organisations on the best solutions to prevent cyber attacks.

Helen joins just eight percent of cyber security professionals in the UK who are women, and 10 percent of females across the world in management positions within the industry. Helen is responsible for operations at Blok. Drawing on her vast experience of successfully launching and establishing businesses, Helen will manage the finances, implement and execute business development plans, liaise with clients, undertake recruitment and marketing activity.

Neil said: “Small businesses and sole traders don’t think cyber attacks will happen to them, but they’re no less vulnerable. We have launched Blok as we found that although there is lots of advice, there was no organisation dedicated to providing managed security services specifically for small businesses and the self-employed. Drawing on our experience, knowledge and utilising industry leading technologies, Blok is taking on the cyber criminals and making it easier and affordable for our clients to help protect their business and reputation.”

Helen added: “We saw an opportunity to provide small businesses and sole traders with a high quality cyber security service to ensure that they receive immediate protection and peace of mind.

“There is a real lack of female representation in the cyber security industry. I am excited to launch Blok and join a growing number of women breaking the cyber security glass ceiling. Having a more diverse team means we are better placed to engage with our clients and provide the service they need.”

Blok offers a range of cyber security subscription packages which are managed by its expert team 24/7, 365 days a year. These have specifically been designed for small businesses and the self-employed and offer immediate, affordable, comprehensive, endpoint protection, detection and response, cloud security, malware defence, identity protection, network and perimeter security, plus technical support and training.