As the UK emerges from another summer heatwave, many of us are looking forward to a well-earned break. Whether employees are working remotely from holiday destinations, taking annual leave, or simply spending more time away from the office, the summer months can create additional data protection and cyber security risks for businesses.

While laptops, mobile phones and cloud-based systems have made flexible working easier than ever, they have also increased the opportunities for data breaches, cyber-attacks and accidental disclosures of sensitive information.

For businesses, summer is the ideal time to review data protection practices and ensure compliance with UK data protection laws. A security incident can happen at any time of year, but periods of reduced staffing, increased travel and remote working can create vulnerabilities that cyber criminals are quick to exploit.

Why Summer Creates Additional Data Protection Risks

One of the most significant risks arises when employees access company systems while travelling. Public Wi-Fi networks, personal devices and shared workspaces can all pose security challenges if appropriate safeguards are not in place.

It is essential that employees understand their responsibilities when handling personal and confidential information outside the office. Businesses should ensure that company devices are protected with strong passwords, encryption and multi-factor authentication wherever possible.

Summer is also a popular time for cyber criminals to target organisations with phishing scams disguised as travel confirmations, booking updates or delivery notifications. A simple reminder to staff to remain vigilant can go a long way in reducing the risk of a successful attack.

What Practical Steps Should Businesses Take?

1. Remind employees of data protection responsibilities

Even the most robust policies can be forgotten if they are not regularly reinforced. A short refresher can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidental breaches.

2. Review remote working policies

Many organisations now operate hybrid or flexible working arrangements. However, employees working from different locations should still be subject to clear security requirements.

Ensure your employees:

· Use company-approved devices where possible;

· Connect through secure VPNs;

· Avoid accessing sensitive information on unsecured public Wi-Fi;

· Lock screens when devices are unattended; and

· Store documents securely.

Lost or stolen devices remain one of the most common causes of personal data breaches.

3. Ensure devices are properly secured

Lost or stolen devices remain one of the most common causes of personal data breaches.

Businesses should ensure that laptops, mobile phones and tablets:

· Are encrypted;

· Require strong passwords or multifactor authentication;

· Have remote wipe functionality enabled; and

· Receive regular software and security updates.

Employees travelling during the summer should be reminded never to leave devices unattended in vehicles or public places.

4. Review your incident response plan

A data breach can occur at any time, including when key personnel are on holiday.

Businesses should ensure they have:

· Clear reporting procedures;

· Designated decision-makers;

· Access to legal and IT support; and

· Up-to-date contact details for relevant personnel.

Under UK law, certain personal data breaches must be reported to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) without undue delay and, where required, within 72 hours of becoming aware of the breach. Delays caused by staff absences can quickly become problematic.

Data Protection Is a Year-Round Responsibility

While the recent heatwave may be behind us, the risks associated with data protection and cyber security do not disappear when the temperature drops.

Taking a few practical steps to strengthen security and reinforce good habits can help ensure that both your employees and your data remain protected throughout the summer and beyond.

If you would like advice on data protection compliance, cyber security policies or responding to a data breach, our team would be happy to help. Please get in touch via email to commercial@berrysmith.com