Cybersecurity can feel like one of those things that’s always someone else’s problem, until it’s not.
But as more and more of our businesses rely on connected tools and cloud software, it’s no longer a separate “IT thing.” It’s part of how we run our business every day.
And when something goes wrong, it’s not just systems that are impacted, it’s reputation, relationships, and revenue.
Small businesses aren’t immune. In fact, they’re often the easiest targets because they’re busy, under-resourced, and stretched across everything from operations to payroll to marketing.
That’s why getting the cybersecurity basics right isn’t about being technical. It’s about being practical.
And that’s where your bookkeeper plays a bigger role than you might realise.
Your bookkeeper is already helping protect your business
If you work with a First Class Accounts bookkeeper, you’re already taking steps to strengthen your cybersecurity. From the tools they recommend, to the way they set up user access, to the secure systems they use to share documents, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes that contributes to your business being safer.
But it’s a two-way street. You’re part of that equation too.
Not keeping old staff logins active. Not using shared passwords across platforms. Not signing up to new apps without checking how they handle data. These day-to-day decisions shape how well-protected your business really is.
Cybersecurity isn’t just software, it’s behaviour. And the more aligned you are with your bookkeeper, the better your setup will be.
Free tools, old habits, and the risks you didn’t know you were taking
One of the hidden risks in small businesses is legacy thinking. That’s using free tools because “they’ve always worked,” or keeping an old spreadsheet because “it’s easier than learning something new.”
But a lot of the platforms that were built for convenience, like downloadable invoice templates or basic payroll calculators, just weren’t designed for security.
The same goes for relying on personal email addresses, or tools that haven’t been updated in years. These systems might feel familiar, but they could be the weakest link in your business. And in many cases, they’re not even needed anymore.
Your bookkeeper can help you migrate to better tools, introduce safer ways of working, and reduce the need for manual workarounds that open you up to risk.
What cybersecurity has to do with business continuity
When a cyber incident happens, the biggest issue isn’t just data loss, it’s downtime. If you can’t access your software, if your accounts team is locked out, or if you’re unsure who’s been compromised, it can grind your business to a halt.
Missed payments. Delayed payroll. Inaccurate reporting. These problems stack up quickly.
Cybersecurity, then, becomes a key part of business continuity planning. Just like you’d have a plan for staff sick leave or supply chain disruption, your business also needs a plan for digital disruption.
This doesn’t have to be complex. Even something as simple as understanding who to call if something doesn’t look right, or having a secure backup of critical data, can make a difference.
Building client trust through secure systems
The way you handle sensitive information says a lot about your business. And people notice.
Whether it’s suppliers trusting you with their bank details, or employees relying on you to keep their TFNs safe, cybersecurity is part of building trust. It’s also something that can set you apart.
Clients want to work with businesses that take their responsibilities seriously. Secure systems, good processes, and support from a trusted bookkeeper help reinforce that. And in a competitive environment, that level of professionalism matters.
Cybersecurity isn’t just about avoiding mistakes, it’s about showing the people you work with that you’ve got things under control.
Questions to ask before adding new software
If you’re thinking about adding a new app or digital tool to your business, don’t just look at features and pricing. Think about how it integrates with your existing systems, how it stores data, whether it supports multi-factor authentication, and if there’s proper support when things go wrong.
Your bookkeeper can be a valuable sounding board here. We regularly help clients assess whether new apps are suitable, not just from a workflow point of view, but from a risk and compliance perspective too.
Even if the tool is outside your bookkeeping or payroll software, it’s still worth a conversation.
What cyber insurance can and can’t do for you
Cyber insurance can help cover the costs of recovery if your business experiences a cyber incident. That might include things like bringing in IT support, restoring data, managing reputational damage, or even dealing with legal and regulatory obligations.
But it doesn’t cover everything. If you’re already relying on general business insurance, it’s worth checking the fine print. Many standard policies exclude cyber incidents altogether. And even dedicated cyber insurance usually comes with conditions, like maintaining certain security practices or using approved software.
Treat cyber insurance like any other business protection. It’s a safety net, not a solution. And it only works if the rest of your business processes are solid.
You’re not on your own – support from FCA partnerships
One of the biggest benefits of working with a First Class Accounts bookkeeper is access to trusted partnerships.
We work with leading platforms like MYOB, Xero, QuickBooks, and Reckon, and these partnerships give you access to best-in-class software, training, and secure systems that are constantly updated to reflect current threats.
These aren’t just toolkits, they’re part of a bigger network designed to keep your business running smoothly. And your bookkeeper can help you get the most from them, whether that means setting up secure integrations, introducing new features, or helping you phase out systems that no longer serve you.
If you’re not sure what tools you’re currently using, or which ones are leaving you vulnerable, it might be time for a quick review. We can help with that too.
Final thought
Cybersecurity isn’t just about stopping bad actors. It’s about building a business that’s stable, secure, and trusted – both by the people who work with you, and the people you serve.
At First Class Accounts, we’re here to support you with the right systems, the right advice, and the right tools to help your business stay protected. If you’d like to talk about how your current setup stacks up, or how to make it better, we’re ready when you are.
