Business breakfast for SMEs will discuss cyber security and fraud protection

Joanne Sweeney
BUSINESSES across Carlow are invited to fortify their defences against modern security threats at the ‘Fortify SME Business Breakfast: cyber, physical, systems and fraud protection’ on Thursday 6 March in the Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow.
This event is designed to equip small businesses with security tools and strategies and is part of Local Enterprise Week organised by the County Carlow Chamber of Commerce, Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce, Kilkenny and Carlow county councils’ Local Enterprise Offices. In an era of increasing interconnectedness, SMEs face a wide range of security risks from cyberattacks and physical breaches to system vulnerabilities and fraudulent schemes. This breakfast event will provide actionable insights into mitigating these risks.
Séamus Doran, assistant head of economic development and enterprise in Carlow County Council's Local Enterprise Office, emphasised the crucial nature of this event for local businesses: “The Fortify SME Business Breakfast offers a unique opportunity for businesses in Carlow and Kilkenny to gain expert knowledge and practical strategies to protect their operations. We are committed to supporting our local SMEs and this event is a key initiative in that effort.”
Joanne Sweeney, event MC and digital marketing expert, expressed her enthusiasm for hosting the event: “I am delighted to be part of an event that addresses such a critical issue for SMEs. The landscape of security threats is constantly evolving and it's essential for businesses to stay informed and prepared. I look forward to facilitating insightful discussions and helping attendees connect with the experts, who can help them build a more resilient business.” The event will feature presentations from Sergeant Eoin O’Connell of the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau (GNCCB) on the current cyber-threat landscape. Sinead McCaul, Bank of Ireland, on fraud protection. Stephen Burke, Security Risk Advisers, on strengthening cybersecurity frameworks. Colin Hayes, Netwatch, on enhancing security for SMEs and Tom Walshe from Business IT Solutions on best practices in systems protection. The event will also include a networking breakfast and a panel discussion featuring all the experts. Register to attend for free at localenterprise.ie/carlow and localenterprise.ie/kilkenny