Cyber threats are growing, and they’re no longer just an IT department problem. From phishing scams to ransomware, every business is now a target, and one of the biggest risks facing SMBs today is the assumption that they’re too small to be one.

That’s why we brought together local business leaders, IT managers and decision-makers at the Pax8 offices for a free cybersecurity masterclass. No jargon or fear tactics, just practical advice people could walk away with and actually use.

Meet Jason Hart

At the centre of the session was Jason Hart, an award-winning, globally recognised cybersecurity expert with over 30 years of experience, including senior roles at Thales and Rapid7.

Rather than dwelling on the scale of the problem, Jason focused on solutions — real, practical steps attendees could start implementing the moment they walked out the door.

What Attendees Walked Away With

By the end of the session, attendees left with more than just notes. They left with a strategy and the confidence to act on it. Specifically:

  • A clear plan to protect their business online
  • A checklist of common, costly mistakes to avoid
  • A team-alignment strategy to get everyone on board
  • Simple steps that save time, money, and a fair amount of stress

The Key Takeaways

Cybersecurity is everyone’s job. Good security isn’t just about software, it’s about building a culture where every member of staff knows how to spot a threat.

Most cyber attacks are preventable. From weak passwords to phishing emails, the majority of common risks can be avoided with the right training and habits.

Fixing a breach costs far more than preventing one. Cybercrime is projected to cost the world over $10 trillion by 2026. The earlier a business invests in protection, the better the return.

Communication is what makes security stick. Jason demonstrated how to explain technical risk in plain language that gets genuine buy-in across a business, not just from the IT team.

Why Events Like This Matter

This wasn’t just another seminar. It was a reminder that in 2025 and going forward, knowing how to protect your business isn’t optional. It’s a competitive advantage.

By keeping the session free, practical, and in person, we wanted to give local leaders a genuine opportunity to learn, connect, and take control of their digital safety without it feeling overwhelming.

What’s Next?

If you missed this one, there’s more on the way. Follow us on LinkedIn to be the first to hear about upcoming events, insights, and practical guides that take the stress out of cybersecurity.

Because when it comes to protecting your business, the best strategy is the one you start today.

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Nebula IT is an NCSC Assured managed IT provider supporting SMEs, charities and regulated organisations across Bristol, the South West, and the UK.