UK managed IT provider HDUK is calling on organisations to rethink how they approach cyber security, warning that outdated infrastructure and do-it-yourself security strategies are leaving businesses increasingly vulnerable.
According to recent national guidance, phishing remains the most prevalent form of cyber attack. The UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey continues to show that phishing incidents cause significant operational disruption across organisations of all sizes.
In parallel, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has made clear that organisations are expected to restore access to personal data promptly after an incident, reinforcing the need for tested recovery and continuity plans.
Matt Healey, Managing Director at HDUK, said: “As organisations head into 2026, the risk to business data is not just about cyber criminals getting smarter. It is also about businesses running critical systems on ageing hardware, relying on ad hoc support, and assuming that off the shelf tools will be enough to keep client data safe.
“Keeping devices and infrastructure current, tightening access, improving backup and recovery, and having a clear incident response plan with expert support ready really matters.”
HDUK has also highlighted the security implications of running unsupported systems.
“Running unsupported operating systems and ageing devices increases exposure, because security updates stop and compatibility gaps grow. For example, Windows 10 reached end of support in October 2025, meaning devices still running it in 2026 will not receive security fixes unless covered by specific extended programmes,” Matt added.
The company notes that many organisations overestimate the protection offered by backups alone.
“Backups only matter if ransomware can’t get to them. We see attackers deliberately targeting recovery options, which is why organisations need segregated, ransomware-resistant backups that are regularly tested and ready to use under pressure, in line with NCSC guidance.
“Incident response should be treated as a business process. When something goes wrong, clear roles, rehearsed actions, and fast decisions around containment, communication, and regulatory reporting make the difference.
“Breaches happen when identity, devices, patching, monitoring, and user behaviour aren’t joined up. Real resilience comes from layered, actively managed security, not standalone products.”
HDUK explains that IT support exists on a spectrum, from basic reactive support through to managed security services with continuous monitoring. Businesses are advised to assess their true risk profile and choose support accordingly, rather than defaulting to self-service approaches.
Matt Healey said: “2026 will be the year many businesses feel the true cost of standing still. Unsupported devices, untested backups, and unclear responsibility during an incident are the cracks attackers look for.
“The answer is not panic buying more tools. It is getting the fundamentals right, keeping hardware current, and having a UK based team that can respond quickly, document properly, and help you stay compliant while keeping your people productive.”
