// TECH TRENDS //

EASA specialises in turning complex spreadsheets and legacy tools into secure, scalable web apps without traditional coding. Sebastian Dewhurst, Founder of EASA, discusses how SMEs can leverage spreadsheets for maximum output.

Identifying the potential security risks spreadsheets contain

Spreadsheets are the backbone of every SME( small and medium enterprise), serving as tools for managing everything from financial tools and sales forecasts to customer databases and inventory lists. The accessibility and versatility have proven spreadsheets to be an indispensable tool for daily admin tasks, making this an attractive option for many SMEs, especially as they are cost-effective and easy to use.

However, this comes at a price. Easy access can ultimately create security vulnerabilities when it comes to protecting sensitive business data. Without the right safeguarding processes in place, one spreadsheet can easily become a Trojan Horse for multiple data breaches, which can spiral into a domino effect of consequences for the business.

For SMEs, data is king. It is the core framework that drives a business, and if this information ends up in the wrong hands, the consequences will be severe. Unlike other business systems, spreadsheets lack the necessary built-in systems needed to protect the data as they are often stored on local and cloud drives, as well as shared with ease amongst multiple people.

Sharing spreadsheets using macros or VBA( Visual Basic for Applications) conventionally can lead to difficulties such as version control issues, compatibility problems, user errors and large file sizes. More importantly, it introduces a huge security risk that opens a Pandora’ s box of issues that include the potential for malware data manipulation and harmful automation to say the least.

Although convenient, this can build up dangerous habits that can lead to unauthorised access to sensitive info, as well as phishing attacks that can happen through spreadsheets that have been maliciously altered. For SMEs with limited resources, these types of threats are even more dangerous.

WHAT SMES CAN DO TO PROTECT THEMSELVES

A strong password goes a long way

There are numerous ways in which SMEs can take steps to protect themselves. First and foremost, businesses should strengthen their passwords. Current spreadsheet software, such as Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets, offers file-level password protection, which should be activated automatically for any spreadsheet that contains sensitive information. All passwords should

14 Intelligent SME. tech