Imagine walking into your office on a Monday morning, ready to tackle the week, only to find every file on your system locked. A message on your screen demands $200,000 in Bitcoin to unlock your data. No access to client files, no ability to trade, and your staff sitting idle. It’s a nightmare scenario, but one that’s becoming increasingly common in today’s digital landscape.
This is where Andy Price and his team at Initial IT step in. I had the pleasure of hosting Andy on my Quite Peckish Podcast, where we discussed not just the technical side of cybersecurity but the human side of it too. Andy’s approach is all about making IT simple, secure, and stress-free for business owners who want to focus on running their businesses. Initial IT is a multi-award-winning company with numerous 5-star reviews on Google from satisfied clients, further adding credibility to the work they do.
You can watch the full video podcast with Andy here: YouTube or listen on Spotify.
Personal Connection
As someone who shares a passion for IT, though admittedly not on Andy’s level, I found our conversation deeply inspiring. It reminded me of my own childhood, fixing computers and finding joy in problem-solving. It’s amazing to see how Andy has turned his passion into a mission that’s making a real difference.
Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever
Andy shared some eye-opening insights during our conversation. For instance, the rise of AI has made phishing emails almost indistinguishable from legitimate ones. Hackers can now craft emails in perfect UK English, making it harder than ever to spot the red flags. And it’s not just big corporations that are at risk; small businesses are prime targets because they often lack the resources to defend themselves.
One of the most shocking stats Andy mentioned? Implementing multifactor authentication can prevent 99% of account breaches. Yet, so many businesses overlook this simple, effective measure because they see it as a hassle. Andy’s team at Initial IT works to change that mindset, showing businesses how simple steps can make a massive difference in protecting their operations.
A Human-Centred Approach to IT
What sets Andy apart is his ability to break down complex technical challenges into simple, actionable steps. During our chat, he explained how Initial IT doesn’t just focus on the tech; it focuses on the people using it. Whether it’s rolling out security awareness training to help staff spot phishing emails or creating a 90-day roadmap to take businesses from chaos to clarity, Andy’s approach is all about empowering business owners.
One of the most impactful parts of our conversation was hearing about the simulated ransomware attack, Initial IT runs for clients. These exercises highlight vulnerabilities and prepare businesses to respond effectively if the worst happens. It’s not just about prevention, it’s about having a strategy to recover quickly and minimise damage.
Why This Matters
Cybersecurity isn’t just a technical issue; it’s a business issue. A ransomware attack doesn’t just lock your files; it can grind your business to a halt, damage your reputation, and cost you clients. Andy’s work is a reminder that investing in IT isn’t just about avoiding problems; it’s about creating a foundation for growth and resilience.
If you’re a business owner worried about your IT setup or cybersecurity, I can’t recommend Andy and Initial IT enough. Check out our full conversation on YouTube or Spotify to learn more about how they’re helping businesses stay safe in an increasingly complex digital world.
YouTube: https://youtu.be/4ydotZY47HU
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1IYUXVRRAj42gtKlfaT34w
Andy Price and Initial IT are proof that cybersecurity doesn’t have to be overwhelming or inaccessible. It’s about taking proactive steps, building trust, and creating a culture where technology supports your business rather than holding it back. If you’re not already thinking about your IT strategy, now’s the time to start. And if you need a guide, Andy’s your guy.
Where to Find Initial IT
If you’re a small business owner feeling overwhelmed by IT or cybersecurity, I can’t recommend Andy and Initial IT enough. You can find more about Andy and his company at:
It’s worth checking out his posts—they’re packed with insights that could save you money and protect your business.