In response to a sharp increase in cyber threats targeting local businesses, DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited (“DBS Hong Kong”) today announced the launch of the “DBS #CyberWellness Programme for SMEs” — a complimentary cybersecurity training initiative available exclusively to our small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) banking clients, providing them with practical cyber safety skills to defend against growing cyber threats.

“DBS #CyberWellness Programme” is tailored for SMEs and is designed for non-technical users. The programme provides essential cyber safety knowledge through an easy-to-follow online learning programme, consisting of 12 bite-sized modules, each of which takes around 10 minutes to complete. The modules cover key digital risk topics such as phishing, ransomware, password protection, mobile device security, data backup, vishing and smishing, online scam and digital transactions, public Wi-Fi, basic cybersecurity practices, and social media privacy and security. Participants can complete the programme at their own pace anytime, anywhere via the online platform.

Lareina Wang, Managing Director and Head of SME Banking, DBS Hong Kong, said, “Cybercrime has evolved beyond a technical challenge to a critical business risk that can significantly disrupt operations and damage reputations. We recognise the vulnerability that many SMEs face due to limited or a lack of resources, infrastructure and knowledge in this area. DBS #CyberWellness programme provides a thorough and pragmatic content. We look forward to empowering our clients with accessible, practical knowledge and tools to safeguard their cyber resilience.

This launch follows alarming figures released in the latest “Cybersecurity Report 2024” by the Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau (CSTCB), which recorded over 33,900 technology crime cases recorded last year, and identified more than 440,000 cyber threats specifically targeting Hong Kong.

The DBS #CyberWellness Programme for SMEs is part of DBS Hong Kong’s broader commitment to equipping businesses not just with diversified financial tools, but with essential digital know-how to strengthen their digital defence and navigate the evolving threat landscape.

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About DBS

DBS is a leading financial services group in Asia with a presence in 19 markets. Headquartered and listed in Singapore, DBS is in the three key Asian axes of growth: Greater China, Southeast Asia and South Asia. The bank's "AA-" and "Aa1" credit ratings are among the highest in the world.

Recognised for its global leadership, DBS has been named “World’s Best Bank” by Global Finance, “World’s Best Bank” by Euromoney and “Global Bank of the Year” by The Banker. The bank is at the forefront of leveraging digital technology to shape the future of banking, having been named “World’s Best Digital Bank” by Euromoney and the world’s “Most Innovative in Digital Banking” by The Banker. In addition, DBS has been accorded the “Safest Bank in Asia“ award by Global Finance for 16 consecutive years from 2009 to 2024.

DBS provides a full range of services in consumer, SME and corporate banking. As a bank born and bred in Asia, DBS understands the intricacies of doing business in the region’s most dynamic markets. DBS is committed to building lasting relationships with customers, as it banks the Asian way. Through the DBS Foundation, the bank creates impact beyond banking by supporting social enterprises: businesses with a double bottom-line of profit and social and/or environmental impact. DBS Foundation also gives back to society in various ways, including equipping communities with future-ready skills and building food resilience.

With its extensive network of operations in Asia and emphasis on engaging and empowering its staff, DBS presents exciting career opportunities. For more information, please visit www.dbs.com.

DBS Hong Kong rolls out free cybersecurity training to shield SMEs against cybercrime