Cyber Security for IFAs, Wealth Managers & Financial Advisers
Protect your clients’ portfolios, communications and personal data with a security layer designed for regulated financial firms.
Cyber security for IFAs & wealth managers
You are trusted with some of the most sensitive financial data there is. Client portfolios, pension transfers, identity documents, financial history.
When something goes wrong, it is not just an IT issue. It is a client trust issue, a regulatory issue, and often an insurance issue as well.
We help IFAs, financial advisers and wealth management firms across Chesterfield, Sheffield, Derbyshire, South Yorkshire and the surrounding areas protect client data, secure Microsoft 365 and show clear evidence that cyber security is being taken seriously.
Book a quick security checkWhat we often see in financial advisory firms
Email is the weak point
Most attacks come through phishing, fake DocuSign requests or compromised Microsoft 365 accounts. One account takeover can expose years of client conversations and financial detail.
Security looks fine… until you look closer
MFA is enabled, but not everywhere. Backups exist, but have never been tested. Access is shared between staff. No one has a clear view of what is actually happening.
Compliance is assumed, not evidenced
FCA expectations, GDPR and cyber insurance requirements are understood, but proving controls are in place is where things become unclear.
Why this matters more for IFAs
Financial advisers are a prime target because of the data they hold and the trust they rely on.
Client data, signed documents, bank details and email trails give attackers everything they need to impersonate you convincingly.
Most attacks are not sophisticated breaches. They are login-based. Stolen credentials. Inbox rules. Quiet account takeovers that go unnoticed until money or data moves.
And when it happens, it is not just about recovery. You are dealing with:
- FCA reporting obligations
- ICO considerations
- Client conversations you cannot control
- Insurers asking difficult questions
How we help you stay protected and compliant
Your IT provider keeps things running. We focus on protecting client data, communications and your ability to prove you are in control.
Email & identity protection
Stops phishing, spoofing and account takeover before it reaches your inbox. Focused on Microsoft 365 where most advisory firms operate.
24/7 visibility and response
Detects suspicious logins, unusual behaviour and early signs of compromise so issues are handled before they escalate.
Immutable cloud backup
Ensures client data, emails and records can be recovered if something is deleted, corrupted or encrypted.
Security awareness that actually sticks
Ongoing, practical training that helps your team spot threats and respond properly, without turning it into a once-a-year exercise.
Compliance-ready controls
Built around FCA SYSC, GDPR and cyber insurance expectations so your security holds up when questioned.
Clear, usable reporting
Evidence you can use with auditors, insurers and partners without having to translate technical detail.
What you are really protecting
- Client portfolios and financial records
- Emails, attachments and shared files
- Microsoft 365 and cloud systems
- Regulatory records and audit evidence
- Client trust and reputation
- Your ability to operate day to day
Everything we do is designed to make your security posture visible, practical and defensible.
Who this is for (and who it is not)
This is for you if:
- You are an IFA, wealth manager or financial planning firm
- You rely heavily on Microsoft 365 and email communication
- You want to meet FCA and insurance expectations without overcomplicating things
- You want clarity on your risks and what to fix first
This is not for you if:
- You just want the cheapest antivirus and nothing else
- You are looking for a one-off quick fix
- You are not concerned about client data or compliance pressure
Get a clear view of your security position
We will review your Microsoft 365 setup, email security, backups and Cyber Essentials readiness and give you a straightforward plan that fits your business, your budget and your regulatory obligations.
Book a quick security checkFrequently asked questions
Do small advisory firms really need cyber security controls?
Yes. The expectations are the same whether you are a sole trader or part of a network. You are still responsible for protecting client data and maintaining operational resilience.
Is Cyber Essentials mandatory for IFAs?
Not currently, but insurers and partners increasingly expect it as proof that basic controls are in place.
What are the most common attacks against IFAs?
Phishing emails, account takeover and impersonation attacks are the most common. These usually target Microsoft 365 accounts rather than servers or infrastructure.
How does this help with FCA requirements?
FCA guidance expects firms to protect systems and data and maintain resilience. This approach helps you demonstrate that those controls are in place and monitored.
Cyber security support for different types of organisations
This page is part of our wider industry cyber security hub, covering schools, care providers, charities, professional services, trades, health providers and small businesses across Chesterfield, Derbyshire, Sheffield and South Yorkshire.
Meet Kevin: Founder of Black Swan
Concerned about cyber security? Need advice or a tailor-made quote? Kevin is here to help you!
From actionable advice to helping you to see where you could be at risk, Kevin will help you to get your business on a path that is secure-by-design and ready for the unthinkable.
Ready to replace sleepless nights with peace of mind? It all starts with an informal chat!
Either schedule a call by selecting a suitable date and time on the calendar or by clicking the button below to send us a message.
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