---
title: "Building Resilience for 2026: Recent Cyber Security Events"
description: Discover what recent Azure and WhatsApp security events mean for SMEs and how small, practical steps can strengthen your cyber resilience for 2026.
image: https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/Building-Resilience-for-2026.png
---
[](https://www.grantmcgregor.co.uk/)
- [Home](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/)
- About Us
- [Our Story](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/our-story)
- [Meet the Team](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/meet-the-team)
- [Certifications](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/certifications)
- [Careers](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/careers)
- IT Support Services
- [IT Support Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services)
- [People Centric Support](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/people-centric-support)
- [Enhanced Security Service](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/enhanced-security-service)
- Professional IT Services
- [Professional IT Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services)
- [Microsoft 365](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-365-business-premium)
- [Microsoft Copilot](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-365-copilot)
- [AI Adoption Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/ai-adoption-services)
- [Microsoft Azure](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-azure)
- [MDR](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/mdr-vs-soc-cyber-security-defence)
- [Microsoft Teams Phone](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-teams-phone)
- [KnowBe4](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/knowbe4)
- [DMARC](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/dmarc)
- [Enclave Networks](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/enclave-networks)
- [Cyber Security](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/cyber-security)
- Knowledge Hub
- [Case Studies](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/case-studies)
- [Testimonials](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/success-stories)
- [Blog](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/blog)
- [Podcast](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/podcast)
- [Client Area](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/client-area)
- [Contact us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
- [Home](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/)
- About Us
- [Our Story](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/our-story)
- [Meet the Team](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/meet-the-team)
- [Certifications](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/certifications)
- [Careers](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/careers)
- IT Support Services
- [IT Support Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services)
- [People Centric Support](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/people-centric-support)
- [Enhanced Security Service](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/enhanced-security-service)
- Professional IT Services
- [Professional IT Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services)
- [Microsoft 365](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-365-business-premium)
- [Microsoft Copilot](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-365-copilot)
- [AI Adoption Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/ai-adoption-services)
- [Microsoft Azure](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-azure)
- [MDR](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/mdr-vs-soc-cyber-security-defence)
- [Microsoft Teams Phone](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-teams-phone)
- [KnowBe4](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/knowbe4)
- [DMARC](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/dmarc)
- [Enclave Networks](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/enclave-networks)
- [Cyber Security](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/cyber-security)
- Knowledge Hub
- [Case Studies](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/case-studies)
- [Testimonials](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/success-stories)
- [Blog](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/blog)
- [Podcast](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/podcast)
- [Client Area](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/client-area)
- [Contact us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
[Contact Us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
[Back to main](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/blog)
Cyber Security
# Building Resilience for 2026: Recent Cyber Security Events
Grant McGregor Team
5 December 2025 • 5 min read
As we approach 2026, cyber resilience is becoming increasingly important for SMEs that depend on cloud services, mobile apps and devices used across office and home settings.
We are seeing more and more stories in the tech world that show how quickly things are changing and two recent security events highlighted this clearly. One involved Microsoft Azure, a cloud platform that many SMEs already rely on. The other involved WhatsApp, an app that most of us use every day without a second thought.
Preparing for 2026 means building confidence in the systems, habits and platforms you already use. Most of that starts with small steps.
# Azure blocked the largest DDoS attack ever recorded
Imagine 3.5 million Netflix films streaming at the same time. Now imagine that amount of traffic being pushed toward a single cloud service in Australia.
This is what happened when Azure faced a DDoS attack reaching 15.72 terabits per second, the largest ever recorded. The attack was powered by more than 500,000 compromised smart devices, including everyday gadgets such as cameras, routers and doorbells, as well as other IoT equipment.
Despite the scale of the attack, Azure customers were not impacted. The attack was automatically detected, filtered and deflected.
## What this really means for SMEs
Events like this prove an important points:
- Choosing a resilient platform means you don't need to match the scale of global attacks. The platform does that for you.
- Azure's security infrastructure is designed to handle pressures far beyond anything that most SMEs will ever face.
For business owners, this is an encouraging reminder:
- You benefit from Microsoft's global defences.
- Large-scale attacks are handled in the background.
- Cloud resilience is often stronger than any on-premises setup.
As the number of connected devices increases, so does the potential scale of attacks. But choosing a strong platform means you're not standing in front of that wave alone.
[Learn more about Microsoft Azure.](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-azure)
# The impact of everyday apps on business risk
While Azure was dealing with a massive wave of attack traffic, a very different security issue was unfolding around WhatsApp. Researchers discovered a vulnerability that allowed them to collect publicly visible profile information from 3.5 billion accounts in just two days. No messages were accessed and no private conversations were exposed, but the scale is surprising.
## Why this matters for SMEs
WhatsApp is a personal app, but many teams use it informally for work. This is understandable. It is quick and familiar, but it comes with a few risks:
- Profile photos and statuses can help attackers create believable phishing messages.
- Phone numbers linked to active devices can be targeted for scams.
- Staff may share work-related information in a tool the business does not manage.
- Profiles can unintentionally reveal personal or professional details.
This is also a reminder that staff awareness plays a big part in resilience. Tools like [KnowBe4](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/knowbe4) can help teams recognise suspicious messages and reduce the chances of anyone being caught out by phishing or social engineering attempts.
It is a good moment to review communication practices and update guidance around personal devices, especially if your organisation is working towards [Cyber Essentials certification](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/cyber-security).
# Resilience comes from strong foundations, not firefighting
These two incidents tell a bigger story. Because technology is so connected, issues on large platforms can create knock-on effects for organisations of all sizes.
The good news for SMEs is that building resilience doesn't require an enterprise-level budget or in-depth technical knowledge. You don't need to understand every global incident or predict every threat.
You simply need:
- well-configured systems
- good communication habits
- Regular reviews of your key systems
- secure platforms that provide core protection for you
- a trusted managed service provider who works as an extension of your team
## Most resilience comes from small, consistent actions.
# Practical steps for a more resilient start to 2026
Here are manageable actions that strengthen your organisation's resilience without overwhelming your team:
- Make the most of Azure's protections
Review your configuration to ensure key features are switched on. You don't need deep technical knowledge, we can help.
- Refresh communication guidance
Encourage secure tools for work discussions, especially when information is sensitive.
- Update BYOD expectations
Keep personal devices and workplace information clearly separate.
- Check internet-facing systems
Make sure access points, firewalls and remote tools follow current best practice.
- **Test your backup and restore process**
A successful restore test is one of the strongest indicators of resilience.
- Achieve or renew your Cyber Essentials certification
A simple, structured framework that covers the fundamentals and builds confidence.
# What SMEs should take from this
Recent events don't suggest that technology is getting out of control. If anything, they highlight the opposite:
- Azure is proving its strength under extreme pressure.
- WhatsApp’s flaw reminds us why small security habits matter.
To create an environment where your systems, people and tools support each other, even when something unexpected happens in the wider world, all you need is strong foundations.
## If you’d like support with reviewing your cloud setup, improving cyber resilience, or working towards Cyber Essentials certification, our team is here to help.
[](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/6138324/ee2a578f-e4c7-437c-bcdc-7f04f9d1e161)
Grant McGregor Team
5 December 2025 • 5 min read
## Recent Posts
### Shadow AI: Is Your Business Ready for AI Adoption?
Understand shadow AI's impact on your business. Discover how to assess risks, improve processes, and adopt AI securely w...
[Read More](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/shadow-ai-is-your-business-ready-for-ai-adoption)
### Our Net Zero Target for 2040: What Can We Change?
From company vehicles and travel to suppliers and technology, see how Grant McGregor is working towards its net zero tar...
[Read More](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/our-net-zero-target-for-2040-what-can-we-change)
### What Is Penetration Testing? A Guide for Businesses
Learn what penetration testing is, how it works, what the report should include and when your business should consider a...
[Read More](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/what-is-penetration-testing-a-guide-for-businesses)
### Grant McGregor Recognised as a Leading Global MSP in the 2026 MSP 501
Grant McGregor has been named a Top Global Managed Service Provider in the 2026 MSP 501, ranking #1 Scotland-based MSP a...
[Read More](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/grant-mcgregor-recognised-as-a-leading-global-msp-in-the-2026-msp-501)
Union
## Empower your business with secure, expert-led solutions.
Talk to us about people-focused technology that drives results.
[Start a conversation](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
Premium IT Services Tailored for Leading Brands
[Follow us on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/grant-mcgregor-ltd/) [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.youtube.com/itgrantmcgregor) [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/grantmcgregorltd/) [Follow us on Twitter](https://x.com/GrantMcGregorIT)
Quick Links
- [Home](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk)
- [About us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/our-story)
- [Knowledge Hub](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/blog)
- [Contact us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
Services
- [People Centric Support](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/people-centric-support)
- [Enhanced Security Service](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/enhanced-security-service)
- [Professional IT Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services)
- [Cyber Security](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/cyber-security)
Edinburgh – Chesterfield
[0131 603 7910](tel:+441316037910)
[info@grantmcgregor.co.uk](mailto:info@grantmcgregor.co.uk)
**Main Office:**
The Merchants' Hall,
22 Hanover St,
Edinburgh EH2 2EP
© 2026
Grant McGregor. All rights reserved.
[Privacy and Cookie Policy](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/UsefulDownloads/Policies/GRMC-SEC-Privacy-and-Cookie-Policy.pdf)
```json
{
"@context" : "https://schema.org",
"@type" : "BlogPosting",
"author" : {
"@type" : "Person",
"name" : "Grant McGregor Team",
"url" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/author/grmc-team"
},
"dateModified" : "2025-12-07T22:13:02.541Z",
"datePublished" : "2025-12-05T17:29:36.000Z",
"headline" : "Building Resilience for 2026: Recent Cyber Security Events",
"image" : [ "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/Building-Resilience-for-2026.png" ],
"mainEntityOfPage" : {
"@id" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/building-cyber-resilience-for-2026",
"@type" : "WebPage"
},
"publisher" : {
"@type" : "Organization",
"logo" : {
"@type" : "ImageObject",
"url" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/GRMC_blue_logo.svg"
},
"name" : "Grant McGregor"
}
}
```
```json
{
"@context" : "https://schema.org",
"@id" : "https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/",
"@type" : "LocalBusiness",
"address" : {
"@type" : "PostalAddress",
"addressCountry" : "GB",
"addressLocality" : "Edinburgh",
"postalCode" : "EH2 2EP",
"streetAddress" : "22 Hanover Street"
},
"geo" : {
"@type" : "GeoCoordinates",
"latitude" : 55.9526313,
"longitude" : -3.1970679
},
"image" : "https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/GRMC_blue_logo.svg",
"name" : "Grant McGregor",
"openingHoursSpecification" : {
"@type" : "OpeningHoursSpecification",
"closes" : "18:00",
"dayOfWeek" : [ "Monday", "Tuesday", "Wednesday", "Thursday", "Friday" ],
"opens" : "08:00"
},
"sameAs" : [ "https://www.facebook.com/grantmcgregorltd/", "https://x.com/GrantMcGregorIT", "https://www.youtube.com/itgrantmcgregor", "https://www.linkedin.com/company/grant-mcgregor-ltd/" ],
"telephone" : "+441316037910",
"url" : "https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/"
}
```
```json
{
"@context" : "https://schema.org",
"@type" : "BlogPosting",
"author" : {
"@type" : "Person",
"name" : "Grant McGregor team"
},
"dateModified" : "2025-11-07",
"datePublished" : "2025-11-07",
"headline" : "The Hidden Costs of Poor Network Management",
"image" : {
"@type" : "ImageObject",
"height" : 1400,
"url" : "https://info.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/The Hidden Costs of Poor Network Management.jpg",
"width" : 2400
},
"mainEntityOfPage" : {
"@id" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/the-hidden-costs-of-poor-network-management",
"@type" : "WebPage"
},
"publisher" : {
"@type" : "Organization",
"logo" : {
"@type" : "ImageObject",
"url" : "https://info.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/GM-logo-399.png"
},
"name" : "Grant McGregor"
},
"url" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/the-hidden-costs-of-poor-network-management"
}
```