Valkyrie (GB) Limited

At Valkyrie (GB) Limited, we often handle complex cyber incidents. Our clients work across various industries and have different levels of cybersecurity knowledge, so we strongly believe in the power of clear communication. Using simple, direct language ensures that everyone understands what’s happened and the steps needed. To demonstrate this, here’s how the same incident can be explained in two different ways—one full of technical jargon, the other designed for a broader audience. This highlights the importance of clarity in cybersecurity. A technical expert might describe the incident like this: “We identified an APT group using C2 infrastructure and DNS tunnelling to steal PII, bypassing IDS/IPS with obfuscated payloads. They launched a multi-vector attack, leveraging spear-phishing with malicious macros to gain persistence via a reverse shell and escalate privileges with pass-the-hash. Lateral movement exploited SMB vulnerabilities, culminating in a DDoS on critical servers. After reviewing SIEM logs, we detected polymorphic malware, showing advanced evasion. The SOC deployed EDR to isolate endpoints, and forensics traced the IOCs to a zero-day exploit." This language is clear for a cybersecurity professional, but it can overwhelm someone without that background. Here’s a simpler explanation for a non-technical audience: “Attackers sent fake emails to trick employees into clicking malicious links, giving them access to the company’s network. They moved through weak points, disrupting systems, slowing down servers, and targeting critical infrastructure. Our team tracked their activities and used advanced tools to contain the threat. Although they used sophisticated, hard-to-detect malware, we identified and resolved the issue, tracing it to a previously unknown vulnerability.” Both versions tell the same story yet they target different audiences. At Valkyrie, we know that cybersecurity doesn’t have to be a maze of complex terms. Over the years, we’ve learned that clarity is key. Whether speaking to senior leadership or a technical team, the message must be clear and understood by everyone. This ensures everyone works together and understands the outcomes, helping to build resilience against future threats. Simplicity is often the most effective approach, especially in urgent situations. Tailoring communication to the audience’s needs ensures the message is clear and actionable which helps prevent information overload, keeping people focused on what matters. Ultimately, professionals act as translators in fields like cybersecurity—taking the complex and making it accessible without losing crucial details. Bridging this gap ensures even the most technical incidents are communicated in a way that everyone understands. Key takeaway: Simplifying cybersecurity allows businesses to focus on what they do best. Don’t let confusing language weaken your security. Gurpreet Thathy, Matthew Newton, Floyd Woodrow, Forensic Control #CyberSecurity

Valkyrie (GB) Limited were delighted to be invited to the Tatler Address Book party at Home House on Wednesday.    Beyond the pleasure of attending such exclusive and enjoyable events, being part of the Tatler Address Book offers a range of benefits for Valkyrie:   - It provides the opportunity to network and connect with like-minded professionals, engaging with a vibrant and dynamic community. - Fosters connections with forward-thinking professionals, which helps drive innovation and cutting-edge solutions. - Allows for knowledge sharing across disciplines, which promotes awareness of emerging trends and threats. - Expands our network of specialists, giving us access to a diverse pool of expertise to better serve our clients. - Elevates our brand's presence within a prestigious network, fostering new relationships and expanding our reach.   Gurpreet Thathy, Matthew Newton, David Webb, Floyd Woodrow, Jonathan Krause, Camilla Longman #TatlerAddressBook #Networking #CondeNast #Security #CyberSecurity #Collaboration #Event #London #Valkyrie

Effective Training and Learning At Valkyrie (GB) Limited, training and development are at the core of our services. This year, we've expanded our training offerings to include a wide range of courses and programmes—from essential security skills to advanced training requiring specialist knowledge. As demand for high-quality, engaging training grows, we remain committed to delivering exceptional learning experiences that make a real difference and reflect the evolving threat landscape. Our success in this area is driven by several key principles: - Meticulous Planning and Rehearsal: Effective training begins with thorough preparation. At Valkyrie, we meticulously plan and rehearse each session to ensure a polished, engaging delivery. This approach minimises errors and maximises impact, setting the stage for successful learning outcomes. - Understanding Your Audience: Tailoring training to the specific needs of each group is crucial. We invest time in understanding our audience—whether it’s a small team or a large organisation—to customise content, delivery style, and pace. This ensures every session is relevant, engaging, and impactful. - Balancing Theory with Practice: We believe training should be dynamic. By blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice, we help participants grasp concepts and apply them in real-world situations, building both competence and confidence. - Making Learning Enjoyable: Learning is most effective when it’s engaging and fun. Our training incorporates interactive activities, group discussions, and creative problem-solving exercises to keep participants engaged and make key concepts memorable. - Leveraging Expert Knowledge: We incorporate our knowledge of the latest trends/threats into our sessions. When specialised knowledge is needed, we bring in subject matter experts to deliver content with depth and authority, ensuring participants receive the most current and comprehensive training available. - Embracing Feedback for Continuous Improvement: We actively seek feedback from participants and use it to refine our programmes. This commitment to continuous improvement ensures our training remains effective and relevant. Valkyrie is dedicated to providing tailored training solutions that meet the diverse needs of our clients, from individuals to large teams. Our approach ensures that training is relevant, practical, and engaging. Reach out to us today for an honest assessment and to explore how our training can support your team's development. Gurpreet Thathy, Floyd Woodrow, Matthew Newton, Jonathan Krause   #Training #Security #TrainingAndDevelopment #SecurityTraining #Learning #SkillsTraining #Valkyrie

Protect Your Privacy: The Rise of Illegal Drone Use   Drones are becoming increasingly common across the UK, with recreational use inevitably giving rise to misuse. These small, often silent devices are being exploited by criminals to survey properties, identify vulnerabilities, and even gather sensitive information. As drones become more accessible, the threat to your privacy and security grows.   At Valkyrie (GB) Limited, we’re seeing more clients concerned about drone surveillance around their homes and businesses. From monitoring your property unnoticed to potentially mapping out weaknesses, the risks are real. But with vigilance and the right precautions, you can protect yourself.   Read our full article to understand the threats and how to safeguard your privacy against illegal drone activity. Stay informed, stay secure.   Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/eiDdNfsS   #PrivacyProtection #HomeSecurity #DroneSurveillance #CyberSecurity #TechAwareness #Vigilance #Security #DroneTechnology #CrimePrevention #Valkyrie #Drones   Floyd Woodrow, David Webb, Gurpreet Thathy, Matthew Newton, Jonathan Krause

Now that the summer school holidays are in full swing, it's time to focus on more than just sunscreen and travel plans—your family's online safety should also be a priority. As children dive into gaming, social media, and endless online activities, the risk of cyber-attacks and online criminal activity significantly increases. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are aware that during this time, parental supervision can lapse, making young ones prime targets for phishing scams, malware, extortion and other online threats.   In the latest edition of Mayfair Life (Education section, pages 264-265), Valkyrie (GB) Limited delves into this growing concern in an insightful article titled "Cyber Attacks during School Holidays - a Growing Concern." The piece highlights how shared household devices, often overlooked when it comes to security updates, can become gateways for cyber threats. From phishing emails designed to steal personal information to malware that can wreak havoc on your devices, the risks are real and growing.   The article also provides practical advice on how to protect your family. It stresses the importance of educating children about the dangers of online interactions, enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA), and keeping all software up to date. Simple actions like monitoring your children's online activities and discussing potential cyber threats can make a huge difference in keeping your household safe.   As you enjoy the holiday season, take a moment to read this essential guide and ensure that your family's digital life is as secure as their summer adventures. Keep the safety and security message simple but constant, so it remains in your children's forethoughts. Remember, not dropping your guard is crucial—cybercriminals will seize every opportunity to exploit vulnerabilities. Stay informed, stay protected, and make the most of this precious time without the worry of cyber threats.   Matthew Newton, Gurpreet Thathy, Floyd Woodrow, David Webb, Jonathan Krause, Fish Media Group Ltd   #CyberThreats #CyberSecurity #OnlineSafety #CyberAwareness #Valkyrie #DeviceSecurity #CyberAwareness #TravelSecurity #Security #Holidays  https://lnkd.in/ejPmT4_T

Navigating digital security for modern travellers Whether for business or pleasure, many travellers often take their security for granted, especially when visiting 'Western' countries. However, even routine trips to perceived 'safe' destinations can be fraught with unexpected dangers. Travellers are exposed to unfamiliar environments with potential threats such as political unrest, crime, health concerns, and environmental incidents. For business travellers, personal risks may also jeopardise corporate reputation. Therefore, proper planning and preparation are essential for travel safety. In the latest issue of Security Journal UK (SJUK) (pages 34-36), Matthew Newton, Director of Crisis Response at Valkyrie (GB) Limited, explores some of the evolving threats impacting travellers, including virtual kidnappings, cybersecurity threats, and the increased use of eavesdropping devices for corporate espionage and extortion. By understanding the existence and deployment methods of these threats, travellers can protect themselves more effectively, while the article also considers strategies to mitigate these dangers. Key takeaways include: -Remaining vigilant and defensive against potential threats at all times, never dropping your guard, and maintaining close personal control of your devices and connections. -Creating a comprehensive security checklist before travel, which involves locking down social media profiles, updating device software, and establishing communication protocols with family and colleagues. -Regularly monitoring government and other trusted travel advisories for the latest information and utilising advanced travel security apps for real-time alerts on digital threats and safety updates. -Being vigilant and inspecting your accommodation for suspicious devices. -Using clean devices and VPNs to ensure the security of your data during transmission, and avoiding public Wi-Fi networks. -Avoiding public USB charging ports, that can potentially harbour malware. In conclusion, modern travel, even to seemingly safe destinations, carries various risks that necessitate careful preparation and awareness. By following essential safety measures such as securing social media, updating device software, staying informed via travel advisories, and using VPNs travellers can protect themselves and their corporate interests, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable travel experience. https://lnkd.in/eXBqxfCF   David Webb, Gurpreet Thathy, Floyd Woodrow   #TravelSafety #DigitalSecurity #CyberSecurity #BusinessTravel #TravelTips #SecureTravel #Valkyrie #Security

Quantum Computing and Encryption   Gurpreet Thathy, Valkyrie (GB) Limited's Director of Cyber Security and Electronic Countermeasures, was featured in Paul Cochrane's latest article for Fraud Intelligence - Break Point – Encryption Post Quantum. In this article, Paul and the experts discuss the critical impact of quantum computing on encryption, which could potentially render existing methods of security, obsolete.    Gurpreet Thathy highlights the urgent need for quantum-safe encryption methods to future proof our security: "The arrival of quantum computing isn't a future scenario - it's happening now. We must prepare for a world where traditional encryption is obsolete. The need for quantum-resistant algorithms is more urgent than ever."   Key Points:   -Exponential Computing Power: Quantum computers can solve complex problems at speeds unimaginable with classical computers, rendering current encryption methods vulnerable. -Potential for Misuse: If quantum computing technology is exploited by malicious actors, the implications for data security and fraud prevention could be dire. -Immediate Action Required: Gurpreet Thathy stresses the necessity for organisations to transition to quantum-safe encryption to protect sensitive information in this new era.   What is Quantum Computing? It is a new type of computing that uses the unique properties of tiny particles to solve very complex problems quickly. While regular computers use bits (tiny switches that can be either on or off) to perform calculations, quantum computers use qubits, which can be both on and off at the same time. This allows quantum computers to explore many solutions simultaneously. Additionally, qubits can be linked together in a special way, enabling them to work together more efficiently. These features allow quantum computers to handle much more complex tasks than regular computers.    For further insights into the next digital arms race and discover strategies to protect against emerging threats. Read the full Fraud Intelligence article here: https://lnkd.in/eGfF9cEE, or reach out to the Valkyrie team on: security@valkyrie.co.uk   Floyd Woodrow, Matthew Newton, David Webb, Jonathan Krause, Roger Grimes, Javvad Malik   #CyberSecurity #QuantumComputing #Encryption #FraudPrevention #DigitalSecurity #DataSecurity #CyberCrime #Security #Valkyrie #Fraudintelligence

Action Needed to Combat Online Exploitation The rise in online child grooming crimes has reached a record high, signalling an urgent need for action to protect children online. Gurpreet Thathy, Valkyrie (GB) Limited's Director of Cyber and Electronic Countermeasures, has been at the forefront of this fight since 2008, including involvement in Operation Notarise in 2014. The issue, already significant then, has continued to escalate. A recent study by the Global Child Safety Institute reveals that 1 in 8 children worldwide - over 300 million - are victims of online sexual exploitation. The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) reports that children aged 11 to 13, mostly girls, are the most exploited group for inappropriate image sharing. Last year, the IWF found 275,000 web pages with child abuse material, with 92% featuring self-generated content. Young children, aged 7 to 10, are increasingly depicted in these images, often manipulated into believing it is part of a game. In response, the UK government has proposed the Online Safety Bill to hold social media companies accountable. However, experts argue that the bill needs enhanced protections and stricter enforcement. The IWF calls for stricter age verification and additional safety features in end-to-end encrypted messaging apps to prevent the distribution of child sexual abuse material. At Valkyrie, we support measures to reduce online exploitation. We collaborate with stakeholders to promote stronger protection policies and enhance online safety.   Advice: -Educate & Communicate: Talk regularly with children about online dangers and the importance of not sharing personal information or images. -Parental Controls: Set and update controls on devices and social media platforms to limit access to inappropriate content and monitor online activities. -Encourage Reporting: Teach children to report any suspicious online interactions to a trusted adult immediately and use resources like the IWF's public reporting page. Addressing this issue requires coordinated efforts from governments, tech companies, and the public. Implementing robust age verification, enhancing safety features on social media platforms, and raising awareness are critical steps towards mitigating this hidden pandemic. To read the full article, please visit our website: https://lnkd.in/eeV7G3m2 Floyd Woodrow, David Webb, Matthew Newton, Jonathan Krause #OnlineSafety #OnlineExploitation #CyberSecurity #DigitalSecurity #Valkyrie

Quantum Group, the Parent Company of Valkyrie (GB) Limited, is thrilled to announce the acquisition of Forensic Control.   Forensic Control, a leading specialist in cyber security and digital forensics, is renowned for making the complex world of cyber security clear and manageable. This strategic acquisition not only strengthens our existing service portfolio but also expands our capabilities in delivering top-tier cyber security solutions to our clients. Businesses trust their expertise and guidance in protecting their sensitive information.   Forensic Control provides a wide range of services, including Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation, comprehensive security assessments, forensic investigations for cyber-attacks and disputes, legal discovery data collection, expert cyber security consultancy, and accredited penetration testing. Their automated scans pinpoint vulnerabilities in software and operating systems, ensuring strong protection across all digital platforms.   We are excited to welcome Jonathan Krause and the Forensic Control team to Valkyrie. This acquisition enhances our ability to deliver exceptional cyber security services. We look forward to leveraging Forensic Control’s expertise to provide even greater value to our clients and fortify their digital defences against evolving cyber threats.   For more information about Forensic Control our expanded service offerings, please visit our website forensiccontrol.com or contact us directly.   David Webb, Gurpreet Thathy, Matthew Newton, Floyd Woodrow   #CyberSecurity #DigitalForensics #QuantumGroup #ForensicControl #Valkyrie #CyberEssentials #DataProtection #Acquisition #Security #QuantumGroup

VALKYRIE (GB) LIMITED's Director of Cyber Security and Electronic Countermeasures, Gurpreet Thathy, has been engaged in a variety of tasks over the past few weeks. These include training sessions in Scotland, cyber assessments in Devon, and TSCM and forensic work in London and Birmingham. However, yesterday, Gurpreet joined our esteemed colleague, Neal Gozzett of Monan Gozzett LLP - Commercial, Dispute Resolution, Crime, Family & False Allegation Solicitors, for a day of networking aboard the 'Seafin.' Courtesy of John Morgan Partnership Ltd, Cheltenham - Private Clients & Commercial Insurance Broker, the event began at Port Hamble and sailed down Southampton Water towards Cowes. They traced the coast of the Isle of Wight and continued onto the Beaulieu River; a nature reserve owned by Earl Montagu of Beaulieu. They made a stop at the historic village of Buckler’s Hard, famous for building Men 'o' War ships for Nelson and visited the Master Builder’s House Hotel. It was a fantastic day including the weather, providing an excellent opportunity to catch up with Neal and discuss our collaboration and the 'Total Protection' (https://lnkd.in/enRm8dNy) concept. This joint venture between Valkyrie and Monan Gozzett LLP leverages their combined expertise in legal and security/cyber domains to offer enhanced services to clients. Expanding services and having trusted associates like Monan Gozzett LLP is crucial for delivering comprehensive and robust solutions. As complex criminal activity and tactics, particularly in the cyber domain, continue to increase, the integration of legal and security expertise will be more critical than ever in addressing these challenges effectively. And, of course, a big thank you to Samantha Drake for her hospitality and for helping organise a fantastic event. On to the next one! Matthew Newton, David Webb, Floyd Woodrow #Security #CyberSecurity #NetworkingEvent #LegalExpertise #CyberProtection #TotalProtection #SecuritySolutions #ProfessionalNetworking #Valkyrie #MonanGozzett