Dr Harjinder Singh Lallie on Password Protections Against Cyber Attacks

Commenting on the password hack at KNP, Dr Harjinder Singh Lallie, Reader in Cyber Security, University of Warwick, said:

“The recent closure of Northamptonshire-based logistics firm KNP, following a ransomware attack that reportedly began with a guessed employee password, serves as a stark illustration of the risks facing organisations that lack basic cyber security controls. The loss of such a long-standing business and 700 associated jobs is a sobering reminder of what’s at stake.

“While no system can be completely immune to attack, fundamental measures such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), strong password policies, and regular cyber hygiene practices can provide a significant layer of protection—often at minimal cost.

“Small and medium-sized enterprises, in particular, face growing challenges in this space. Competing priorities and limited resources can sometimes lead to gaps in cyber preparedness. However, basic digital safeguards should now be considered as essential as physical locks on doors. They not only protect critical data but also support business continuity and stakeholder trust.

“The incident involving KNP should prompt organisations of all sizes to revisit their cyber risk strategies. A proactive, preventative approach can make a real difference in reducing exposure to these increasingly common threats.”