In today’s interconnected digital world, cybersecurity threats are often associated with advanced techniques, sophisticated malware and state-sponsored actors. But sometimes the simplest oversight can lead to catastrophic consequences. A recent BBC article tells the story of a 158-year-old UK transport and freight company that collapsed after a ransomware attack, all because of a weak password.

It is a sobering example of how fundamental security failures can undo even the most established organisations.

The story in brief

The company, a trusted name in its industry for over a century and a half, became the latest victim of cybercrime when attackers gained access to its systems using credentials protected by a weak password. Once inside, the hackers deployed ransomware that encrypted key systems and data, paralysing the entire organisation. The company could not recover and had no choice but to cease operations completely.

This was not the result of an advanced persistent threat or a sophisticated zero-day exploit. Instead, it was an avoidable error: poor password hygiene.

Why this matters for every organisation

At TNP, we regularly speak with organisations striving to modernise, improve citizen outcomes and meet the demands of users and regulators alike. But this incident highlights a stark reality: cybersecurity starts with the basics.

Weak credentials remain one of the most common entry points for attackers. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) regularly reminds organisations that password reuse and weak passwords continue to put businesses, public sector bodies and charities at unnecessary risk.

A single compromised password can enable attackers to bypass all other security investments, placing sensitive data, reputation and operational continuity at risk.

What organisations should do now

This example is a call to action for all organisations, regardless of sector or size. To protect systems and services effectively, organisations should:

• Enforce strong password policies: Require unique, complex passwords that are changed regularly and avoid reuse across systems.
• Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Reduce reliance on passwords alone by requiring a second factor such as a token or mobile authentication app.
• Provide regular staff training: Educate employees on the importance of password hygiene and recognising phishing attempts, which are a common way credentials are stolen.
• Conduct regular audits: Identify weak passwords, dormant accounts and other vulnerabilities.
• Have an incident response plan: Ensure there is a clear and tested plan in place if an attack occurs so recovery can be swift and effective.
• Adopt passwordless technologies where possible: The best practice is to reduce or eliminate reliance on passwords altogether by utilising modern, passwordless authentication solutions.

The wider business impact

Beyond the immediate financial loss, a ransomware attack can have devastating long-term consequences: permanent data loss, regulatory penalties, reputational damage and the potential collapse of the organisation, as seen in this tragic case.

For organisations delivering public services, the impact can also include disruption to critical citizen services, reduced public trust and harm to vulnerable communities who depend on those services.

TNP’s approach to helping organisations stay secure

At TNP, we work closely with our clients to ensure cybersecurity is embedded across every layer of their IT estate. Our services are designed to protect not just infrastructure but the people and processes that depend on it.

We help organisations:

• Design and implement secure connectivity solutions.
• Build robust identity and access management frameworks.
• Integrate password policies with MFA and endpoint protection.
• Guide clients on a journey towards passwordless authentication.
• Audit existing environments to identify gaps before attackers do.
• Provide ongoing security awareness training for staff.

We understand the pressures that many organisations face: limited budgets, complex legacy systems and increasing demands from users and regulators. But this example shows that focusing on simple, effective controls like password management — or better still, moving towards a passwordless future — can make the difference between business continuity and collapse.

Are your defences fit for purpose?

It is worth asking: when was the last time your organisation reviewed its password policy? Do all your critical systems have MFA in place? Are you exploring passwordless authentication as a long-term strategy? Have you audited user accounts for weak or reused passwords? Do your people understand their role in keeping systems secure?

These questions matter because cybersecurity is not just about technology. It is about people, culture and discipline.

TNP is ready to help you answer these questions and put the right protections in place.

Talk to us

If your organisation is unsure whether it has the basics right or needs support strengthening its defences, we are here to help.

Contact us today to discuss how we can help you mitigate risks, improve resilience and protect your organisation from the simplest but most damaging attacks.

TNP: Delivering secure, reliable connectivity and cybersecurity for organisations that cannot afford to fail.