Upgrading to the latest Microsoft 365 plan can significantly enhance your email security, but whether it's worth it depends on your business's specific needs and risks. Microsoft regularly updates its plans to include stronger protection against phishing, malware, and data leaks, which are common threats targeting UK SMEs. These improvements help reduce the risk of costly downtime, data breaches, and damage to your reputation.
Why this matters for UK SMEs
For small and medium-sized businesses in the UK, email is often the primary channel for communication with customers, suppliers, and staff. A compromised email account can lead to stolen sensitive data, fraud, and interruptions to daily operations. Additionally, UK regulations such as the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR require you to take reasonable steps to protect personal data, and poor email security can put you at risk of non-compliance and ICO fines.
Upgrading to a higher Microsoft 365 plan often unlocks advanced security features like Microsoft Defender for Office 365, which provides real-time threat detection and automated response to suspicious emails. It also supports multi-factor authentication (MFA), encryption, and detailed audit logs—tools that help meet Cyber Essentials and ISO 27001 standards commonly expected in supplier assessments and tenders.
A practical example
Consider a UK-based consultancy with around 50 employees using a basic Microsoft 365 Business plan. They experienced a phishing attack where a staff member clicked a malicious link, leading to compromised credentials and unauthorised access to client data. After upgrading to Microsoft 365 Business Premium and working with their IT partner, they implemented Defender for Office 365, enforced MFA, and set up automated alerts for suspicious activity. This reduced their risk of future attacks and improved their compliance posture, reassuring clients and auditors.
Checklist: What to consider before upgrading
- Assess your current email security: Review your existing Microsoft 365 plan and identify which security features you lack, such as advanced threat protection or data loss prevention.
- Ask your IT provider: What additional security benefits does the upgraded plan offer? Can they help configure and manage these features effectively?
- Check your compliance needs: Do you need to meet Cyber Essentials, ISO 27001, or PCI DSS? Ensure the plan supports controls relevant to these standards.
- Review user access and MFA: Confirm that MFA is enabled for all users and that access rights are regularly reviewed.
- Backup and recovery: Verify that your email data is backed up securely and that you have tested recovery procedures.
- Training and awareness: Consider whether your staff receive regular phishing and cybersecurity training as part of your IT support.
Next steps
Deciding to upgrade your Microsoft 365 plan for better email security should be part of a broader review of your IT and cybersecurity strategy. Speak with a trusted managed IT provider or IT advisor who understands the specific risks faced by UK SMEs. They can help you evaluate your current setup, recommend the right Microsoft 365 plan, and assist with configuration and ongoing management to protect your business effectively.