A new free cyber security helpline has been launched by a firm that creates software for Financial Planners.

Intelliflo has teamed up with its cyber security partner, NCC Group, to offer the service to the 16,700 users of Intelligent Office (iO).

The companies have brought forward the launch of a free cyber security helpline, following the recent ransomware attacks that have targeted businesses around the world.

Originally planned to rollout in June, the cyber security helpline is manned by Intelliflo’s in-house security consultants, who have been specially trained by cyber security experts at NCC.

If necessary, the team will also involve NCC Group when managing incidents, as well as helping with clean-up and remediation, Intelliflo said.

Rob Walton, chief operating officer at Intelliflo, said: “Recent research we carried out highlights that some advisers are vulnerable to cyber attacks, particularly if they are using an unsupported browser.

“Providing the free helpline means all users of iO will have access to immediate assistance should they believe their cyber security has been compromised.”

Ben Jepson, director for risk management and governance at NCC Group, said: “Cyber crime is now the biggest threat that businesses face. The impact of an attack or data breach is well documented and when something like this happens, a fast response is essential.

“Thanks to this free helpline, Intelliflo’s customers can rest assured knowing that help is on hand if an incident occurs.”

Intelliflo is providing a free interactive cyber security eLearning course for iO clients and it has published a paper entitled Mitigating Cyber Risk in the Financial Sector, which is free to download through its website.

The helpline number is 0330 102 8400.