Cybercrime continues to be a problem for all businesses in the UK, including housing providers. According to Housing Technology, the estimated cost of cybercrime across the UK is £27bn each year.

The housing sector has not been exempt from the rise in cyber-attacks, particularly due to the pandemic when rapid digitalisation of services, and the introduction of home working has increased opportunities for malicious actors to infiltrate. As cyber threats grow in volume and sophistication, and technology becomes essential, your cybersecurity must build resilience and trust.

We recognise the importance of managing cyber risk and will be making the following security updates to our Lifespan Software from 20th April 2023:

Password Policy Updates:

Our Password policy will be changing to the following:

· We will require all customers to update their passwords to one that meets our minimum requirements.

· We will be linking your account together so that you can use a single password to access all your Lifespan software products. This will also come with a new multi- factor authentication process.

What is multi-factor authentication?

Multi-factor authentication is a process that requires the user to enter more than one piece of information to access their account. For example, in addition to entering a password you may also be asked to enter a code that has been sent to your mobile device or email account.

What do I need to do to set this up?

The multi-factor authentication process will involve users logging in with their current username and password and carrying out the second authentication steps. Please contact us if you need any support with this.

Further security updates:

· We are shortening the auto logout time to 40 minutes.

· Accounts that are inactive for more than 30 days will automatically be locked and you will need to contact the help-desk or your system administrator to unlock these.

These updates are made with the security of your data in mind, and we appreciate your cooperation. Our specialist team are always on hand to discuss any suggestions, concerns, or questions you may have. For more information, please get in touch - contact us