HSB unveils cyber insurance solution for micro and small businesses in UK and Ireland

Specialist engineering and technology insurer HSB has launched HSB CyberPro, a cyber insurance and incident response product for micro and small businesses in the UK and Ireland. 

The launch comes as cyber risks continue to climb the list of operational threats facing smaller firms. HSB CyberPro offers protection against data breaches, ransomware and IT system vulnerabilities, while providing incident response support through a dedicated helpline. 

When an incident occurs, policyholders gain immediate access to cybersecurity specialists who assist with containment, investigation and recovery efforts, the company said.

SMEs still lagging on cyber preparedness

Despite growing awareness of cyber risks, many small firms remain ill-prepared to respond when attacks occur.

In a recent HSB survey of 600 UK SMEs, 55% said they expect to experience a cyberattack within the next 12 months, and 84% believe such an event would disrupt operations or result in revenue loss. 

Yet, only 31% of micro businesses have a formal incident response plan, and fewer than half (46%) have conducted staff cybersecurity training in the past year. The findings highlight a persistent gap between perceived risk and practical preparedness among small enterprises — a gap HSB hopes to close with its new offering.

Meeting a growing need

According to Mat Prentice (pictured above), cyber product leader at HSB UK & Ireland, smaller organisations often lack the resources and technical capability to manage cyber incidents effectively. He said HSB CyberPro was developed to address this vulnerability by pairing financial cover with immediate expert intervention, helping businesses limit losses and resume operations faster after an attack.

The introduction of HSB CyberPro is expected to strengthen competition in the fast-growing SME insurance segment, where demand continues to outpace penetration. The product’s focus on micro and small enterprises could encourage more insurers and brokers to refine their offerings in the space.

The launch also underscores a broader market shift toward integrated cyber resilience services, combining insurance protection with proactive risk management and technical support. As cyber incidents grow more frequent and sophisticated, accessible coverage options, such as HSB CyberPro, may help improve resilience across smaller businesses. 

The company said HSB CyberPro is now available for brokers to e-trade via Acturis open market and HSB Fast Track, supported by the insurer’s team of technical underwriters.