There’s no escaping it, so much of the world we live in today is digital, and if you are running an aesthetic clinic, you are likely relying on digital systems for almost everything – from online bookings and medical records to payment processing and marketing. But as technology advances, so do cyber threats. From phishing scams to ransomware attacks, data breaches can cause lasting reputational and financial damage.
For this reason, it is important to think of cybersecurity not just as an IT issue but as a patient safety issue and to protect your business from potential threats.
According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025, 72% of organisations saw an increase in cyber risks, and nearly half now see malicious generative AI as a top concern. Closer to home, the UK government’s Cybersecurity Breaches Survey reported that over one-third of UK small businesses experienced a cyber-attack in the last 12 months, with phishing being the most common entry point. In addition, it reports that hacking incidents are occurring at a rate of approximately one per minute in the UK.
From the recent M&S and Co-op data breaches to the Land Rover cyber attack (where no cyber cover was in place), incidents like these highlight how devastating an attack can be – both financially and reputationally.
Many small to medium-sized businesses, including aesthetic clinics, assume that their business is at less risk than bigger enterprises; however, the aesthetics sector has become a prime target for cybercriminals because clinics hold high-value, sensitive data: patient photographs, medical records, payment information and consent forms.
Back in 2020, The Hospital Group hit the headlines after a cybersecurity breach saw hackers threatening to publish patients' before and after photos, among other confidential details.
“Many aesthetic practitioners assume they’re too small to be a target, but hackers don’t discriminate,” says Nicola Bowtell, Healthcare Account Executive at Hamilton Fraser. “If your systems store personal data, you’re vulnerable and without the right protection, a single breach can cost thousands in fines, downtime and reputation loss.”
A very common cybersecurity threat designed to make the recipient click on a link within an email or an attachment or inadvertently download software, allowing the cybercriminal access to the computer or network.
Once the link is clicked, a virus is used by the cyber attackers to infiltrate the system, rendering it unusable.
Phishing emails are used by attackers to obtain personal data from unsuspecting people. This often involves directing the recipient to a dummy site and asking them to submit personal details to proceed.
This is a common cause of identity theft, with personal data such as names and date of birth used to forge documents such as passports or driving licences. In some cases, the data can be used to apply for credit cards, loans and mortgages in the victim’s name. Within the last few years, phishing scams have become significantly more sophisticated, making them more difficult to spot and leaving people open to a serious cyber breach.
Malicious software that holds the victim to ransom until they regain access. This can have wide-scale implications for the victim if they are unable to reinstate their system. The cyber risk posed by ransomware is extremely serious for practitioners who are storing patient records, drug histories and health information. Not only could an attack disrupt operations, but it could also cause severe reputational damage and ultimately even damage to the patient’s health.
Denial of Service attacks find ways of disrupting access to a network. This is commonly achieved by overloading the network with excessive traffic to its website or servers. This can leave a website unusable for a significant amount of time, which can have a direct impact on your business and ability to trade.
Patient details can be exposed through something as simple as weak passwords, unencrypted storage, or outdated software. In aesthetics, that means confidential before-and-after photos, medical histories, and consent forms could fall into the wrong hands. A breach not only triggers potential ICO investigations and GDPR fines but can also erode the trust you’ve built with your patients. Encrypting all stored data, using secure clinic-management software, and limiting staff access to sensitive information are essential first lines of defence.
Your website and social channels are often the first impression patients have of your clinic – making them prime targets for hackers. Compromised accounts can be used to spread spam, misinformation, or even phishing links to your followers, damaging your reputation within hours. Regularly updating passwords, using multi-factor authentication, and making sure that only authorised team members have admin access are simple but effective ways to prevent attacks. Keeping plugins and content-management systems up to date is equally important to close off common security loopholes.
While cyber threats often come from outside, internal mistakes remain one of the most common causes of data loss. Something as innocent as emailing patient information to the wrong address, accessing records on a personal device, or saving data to an unsecured cloud platform can lead to a breach. Staff training is critical, and everyone in the clinic should understand how to handle data safely and what to do if something goes wrong. Establishing clear policies for device use, file sharing, and data storage helps prevent accidental exposure before it happens.
It’s easy to assume cyber crime only happens to big corporations or tech firms, but the reality is, every business with a digital presence is at risk, including aesthetic clinics.
To help cut through the confusion, we’ve debunked seven common myths about cyber attacks and how to protect yourself.
Truth: Smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices are just as vulnerable. Modern clinics often rely on mobile devices for patient communication, photography, and social media. In recent years, malicious software – or malware – targeting mobile phones has surged, with ransomware and Trojan viruses now appearing on both Android and Apple systems.
Tip: Keep all devices updated, install security apps, and avoid downloading unverified software.
Truth: Facebook, Instagram and other social platforms are prime targets for scammers. Fake giveaways, phishing links, or cloned clinic profiles are increasingly used to trick followers into sharing personal information.
Tip: Enable two-factor authentication, limit admin access, and regularly review account permissions.
Truth: Even small clinics hold valuable data – from client photos and consent forms to payment details and supplier information. Cyber criminals can exploit this for identity theft or ransom demands. Storing data in the cloud doesn’t automatically make it safe; you still need robust passwords and encryption.
Tip: Review who has access to your systems, encrypt sensitive files, and back up your data securely.
Truth: While Apple systems were once less targeted, that’s no longer the case. Hackers now create ransomware and phishing scams that affect Macs, iPhones and iPads alike. The perception of safety can make users less vigilant – precisely what attackers rely on.
Tip: Install updates promptly and use anti-virus protection across all devices.
Truth: Many cyber attacks now happen through legitimate websites that have been compromised. Even a trusted supplier’s site could be infected with malicious code. Browser plugins and pop-up ads can also expose you to risk.
Tip: Keep browsers and plugins updated, avoid clicking on unexpected pop-ups, and use web filtering tools.
Truth: Many cyber attacks go unnoticed for weeks or even months. Hackers often prefer to stay hidden, quietly harvesting information or monitoring communications before striking.
Tip: Set up alerts for suspicious activity and schedule regular security audits.
Truth: In fact, previous victims are more likely to be targeted again. Cyber attackers often sell stolen data or return to exploit unpatched vulnerabilities. Spear-phishing campaigns that target the same business multiple times are increasingly common.
Tip: After any incident, review what went wrong and strengthen your defences. Update passwords, educate staff, and consider investing in cyber liability insurance for added protection.
You can read more in our article on Busting common cybersecurity myths.
Businesses are now taking cyber risks more seriously, with recent Government statistics showing improvement in several cyber hygiene practices, including increased uptake of cyber security risk assessments (48%, an increase from 41% in 2024), cyber insurance (62% up from 49% in 2024) and formal cyber security policies covering cyber security risks (59% up from 51% in 2024).
Hamilton Fraser partners with CFC, a leading specialist in cyber insurance, to offer comprehensive protection designed specifically for small businesses and aesthetic clinics. CFC’s cyber cover goes far beyond financial indemnity – it provides proactive tools and expert support to help prevent, detect, and respond to threats before they cause damage.
If an incident occurs, you’ll have expert help at your fingertips:
This can protect you against loss of vital business services. For example, you could suffer a ransomware attack if an employee clicks on a fraudulent invoice link. This could leave you unable to access its booking system or email for days. Having cyber liability insurance could help cover response costs, including IT forensics, data restoration and patient notification.
“Even the most secure systems can be breached,” explains Eddie Hooker, CEO of Hamilton Fraser. “Cyber insurance offers a vital safety net. It gives business owners peace of mind that if the worst happens, they’re not facing it alone.”
Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by using strong, unique passwords, keeping all systems updated, and making sure staff are trained to spot suspicious emails. And if the worst does happen, CFC’s cyber liability insurance can help cover the cost of recovery, legal support and reputation management.
For more on keeping patient data safe, read our guide on Confidentiality and Data Protection.
Aesthetic practitioners already understand the importance of professional indemnity and public liability cover, but as the sector becomes more digital, cyber insurance is now an essential part of comprehensive protection.
To find out more or obtain a quote, download our CFC Cyber Proposal Form and get started today.
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