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Dark web experts set up headquarters at the Exeter Science Park Centre

By May 20, 2016January 26th, 2021Member News & Updates

Cyber and Information Security specialist, Dynamiq, has opened its headquarters at the Exeter Science Park Centre as it continues to grow, supporting more businesses in the battle against cyber threats and the dark web.

Originally founded in 2009 by Managing Director Rob Cao, Dynamiq has grown rapidly since its creation. In 2013, Rob joined forces with Technical Director Peter Jones, with IT Development Manager Darren Cleary recently joining the team alongside a number of expert professionals.

The move to the Science Park comes as the firm shifts from remote working to a permanent office space to continue building the company and expanding the portfolio of services on offer. Their arrival could not have been more timely, following the Government’s recent announcement of a £250,000 Cyber Security Early Stage Accelerator Programme.

Peter explains: “Over the past year or so, due to a number of high profile global events and UK Government initiatives, the level of exposure afforded to cyber and information security has increased massively. As a result, our work in this field has really started to rocket. We have all been working remotely for the past few years but it became clear that a fixed office would further support our continued growth and allow us to begin developing our own IP and software.

He continued: “When we started looking for options, we came across the Science Park Centre and after the first visit, our minds were made up and there was no other place we wanted to be. Exeter is held in such high regard and there is huge prestige behind the address, we instantly knew it was the right place to be. We have clients all over the UK, so having easy access to the M5 and the airport is hugely valuable. It’s also a great environment to bring our clients into and we are already working with some of the other companies based here at the Centre.”

Dynamiq are co-founders of the South West Cyber Security Cluster, a collaboration of organisations and stakeholders actively engaged in cyber and digital security in the South West of England. The list of members includes academia, the police, businesses and enterprises from across the region, all working together to help reduce the risks of over exposure, vulnerability and cybercrime and protect firms from being at risk.

The team of experts also offer free advice and group seminars to small businesses and organisations, helping people understand the risks of not having a virtual security system in place.

Peter, whose background is in digital forensics, believes that cybercrime is fast becoming the biggest threat to all businesses and their stakeholders. Having worked on digital forensic investigations for the likes of the Met Police, Peter has seen firsthand what happens to businesses without the correct protective and preventative mechanisms in place.

Peter said: “I have seen the damage a cyber-attack or malware virus can do to a business. Essentially, it can close a business down in a matter of weeks. I have also witnessed how criminals behave and from this experience I’ve learnt that the best way that businesses and organisations can protect themselves and their data is by being proactive in safeguarding their systems, their people and their customers.”

Rob explained: “Cyber and information security are becoming ever more focal to all businesses regardless of size or sector. In America, IT and cyber security is recognised as the second highest threat to society and the economy at large. We are catching up in the UK but IT and tech industries are often still viewed as overly complex and inaccessible to most businesses. As such their clients and their stakeholders are left at great risk.

He continued: “Our priority is to develop greater awareness, better understanding and accessibility for all people and all businesses so that they can better safeguard their staff, customers and communities. Once we’re settled in, we will be developing our own systems and software based on the research we have done and the terrific relationships we have built at the Science Park and further afield. What better place to be than the Science Park Centre surrounded by likeminded, creative and innovative businesses.”

Director of the Science Park Centre, Dr Robin Jackson said: “The work that Dynamiq are doing to create a resilient digital environment is vital. We regularly hear of cases of data hacking and situations which leave the general public at risk and cyber security is essential in safeguarding the public and supporting economic prosperity. Companies like Dynamiq are leading the way in the south west and their expertise in this field is extensive. Their presence here at the Exeter Science Park Centre will no doubt have a positive impact on all of our tenants and further afield.”

The building of the Science Park Centre has been made possible with shareholder equity from Devon County Council, East Devon District Council, Exeter City Council, the University of Exeter; the Heart of the South West LEP which committed £4.5m loan from the Growing Places Fund; and a £1 million grant from the Regional Growth Fund.

For more information about the Exeter Science Park Centre visit www.exetersciencepark.co.uk, call 01392 722 226 or follow the Exeter Science Park on Twitter @ExeterSciencePk.

To find out more about Dynamiq visit www.dynamiq.co or follow the team on Twitter @dynamiqthinking