Take charge of your online reputation

More than half of British businesses suffer unfair negative reviews, according to research by online reputation management expert Igniyte, but 40% of SMEs never bother to check whether any damaging reviews about their business have been posted online.

These worrying figures suggest many of today’s SMEs, lacking an in-house IT or marketing department that can monitor how they are perceived online, are running their businesses blindfolded. This is despite 89% of people saying online reviews influence their buying decisions and 77% of SMEs stating that a good online reputation is important for business.

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Motor vehicles: the new instruments of terror

The use of hire vehicles to kill and maim people is a new form of terrorism. But who is liable to compensate victims? And are you covered against terrorist threat if you hire out vehicles?

We are all aware of the tragic events in London earlier this year in which motor vehicles were used by terrorists, resulting in many life-changing injuries and deaths.

A man injured in the Westminster attack is currently bringing a legal liability claim in respect of counselling and rehabilitation against Zurich, the insurer of the rental company who hired out the vehicle used in the attack. Zurich has publicly stated they have ‘a specialist team looking at how the policy is impacted’ and that ‘the tragic event presents many complex aspects as far as insurance is concerned’.

Willis Towers Watson has explored the legality of whether the motor insurer or the Motor Insurance Bureau (MIB) could be held liable to compensate victims of such attacks, and agree with Zurich that it is a complex issue. Read more →

New privacy laws designed to protect consumers

The Data Protection Act is being replaced by a new data protection law, which comes into force across the European Union (EU) in May 2018. This new law fundamentally changes the way personal data can be handled and is known as the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). So, how will it impact consumers? Read more →

The pros and cons of offshore insurers

Offshore insurers are able to provide very competitive terms. But there can be a price to pay for lower cost insurance and you need to be aware of the pitfalls.

Offshore insurers are based outside the UK, in such locations as Gibraltar, Bermuda, Belize, The Cayman Islands and Ireland, which means it is impossible to assess their financial ability to meet claim liabilities. As they have no financial rating, it is very difficult to determine their financial strength, stability and security.

Whilst they may be able to offer substantial advantages in terms of cost-savings and tax efficiency, offshore insurers are not registered with the UK regulator, which means policyholders do not get the same level of protection as they would if a company in any EU Member state ceased trading. Read more →

Are you GDPR ready? Our 10 step guide

The new EU General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) is already law, with an enforcement date of 25 May 2018. By then, all businesses will need to be fully compliant or face heavy fines, which means you need to make the necessary changes now.

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