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As a small business owner, you might not think you’re at risk of a cyber-attack. After all, why would anyone want to target a small business? However, the truth is that small businesses are prime targets for cybercriminals. This is because they often lack the robust cybersecurity measures of larger enterprises. Research shows that 70% of cyber-attacks occur at businesses with less than 100 employees, further proving the importance of a detailed security plan.

Why are SMBs an easy target?

Over 50% of SMBs have reported falling victim to a security breach in the last year. This is because they typically lack the budget, time, and knowledge to secure their systems and data effectively. As a result, small businesses are often targets of cybercriminals. In addition, small businesses typically have fewer resources available in case of a data breach or other cybersecurity incident. This can make it difficult for them to recover from an attack and may even put them out of business.

 

Furthermore, SMBs collect and store customer data that hackers can easily access. This information includes banking information, social security numbers, medical records, and more. Hackers can quickly sell this data to make a quick profit, making SMBs a prime target. Hackers are also smart enough to realize that SMBs often do not operate solely on their own. They are often linked with third-party suppliers and operators, opening the door for third-party vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities create easy access points for hackers to access sensitive information.

 

Another downfall that SMBs experience is their lack of skilled staff. With smaller budgets, SMBs are not always capable of providing themselves with adequate support to help battle these attacks. This falls back into the budget limitations; however, there are still ways to protect you and your organization from cybercrime! Something that larger companies and corporations can afford to staff are skilled cybersecurity professionals.

 

 

The Most Common Threats

Although no organization, regardless of the size, is immune to these attacks, these are the most common threats that SMBs face.

 

  • Viruses and Malware: This is one of the most common threats within the cybercrime universe. These types of software will cause extensive damage to your organization’s networks, servers, computers, mobile devices, and virtually any connected device.
  • Ransomware: Although a type of malware, this category has become prominent enough to earn a name. Ransomware is a grave threat and should be taken as such. These Trojans, disguised as legitimate file downloads, will infiltrate your system and pose massive threats of exposure. With your company’s data on the line and systems that have been shut down, the only way to appease the hacker is to pay a set ransom.
  • Phishing: This tried-and-true method allows the hacker to trick the unsuspecting victim into releasing sensitive information. It is often disguised as someone or something you trust through platforms like email, instant messenger, and web forms. The most sought-after information is banking, social security numbers, usernames, passwords, and other sensitive information on which they can get their hands.

How can you help your business?

Now that you know the top threats and why SMBs tend to be at the top of hacker lists, you can devise an effective action plan.


  • Mobile Device Security: When businesses can do virtually everything on a mobile device, they pose additional security risks for SMBs. Encouraging and requiring password protection on devices and encryption of data can help! If you allow an employee’s mobile device to connect to your SMBs network, the information can be easily accessed when they return to a public network.
  • Password Policies: Keeping up your employee’s passwords is the best practice for protecting your SMB. Encouraging strong and unique passwords for
    all devices, including lower case, upper case, symbols, and numbers, is harder for hackers to guess. Multi-factor authentication apps aren’t a bad idea
    either! It is also recommended to change your passwords every three months.
  • Cybersecurity Policies: A written guide outlining cybersecurity policies and procedures can save you and your employees from many headaches. This way, you have a written starting point to reference when there are questions about what is right and wrong.
  • Employee Knowledge: You are only as strong as your weakest player! Therefore, ensuring that all your employees are trained and knowledgeable in basic cybersecurity practices will help boost your overall safety. Ensuring that they are familiar with company procedures is vital. You can do this through regularly scheduled employee training.

How your ISP can aid in protection

In today’s digital age, choosing a reliable and secure internet service provider is more important than ever. A good internet service provider will offer features like malware protection and firewalls to help keep your computer and personal information safe from hackers. Additionally, a reputable internet service provider will have a team of experts who can assist you if you experience any security issues. By taking the time to research your options and choose a reputable internet service provider, you can help to keep your computer and personal information safe from cyber threats.

 

Looking for a reliable internet service provider to help keep your small business safe from cybersecurity threats? Look no further than Wiresurfer. We offer high-speed internet connections, and our advanced security features will help protect your business from malware, phishing attempts, and other online threats. Our friendly and knowledgeable customer support team is always available to help if you have any questions or concerns. So why wait? Sign up today and experience peace of mind by knowing your business is safe from internet vulnerabilities.

 

September 8, 2023

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