Many small business owners mistakenly assume that since their operations are small, they are insignificant to cyber-security criminals. This gives them a false sense that their businesses can fly under the radar and therefore, don’t have to worry about cybersecurity threats.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
In fact, 28% — nearly one third — of all data breaches in 2020 involved small and medium-sized businesses (SMB). Much of this activity is attributed to the trend toward web-based tools and a considerable increase in social attacks. While 74% of the attacks were external, a whopping 30% involved internal sources.
Regardless of the threat’s source, the numbers clearly show that SMBs should make cybersecurity a priority to protect their digital and physical assets. With 52% of these attacks focused on stealing credentials and customer information, it’s crucial that you take steps to protect this sensitive data from unauthorized use.
Common Cyberthreats and How to Prevent Them
Today’s increasingly sophisticated hackers have many techniques at their fingertips that allow them access to your computer infrastructure — and your sensitive data. Some of these include:
- Phishing emails
- Ransomware attacks
- Spyware
- Use of stolen credentials
- Brute force
- Password dumping (stealing passwords)
- Adminware
Typically, companies install antivirus software and consider their cybersecurity initiatives addressed. While antivirus measures can protect you against some malware, it’s not a comprehensive solution. Smart companies ensure they have a suite of strong digital security measures in place.
These strategies often include employee education protocols to help root out phishing and other social attacks and ensure stronger password protections.
Deploying protective measures like these are necessary to prevent the kind of catastrophic loss that can destroy your company. In fact, up to 60% of SMBs go out of business within six months of a data breach, so prevention is not just necessary — it’s critical.
Typical protective measures include:
- Keeping antivirus software updated
- Implementing strong password policies
- Installing and maintaining firewalls
- Monitoring file integrity
- Performing regular risk assessments
- Deploying incident and failure response protocols
Using these safeguards can help your SMB detect — and prevent — suspicious activity that can lead to compromised data. Remember, a breach not only affects companies financially, but it also compromises customer trust and can permanently negatively affect reputation.
Companies that are serious about cybersecurity often employ a knowledgeable managed IT services provider that specializes in developing strong and secure corporate infrastructures. These managed services providers ensure a company’s hardware and software are routinely updated and meticulously maintained.
Leveraging their industry expertise, these cybersecurity professionals can take the pressure off of your in-house IT department or even step in where no IT department exists. Because they are privy to constantly evolving security best practices, they can expertly craft security solutions that match your needs with your budgetary constraints.
And, for those businesses that must consider compliance with regulatory standards such as Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX), HIPAA, or the GDPR, among others, having a reputable and knowledgeable team of experts lends another level of assurance that sensitive data is appropriately protected.
Cybersecurity Should Be a Priority for Your Small Business
Let the RJ Young Team Take Your Cybersecurity to the Next Level
RJ Young’s Managed IT Services team has their fingers on the pulse of cybersecurity. We understand that failure to employ adequate safeguards can mean disaster for your business.
That’s why we provide convenient and personalized cybersecurity services. Our IT experts not only focus on developing a strategic IT security plan that dovetails with your business goals, but also educate your staff on security best practices. Our services are available for a flat monthly fee, so there are never any surprise costs. It’s our goal to make cybersecurity an easy item to fit in your budget and your operations.
We take care of choosing the correct solutions, performing regular maintenance, backups, and ensuring everything is up to date with the latest security patches and upgrades. Finally, we provide 24/7 remote monitoring of your entire network — including mobile devices —to detect unauthorized or suspicious activity before it becomes a problem.
Choose a cybersecurity solution that can grow with your business and keep pace with changes in the industry. Contact an RJ Young representative today and protect your sensitive information — and your business — today!