2022 was a turbulent year for cybersecurity. Several large companies, including Twitter and Uber, made headlines after experiencing data breaches. While it’s true that high-profile breaches grab the media spotlight, it doesn’t mean that small businesses are free from cybersecurity concerns, either. In fact, the opposite is true. Small businesses are increasingly becoming attractive targets for hackers.
No matter the size of your company, digital security is an essential part of your business operations. Let’s look at what cybersecurity is and why every small business needs a strong cybersecurity presence.
What Is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity, which is also called Information Technology (IT) security, protects critical systems, networks, and information against digital breaches or cyberattacks.
Cyberattacks usually try to steal sensitive data, extort money, or damage an organization’s computers. Criminals use several methods to carry out cyberattacks, but the most common for small businesses are email phishing and malware.
The good news is that you have the power to fight back. A strong cybersecurity strategy protects your valuable assets, empowers your employees, and increases consumer trust in your business. However, cybersecurity isn’t a one-time implementation or training. Instead, effective cybersecurity is an ongoing process for any small business.
The Importance of Cybersecurity for Small Businesses
As cyber threats increase in size and scope, more enterprises are investing in cybersecurity tools. As they strengthen their security postures, hackers are pivoting toward easier targets: small businesses. Unfortunately, cyber attacks against small businesses are becoming increasingly common. As of 2021, 46% of all data breaches targeted small to medium-sized companies with fewer than 1,000 employees.
Of course, the financial ramifications of an attack can have a big impact on high-profile enterprises. But one breach can sink a small company, which is why cybersecurity is so important for small businesses.
Why Do Cybercriminals Target Small Businesses?
Hackers go after small businesses for three main reasons.
Fewer Resources
Small businesses are responsible for protecting customer data, including personally identifiable information (PII). However, unlike large enterprises, small businesses often don’t have the resources to safeguard this data against evolving cyber threats. Hackers know this, and they also know that small business employees might lack the cybersecurity training to recognize an attack in the making.
Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated in their attack methods. They commonly use various types of social engineering attacks, like email phishing, to target smaller businesses for one simple reason: they work. The average employee of a business with fewer than 100 employees will experience 350% more social engineering attacks than an employee at a bigger company.
The Rapid Growth of Technology and IoT
As the use of technology increases, more small companies rely on IoT devices to optimize their operations. However, as their network of smart devices grows, so do potential threats. Most IoT devices lack built-in security and allow remote access, which creates more security vulnerabilities for small businesses.
Links To Bigger Companies
Small businesses are often digitally linked to larger companies for various purposes. Hackers might not be able to penetrate the defenses of the larger organization, so they go after the small businesses that support them instead. For example, consider the massive Target breach in 2014: hackers accessed the network using login credentials stolen from Target’s HVAC partner.
How Do I Learn More About Cybersecurity for My Small Business?
If your business uses the internet, you need to create and maintain an effective cybersecurity plan. The good news is that you don’t have to do it alone. TechHeights offers the best-managed IT services in Orange County. Our experts understand the cybersecurity needs of small businesses and support your business when you need it the most. Contact us today to see how a custom cybersecurity framework can help your small business thrive.
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While it’s true that high-profile companies grab the media spotlight, it doesn’t mean that small businesses are free from cybersecurity concerns. In fact, the opposite is true. Small businesses are increasingly becoming attractive targets for hackers.
So, why do cybercriminals target small businesses? It comes down to three things:
- Small businesses have fewer resources
- They’re using more technology than ever before
- Small businesses are often linked to bigger enterprises
Check out TechHeights’ latest blog to learn how cybersecurity can help small businesses beat the bad guys.
Categories: Compliance, Cyber Security, IT Security