Your Full SMB Cybersecurity Guide
Posted on Friday, February 23, 2024 and filed under Articles
The average data breach costs businesses millions of dollars, as much as 60% of small businesses shutter within six months following a data breach or cyber attack, and small businesses are subject to 350% more social engineering attacks compared to enterprises. Needless to say, cybersecurity for SMBs is more than critical.
| “Our mission is to provide comprehensive cybersecurity solutions tailored to the unique threats facing SMBs, safeguarding their businesses from threats both current and developing,” – Jim Stackhouse, Founder & Chief Technologist, NeoLore Networks |
If you’re not sure where to start, this article will introduce you to what you need to do to protect your SMB. We’ll discuss the biggest risks, what you can do to prevent them, and how the right cybersecurity partner can help.
Common Cybersecurity Risks
SMBs face a wide variety of cybersecurity threats that can have devastating consequences. Here are the most common ones that you need to look out for.
Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks are when cybercriminals use deceptive emails or messages to trick employees into revealing sensitive information or downloading malware. These attacks can lead to data breaches, financial loss, and reputational damage.
Weak Passwords
Weak or easily guessable passwords are a significant vulnerability, as they can provide unauthorized access to sensitive systems and data. Insecure password practices, such as reusing passwords across multiple accounts or failing to update default passwords, increase the risk of credential theft and unauthorized access.
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Unpatched Systems
Failing to apply software updates and patches leaves systems vulnerable to exploitation by cyber threats leveraging known vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals often target unpatched systems to gain unauthorized access, steal sensitive data, or deploy malware, highlighting the importance of timely patch management.
Lack of Employee Training
Insufficient cybersecurity awareness among employees can lead to inadvertent security breaches, such as clicking on malicious links or falling victim to social engineering tactics. Without proper training, employees may unknowingly expose your organization to cyber risks.
Inadequate Endpoint Security
Devices connected to the network are vulnerable to malware infections and other cyber threats. Endpoint security solutions, such as antivirus software and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools, are essential for detecting and blocking malicious activities on devices, protecting both endpoints and the overall network infrastructure.
| NeoLore Networks Can Help With Cybersecurity – But That’s Not All! |
Insider Threats
Insider threats, whether intentional or unintentional, pose a significant risk to SMBs. Employees or contractors with access to sensitive data or systems may misuse their privileges, intentionally leak confidential information, or inadvertently expose the organization to cyber threats through negligent actions.
Lack of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Without multi-factor authentication (MFA), SMBs rely solely on passwords for authentication, making it easier for cybercriminals to compromise user accounts. Implementing MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification steps, such as a one-time passcode sent to a mobile device, reducing the risk of unauthorized access to critical systems and data.
Preventing Cybersecurity Threats
| Cybersecurity Vulnerability | How They Can Be Prevented |
| Phishing Attacks | Implementation of email filtering solutions to block malicious emails and provide employee training on recognizing phishing attempts. |
| Weak Passwords | Deployment of password management tools and enforcement of strong password policies to enhance password security across the organization. |
| Unpatched Systems | Continuous monitoring and management of software updates and patches to ensure systems are up-to-date and protected against known vulnerabilities. |
| Lack of Employee Training | Provision of cybersecurity awareness training programs to educate employees on recognizing and responding to potential security threats. |
| Inadequate Endpoint Security | Deployment of advanced endpoint protection solutions, such as antivirus and anti-malware software, to detect and prevent malicious activities on devices. |
| Insider Threats | Implementation of user access controls, user activity monitoring, and security awareness training to mitigate the risk of insider threats and unauthorized data access. |
| Lack of Multi-Factor Authentication | Implementation of multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security and reduce the risk of unauthorized access through credential theft or brute-force attacks. |
Protect Your Business With NeoLore Networks
Outsourcing cybersecurity offers SMBs access to experts, resources, and advanced technologies to combat the growing threat landscape effectively. By investing in robust cybersecurity measures, SMBs can protect their assets, preserve customer trust, and ensure long-term success in today’s digital-driven business environment.
NeoLore Networks offers leading-edge cybersecurity solutions, including routine monitoring and rapid incident response services. Our cybersecurity offerings will ensure that your business is safeguarded against all malicious online actors.
Talk to us today to get started on your cybersecurity for your SMB.