Cyber threats pose a significant risk to businesses of all sizes, yet many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) fail to invest in comprehensive cybersecurity measures. Just as you secure your home with locks, your business needs robust cybersecurity solutions to safeguard against digital threats. Simple antivirus software is insufficient for protecting against data theft, fraud, or system hijacking. However, choosing the right cybersecurity solutions for your SMB can be daunting.

So what are the cybersecurity best practices for SMBs?

We’ll highlight the essential cybersecurity solutions you should consider investing in, explain why these solutions are effective, and discuss the risks of neglecting them.

What Are Cybersecurity Services?

Cybersecurity services encompass a variety of professional services designed to protect your business and IT systems. SMBs often become targets for cybercriminals seeking valuable data, personal or financial information, or control over your digital assets. Without proper security measures, these criminals can easily breach your systems, causing extensive damage.

Investing in professional, enterprise-grade cybersecurity solutions from a trusted Managed Services Provider (MSP) like NerdsToGo can help prevent these breaches. Comprehensive cybersecurity ensures that your systems and accounts remain secure whether they are online, in the cloud, on desktops, mobile devices, or email systems.

Importance of Cybersecurity for Local Businesses

You might think that as a small or medium-sized business, you're not a likely target for cybercriminals. Unfortunately, SMBs are often the most common and lucrative targets because they typically invest less in cybersecurity, making them easier to exploit. According to a 2018 Cisco study, over half (53%) of SMBs experienced data breaches. Another 2017 report by the Ponemon Institute noted a 50% increase in data breaches among SMBs.

The impact of a cyberattack on your business can be severe. Not only might your financial information and that of your customers be stolen, but you could also face expensive downtime, potential legal repercussions, and significant damage to your reputation. Losing customer trust can ultimately result in losing business, affecting you financially.

To avoid being part of the majority of SMBs that face cyberattacks, or the 60% that are forced to close within six months of one, it is crucial to follow cybersecurity best practices.

Key Cybersecurity Measures for SMBs

There are five main cybersecurity solutions that SMBs should prioritize:

Conducting regular cybersecurity assessments
Training employees on cybersecurity
Adding multi-factor authentication (MFA) to all logins
Investing in antivirus/antimalware software across devices and platforms
Having a robust data backup and recovery plan in place

While other measures can also enhance your security, these five form a solid foundation.

Conducting Regular Security Assessments

Regular security assessments are essential for identifying potential vulnerabilities in your digital platforms and devices. By investing in professional cybersecurity solutions from an MSP like NerdsToGo, you can benefit from routine scans and comprehensive reports that highlight action items to maintain strong defenses

Employee Training Programs

Human error is a common entry point for cyberthreats, with phishing emails being a primary method. These fraudulent emails appear credible but contain malicious links. Training your employees to identify and avoid these threats is crucial, especially since SMB employees face 350% more social engineering attacks than those at larger companies.

Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to complete multiple verification steps. For example, after entering a password, users might need to input a code sent to their mobile number. MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if passwords are compromised.

Using and Updating Antivirus Software

While antivirus software alone isn't enough for comprehensive cybersecurity, it remains a critical component. Implement antivirus software on all business devices, including phones, tablets, and cloud services. Regularly updating the software ensures protection against evolving threats.

Data Backup and Recovery Plans

Cyberattacks can happen, but how you respond and recover is key. Some industries may be legally required to have data backup and disaster recovery plans. Even if not mandated, it's advisable to have a plan. An MSP like NerdsToGo can help you develop and test a recovery plan, ensuring that data loss is minimized, and business continuity is maintained.

The Role of Managed Service Providers (MSPs)

There are numerous cybersecurity solutions available, and not every option will suit your business. Working with a trusted, locally-based MSP like NerdsToGo can help you determine the best fit. NerdsToGo offers customized cybersecurity services, including immediate threat response and advanced monitoring, to keep your SMB protected against a wide range of threats.

Summary

Cyberattacks are a major threat to SMBs. By implementing these best practices and partnering with experts like NerdsToGo, you can stay one step ahead of malicious actors and avoid costly, potentially business-ending attacks. For more information on our SMB cybersecurity solutions, please contact NerdsToGo today..

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are small businesses targeted by hackers?

Cybercriminals often see small businesses as easy targets because they usually have weaker security measures and are easier to exploit.

What are the key cybersecurity measures for SMBs?

As an SMB, the essential steps include conducting regular security checks, training your team, using multi-factor authentication for logins, investing in good antivirus software, and developing a solid data backup and recovery plan.

How can MSPs like NerdsToGo help my business?

NerdsToGo specializes in implementing top-notch cybersecurity solutions for SMBs, including staff training, round-the-clock systems monitoring, and disaster recovery solutions. We work to protect your business from cyberthreats, so you can focus on your business.

Why do cyberattacks increase during holidays?

During public holidays, digital communication often increases, making it easier for phishing attempts and other attacks to slip through. Additionally, businesses are usually less manned during these periods, providing cybercriminals more opportunity to maximize damage.