10 Biggest Cybersecurity Mistakes of Small Companies

Cyberattacks can be sophisticated, but often lax cybersecurity practices lead to breaches, particularly in small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs). Small business owners often underestimate the importance of cybersecurity, assuming they’re not at risk due to their size or budget constraints. However, small businesses are attractive targets for cybercriminals.

Fifty percent of SMBs have been victims of cyberattacks. More than 60% of them go out of business afterward.

Are You Making Any of These Cybersecurity Mistakes?

Read on to see if any of this sounds familiar around your company.

1. Underestimating the Threat
SMBs often underestimate the risk and become easy targets. Assuming that your business is too insignificant to attract cyber-criminals is a risky misconception. Proactive cybersecurity measures are essential.

2. Neglecting Employee Training
Small businesses often neglect cybersecurity training for their employees. Owners assume that they will naturally be cautious online.

However, the human factor is a significant source of security vulnerabilities. Employees may inadvertently click on malicious links or download infected files.

Staff cybersecurity training helps them:
• Recognize phishing attempts
• Understand the importance of strong passwords
• Be aware of social engineering tactics used by cyber-criminals

3. Using Weak Passwords
Weak passwords are a common security vulnerability in small companies, with employees frequently using easily guessable passwords or reusing them for multiple accounts.

People reuse passwords 64% of the time.
Encourage the use of strong, unique passwords. Consider implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of security.

4. Ignoring Software Updates
Cybercriminals often exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to systems. Regular updates are vital.

5. Lacking a Data Backup Plan
Small companies may not have formal data backup and recovery plans. They might mistakenly assume that data loss won’t happen to them. However, data loss can result from various factors, including cyberattacks, hardware failures, or human errors. Regularly back up critical data and test the backups to ensure they can be restored during data loss.

6. No Formal Security Policies
Small businesses often operate without clear security policies and procedures, leaving employees unaware of essential information, such as handling sensitive data or responding to security incidents. Establish and communicate formal security policies covering password management, data handling, incident reporting, and remote work security.

7. Ignoring Mobile Security
Mobile security is increasingly important as more employees use mobile devices for work. Small companies often overlook this aspect of cybersecurity.
Mobile devices need protection with mobile device management (MDM) solutions.

8. Failing to Watch Networks Regularly
SMBs may not have IT staff to watch their networks for suspicious activities. This can result in delayed detection of security breaches.
Network monitoring tools or services help detect threats promptly.

9. No Incident Response Plan
In the face of a cybersecurity incident, SMBs without an incident response plan may panic. They can also respond ineffectively.
Develop a comprehensive incident response plan to handle security incidents effectively.

10. Thinking They Don’t Need Managed IT Services
Cyber threats continually evolve, and small businesses often struggle to keep up, thinking they’re too small to invest in managed IT services. However, managed services are available in various package sizes, including those designed for SMB budgets. A managed service provider (MSP) can enhance your cybersecurity and optimize your IT, potentially saving you money.

Learn More About eMDTec Managed IT Services and how we can help your company in New Jersey.

Don’t risk losing your business because of a cyberattack. eMDTec Managed IT services can be more affordable for your business than you think. Here at eMDTec, we cater to your needs and create a custom IT plan for your business. Don’t leave your business vulnerable to cyberattacks. Consider eMDTec, your trusted partner in enhancing cybersecurity while optimizing your IT infrastructure.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore how our services can benefit your business.

The article was used with permission from The Technology Press.