The cybersecurity threat landscape faced by small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) has become increasingly complex in today’s environment. Cyber criminals are frequently targeting SMBs through different methods. SMBs often do not have resources enterprise-level companies have, and the impact of a cyberattack on an SMB can be incredibly difficult to recover from. Developing awareness of the most common attacks and learning about preventative measures can help SMBs from becoming victims to cyber criminals.
SMBs and mitigating top cyber threats
SMBs are vulnerable to a variety of cyber threats and attacks by cyber criminals. It is important for SMBs and their employees to be aware of cyber threats to maintain vigilance and remain secure.
Top threats to SMBs can range from the digital landscape to even physical landscapes. SMBs must be prepared to look at all potential areas of vulnerability. Top threats for SMBs include:
1. Ransomware: Ransomware is one of the most popular types of cyberattack. With this type of attack, a threat actor will use malicious code to make parts of a computer inaccessible. To unlock files or their device, a victim is instructed to pay a “ransom” to an account or address, though paying may not always guarantee that the ransomware will be removed. Employers must train employees to be mindful and vigilant about links they are clicking on. SMBs can also use a virus or malware scanning software which can review email attachments to detect any potential threats.
2. Phishing: Like ransomware, phishing attacks attempt to trick email or internet users into clicking a link that will download malicious software to the machine or device an employee is using. Common phishing attacks are used in websites, pop-ups, text messages, emails and instant messages. Some attacks will ask for sensitive information. Employers must educate their employees on phishing tactics and instruct employees to report any suspicious emails. SMBs can also utilize email-filtering solutions to block phishing emails.
3. Malware: One of the most common types of attack is malware, a term which came from abbreviating “malicious software.” Malware is used to gain access to computers or networks without the owner or user’s knowledge. A computer can become infected by downloading malicious files via email, USB drives or even website ads. This malicious software allows infected systems and sensitive files to be accessed by an attacker. SMBs can use antivirus software on their computers and laptops to prevent potential data breaches and also provide employees with security awareness trainings.
4. Social engineering: Social engineering attacks can occur when an employee clicks on phishing emails, downloads corrupt files, uses weak passwords or refrains from using encrypted emails protecting sensitive data. Training employees about best practices when it comes to cyber hygiene can decrease the risk associated with these types of attacks.
5. Third-party breaches: Many SMBs use freelancers or contractors which can provide effective benefits to companies. This can also increase the level of risk and vulnerability a company faces. One method attackers use is to access company networks through less secure networks belonging to third parties who have been granted privileged access. SMBs can mitigate this risk by enforcing strong cybersecurity policies, which require all employees, freelancers/contractors to use secure Wi-Fi networks and also implement the use of multifactor authentication (MFA).
6. Physical security: SMBs must also safeguard their physical landscapes and hardware such as servers, computers and any networked technology. Preventing unauthorized physical access is key to avoid data breaches or system disruptions. SMBs can use physical security components such as access control systems, surveillance systems, and intrusion detection systems, to name a few, to protect their physical assets and data.
Through increased awareness and an understanding of potential risks, SMBs can face the unique challenges they are presented with in an ever-evolving threat landscape. Cyber criminals continue to view SMBs as desirable targets, so it is critical for SMBs to be aware of the most common types of threats they are vulnerable to, as well as the ways they can mitigate their risk.
Training employees and increasing their awareness can help prevent many attacks. SMBs can also fortify their security through the use of various tools and methods such as using antivirus software, firewalls, implementing MFA and more. These steps can help companies and their employees prevent successful attacks through proactive defenses. SMBs can continue to implement stronger cybersecurity measures by developing a road map and plan to adopt higher defense postures to protect their entire organization, employees and data.
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