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How Small Businesses Can Stay Secure from Cyber Threats

How Small Businesses Can Stay Secure from Cyber Threats

Read Time: 3 minutes Published: December 5, 2024

Small and medium businesses (SMBs) are no longer flying under the radar of cybercriminals. 43% of cyber attacks are aimed at small businesses, and only 14% are considered prepared, aware, and capable of defending their networks and data.* Hackers are increasingly exploiting the lack of strong security measures in smaller organizations. The consequences? Financial losses, data breaches, and compliance risks that could permanently damage SMBs reputation.

But protecting your business isn’t about installing a single security tool or software. It’s about building a comprehensive, layered defense that safeguards every potential entry point.

The Cybersecurity Gaps That Leave SMBs Exposed

Many SMBs underestimate their vulnerability to cyberattacks, often due to a lack of resources or understanding of best practices. Here are the most common gaps we see:

  • Weak Password Practices: Without strong password policies or the use of a password manager, businesses leave themselves open to credential-based attacks. Hackers often exploit weak or reused passwords to access sensitive systems.
  • Limited Employee Training: Employees are frequently targeted by phishing attacks and other social engineering tactics. Without proper training, they may unknowingly open the door to cybercriminals.
  • Inadequate Endpoint Security: Desktops, laptops, and mobile devices are often the first targets for attackers. Failing to monitor and secure these endpoints leaves critical gaps in your defense.
  • Minimal Network Protection: SMBs often rely on basic firewalls and outdated network security, which can’t keep up with evolving threats like ransomware or unauthorized access.
  • Lack of Data Backups and MFA: Without routine backups and multi-factor authentication (MFA), businesses risk losing valuable data or facing ransomware attacks that could halt operations entirely.

These vulnerabilities underscore the need for a proactive, layered approach to cybersecurity. Electric’s solutions are designed to address these challenges head-on.

What Is a Layered Cybersecurity Approach?

A layered cybersecurity strategy means building defenses at multiple levels to close every possible gap. Electric specializes in providing SMBs with a comprehensive solution that protects your employees, devices, network, and data – all aligned with your business needs.

How Electric Protects Every Layer of Your Business

At Electric, we know that SMBs need more than just basic protections. Our layered approach ensures your business is covered from every angle:

  • Human Layer: Your employees are often the first line of defense.
    • Solution: Electric’s Password Manager provides secure sharing of credentials and secrets. Plus, data breach protection for your employees and organization.
  • Network Security: A secure network is critical for preventing unauthorized access.
    • Solution: Electric’s Remote Access VPN ensures employees can safely connect to your organization’s private network, no matter where they’re working, with encrypted and secure access.
  • Endpoint Security: Every device in your business needs protection.
    • Solution: Electric’s Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) software provides real-time monitoring and integration with the Electric IT Hub for streamlined management.
  • Data Security: Protecting your data means keeping it secure, backed up, and recoverable.
    • Solution: SaaS Backup, Email Security, and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA/ 2FA) prevent accidental data loss and protect your inboxes from malware and phishing attacks.

Each of these layers works together to provide SMBs with the protection they need to stay secure in today’s increasingly hostile cyber landscape.

Take Your Next Step Toward Cybersecurity

As cyber threats evolve, SMBs must rise to the challenge with equally advanced defenses. By adopting a layered approach, you can protect your business, gain peace of mind, and stay focused on growing your company.

Want to learn more about how Electric can help? Contact us today!

*Source: Accenture’s Cost of Cybercrime Study

Moyna John

Moyna John is the Content and Community Marketing Manager at Electric, overseeing both content creation and distribution marketing functions. She has a proven track record of driving engagement and growth across digital platforms, specializing in social media strategy, SEO, and community building.

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