You might believe that cyber security is only for big companies. Data crimes are often reported by high-profile businesses. Ubert and Crypto.com both suffered cyber attacks in 2022. Comcast, Facebook and LinkedIn were all cyber-attacked in 2021.
It’s not only large companies that are at risk. Ransomware, insider threats and data leaks are all possible for small businesses.
We have gathered information that will help you to understand the importance and value of cybersecurity for small businesses.
October is Cybersecurity Awareness month
Since 2004, President Bush and Congress have designated October as Cybersecurity Month. The goal is to help individuals protect themselves from online threats and to ensure that confidential data and technology are protected.
The theme of this year’s campaign — “See Yourself In Cyber“, shows that, while cybersecurity can seem complex, it is ultimately about people. October 2022 focuses on the “people’s” side of cybersecurity. It will provide information and resources that can help educate and empower individuals and organizations to make smart cybersecurity choices.
What is Cybersecurity?
According to Wikipedia (r), computer security is also known as IT security or cybersecurity. It’s the protection of systems against theft, damage, or loss to their hardware, software, and information.
Cybersecurity strategies must include both the control of physical access to hardware and protection against any harm that could be caused by network access. Intentional or accidental mistakes by operators can lead to security breaches. You can also trick users into deviating away from security procedures.
Cybersecurity Statistics for 2021
Media coverage of cyber-security failures at large companies is extensive. The Colonial Pipeline(r), JBS(r), and Microsoft Exchange(r), as well as the fallout of the breach, are all top stories. The little guys also get hit. Here are some disturbing statistics that could impact your bottom line:
- Cyberattacks on small businesses increased by 424% in 2020
- Three-quarters of small businesses use free consumer-grade security
- Average cost of cyber-attacks caused by insiders is $7.68 Million
- Ransomware is a common threat to small business
- 30 percent of organizations are most concerned about phishing.
How to protect small businesses
Consider these steps when reviewing your company’s cybersecurity:
- Use long and varied passwords to protect sensitive accounts Everyone should know that using “123Password” as a security measure is not advisable. Make sure that your important accounts are password-protected and that only the employees who require the information can log in. Create foolproof passwords using a program such as the Secure Password Generator (r).
- Enable two-factor verification for sensitive accounts
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer to security to your account, preventing anyone from logging in even if they know your password. You must verify your identity by using a random code sent to you via email or text.
