They say recognizing a problem is the first step in solving it. But when it comes to cybersecurity, many SMBs don’t believe they have a real problem on their hands. Many simply believe that hackers will focus their attention exclusively on large and well-heeled organizations and aren’t interested in smaller businesses. Unfortunately, this couldn’t be further from the truth, and it’s this mentality that leaves businesses highly susceptible to attacks.
1) Not If, but When
Many small businesses don’t invest sufficiently in IT security resources and protection. This may be due in part to the fact that they may not know they’re being targeted. According to the Ponemon Institute 2016 State of SMB Cybersecurity Report, hackers have breached 50% of the 28 million small businesses in the United States have no clue they’re being targeted.
2) Evolving Threat Landscape
Trying to keep pace with the changing nature of cyber threats is a full-time job. Many cannot afford the cost of internal IT security staff, which is why it?s imperative that their MSP keep them protected from zero-day threats.
3) Users Don’t Always Know Security Best-practices
In the last year, phishing was involved in 90% of breaches, which makes end users both the weakest link and the first line of defense. The best way to counter this threat is to train and educate end-users on the impact of their online behaviors. A well-trained user can help prevent threats like ransomware, drive-by downloads, keyloggers, and many more.
4) Lack of Effective Security Policies and Protocols
Companies should have documented policies in place to ensure all passwords are strong and regularly changed. Although these actions are status-quo, two-factor authentication is many. Access rights to network files, folders, and file shares need to be tightly controlled to avoid malware wreaking havoc on networks.
5) Exposure to Multiple Vector
All the ways that users can interact with the internet must be considered, from emails, attachments, links, to web browsing and network activity. Effective endpoint security starts with protecting each of these vectors from cyber attacks featuring multi-layered protection to defend you from threats that use different exploits to gain access to your network.
6) Complex Security Creates Admin Challenges
Consider not only the costs of buying cybersecurity software but also the operational expenses of the latest in security technology. Systems that use best-in-class solutions paired with minor automation can make security both more affordable and more effective. Using these solutions allows internal teams tasked with administration jobs easier.
7) Out-of-Date Systems
By following a rigorous patching regime, you can avoid many of the application vulnerabilities used to comprise networks. At times, patching can feel unimportant, but with the help of our staff and a little automation, patching management has become smoother and more cost-effective. WannaCry, 2018?s biggest cyber-scare could have been avoided completely by simply patching systems to best practices.
8) Murky Network Visibility
Having accurate information about your network technology and what’s connected to it is vital in protecting users from both internal and external threats. Network monitoring tools can identify network anomalies and counter threats before they do harm to your systems. Knowing can be half the battle, and being able to pinpoint affected systems and the potential path of destruction.
9) Poor Backup Practices
Faced with attacks like ransomware, SMBs must have an effective backup and retention policy. 60% of companies that suffer from a cyber attack are out of business within 6 months due to the sheer amount of data loss. There are many on and off-premise cloud-based backup systems that will help avoid such fate. Unfortunately, for companies willing to pay the ransom these days, it will not guarantee you will get your data back.
10) Compliance
Regulations affect several of the largest industries, and securing endpoints are a routine compliance requirement for most. It has become vital to understand your compliance obligations and ensure sufficient security is in place to protect your business.
Clare Computer Solutions has the tools and experience to handle any aspect of your IT security. With tools to assess and remediate vulnerabilities. Clare Computer Solutions handles multiple networks, so we can apply this broad experience to expertly advise on your company’s technology strategies. Contact us today to begin the conversation on securing your business.
