The 10 Common Cybersecurity Mistakes SMEs Make

Cybercriminals can launch highly sophisticated attacks. Lax cybersecurity practices are often the root cause of most breaches. This is especially true for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

Small business owners often don't prioritize cybersecurity measures. They may be focused on growing their business. They may think the risk of a data breach is minimal. Or they may think it's an expense they can't afford.

Cybersecurity isn't just a concern for large corporations. It's also a crucial issue for small businesses. SMEs are often considered attractive targets for cybercriminals. This is due to the many vulnerabilities they perceive.

50% of SMEs have been victims of cyberattacks. More than 60% of them subsequently cease operations.

Cybersecurity doesn't have to be expensive. Most data breaches are the result of human error. This means that improving cyber hygiene can reduce the risk of falling victim to an attack.

Are You Making Any of These Cybersecurity Mistakes?

To tackle the problem, you first need to identify it. Often, SMB teams make mistakes they don't even realize they're making. Here are some of the main reasons small businesses fall victim to cyberattacks. Read on to see if any of these sound familiar.

1. Underestimating the threat

One of the biggest cybersecurity mistakes SMEs make is underestimating the threat landscape. Many business owners believe their company is too small to be a target. This is a dangerous misconception.

Cybercriminals often view small businesses as easy targets. They believe the company lacks the resources or expertise to defend itself against attacks. It's essential to understand that no business is too small to be targeted by cybercriminals. It's essential to be proactive when it comes to cybersecurity.

2. Neglecting employee training

When was the last time you trained your employees on cybersecurity? Small businesses often neglect cybersecurity training for their employees. Owners assume they'll be naturally cautious online.

However, the human factor is a significant source of security vulnerabilities. Employees can inadvertently click on malicious links or download infected files. Cybersecurity training helps employees:

• Recognizing Phishing Attempts
• Understanding the importance of strong passwords
• Know the social engineering tactics used by cybercriminals

3. Using weak passwords

Weak passwords are a common security vulnerability in small businesses. Many employees use passwords that are easy to guess. They also reuse the same password for multiple accounts. This can expose your company's sensitive information to hackers.‍

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

4. Ignore software updates

Failing to keep software and operating systems up to date is another mistake. Cybercriminals often exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to systems. Small businesses should regularly update their software to address known security vulnerabilities. These include operating systems, web browsers, and antivirus programs.

5. Lack of data backup plan

Small businesses don't always have a formal data backup and recovery plan. They may mistakenly assume that data loss won't happen to them. However, data loss can occur for a variety of reasons, including cyberattacks, hardware failures, and human error.

Back up your critical business data regularly. Test backups to ensure they can be successfully restored in the event of data loss.

6. No formal security policy

Small businesses often operate without clear policies and procedures. Without clear and enforceable security policies, employees may be unaware of critical information, such as how to handle sensitive data, or how to use company devices securely or respond to security incidents.

Small businesses should establish formal security policies and procedures and communicate them to all employees. These policies should cover aspects such as:

• Password Management
• Data processing
• Incident Report
• Remote Work Security
• And other security-related topics

7. Ignoring mobile security

With more and more employees using mobile devices for work, mobile security is becoming increasingly important. Small businesses often overlook this aspect of cybersecurity.

Implement mobile device management (MDM) solutions. These solutions enforce security policies on company-owned and employee-owned devices used for work-related activities.

8. Not monitoring networks regularly

SMBs don't always have the IT staff needed to monitor their networks and detect suspicious activity. This can lead to late detection of security breaches.

Install network monitoring tools or consider outsourcing network monitoring services. This can help your business quickly identify and respond to potential threats.

9. Lack of an incident response plan

When faced with a cybersecurity incident, SMEs without an incident response plan may panic. They also risk responding ineffectively.

Develop a comprehensive incident response plan. This plan outlines the actions to be taken in the event of a security incident. It should include communication plans, isolation procedures, and a clear chain of command.

10. Thinking they don't need managed IT services

Cyber ​​threats are constantly evolving. New attack techniques emerge regularly. Small businesses often struggle to keep up. Yet they believe they are "too small" to pay for managed IT services.

Managed services come in all package sizes. There are even some designed for SMB budgets. A managed service provider (MSP) can protect your business from cyberattacks. They can also save you money by optimizing your IT.

Learn more about managed IT services

Don't risk losing your business to a cyberattack. Managed IT services may be more affordable for your small business than you think. Call us today to schedule an appointment.

About Nexxo

Nexxo Computer Solutions specializes in providing IT and technology services to Quebec businesses. Its mission is to offer Quebec companies IT services tailored to their needs. Acting as an external IT department, it handles all of a company's IT tasks, allowing it to focus on its business activities. It achieves this by collaborating closely with its clients and putting their interests at the center of its concerns.