Have you ever felt that cybersecurity seems a bit daunting or maybe something only big corporations need to worry about? Well, it’s time to move this topic to the top of your to-do list because cybersecurity is more critical than ever, regardless of business size.
With October being Cybersecurity Awareness Month, there’s no better time to start thinking about how to protect your business from cyber threats. Here are 5 reasons why cybersecurity services should be part of your business plan this year.
1. Cyber Attacks Are Expanding Their Reach
Cyberattacks are a threat to all sectors, not just large corporations. Schools, nonprofits, and government infrastructure have all been targets as cybercriminals become more sophisticated. For small-to-medium-sized businesses, the threat is inevitable, making robust cybersecurity essential.
Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities across industries, including healthcare and financial services. The Colonial Pipeline attack, which disrupted U.S. fuel supplies, is just one example that underscores the need for businesses to strengthen their defenses regardless of industry.
2. Small Businesses Are Easy Targets
The irony of small businesses (SMBs) neglecting cybersecurity is that nearly half of all cyberattacks target them precisely because they lack advanced security measures. In fact, a recent study found that only 14% of small businesses could defend themselves against such attacks.
Many small business owners underestimate these risks. Investing in cybersecurity can provide essential protection and resilience against these threats.
3. Employees Need Cybersecurity Education
Around 80% of cyber crimes are preventable, but many businesses lack basic cybersecurity knowledge. Up to 97% of people fail to recognize phishing emails, one of the most common cyber scams. Regular training sessions can empower employees to identify threats and promote a culture of vigilance.
Investing in cybersecurity awareness and specialized training is crucial for protecting a company and building customer trust.
4. Cloud Computing Adds Security Challenges
The shift to remote and hybrid workforces in 2020 accelerated the adoption of cloud-based solutions, which offer benefits but also introduced new security risks. Cloud security has proved to be more complex due to multiple access points and diverse devices.
To mitigate these risks, businesses should implement strategies like encryption, security audits, and multi-factor authentication, and collaborate with cybersecurity services to protect their cloud infrastructure.
5. The High Cost of Cyber Attacks
The average cost of a data breach in 2024 is 9.36 million U.S. dollars. Many businesses underestimate the financial impact and lack a budget for protection. Beyond immediate losses, attacks can result in fines, legal fees, and damaged reputations.
Investing in cybersecurity can mitigate these risks.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month Is Here
With Cybersecurity Awareness Month upon us, there’s no better time to prioritize your business’s security. This initiative serves as a reminder of the importance of cybersecurity and encourages businesses to take action. It’s an opportunity to evaluate your current security practices, identify areas for improvement, and implement new strategies.
Here’s just a few ways you can make Cybersecurity Awareness Month count:
- Educate your employees on cybersecurity best practices and the importance of being vigilant online.
- Conduct a security audit to identify any vulnerabilities in your systems and processes.
- Review and update your company’s security policies, including password protocols and data backup procedures.
- Invest in cybersecurity services, such as regular vulnerability assessments and threat monitoring, to protect your business from potential cyber-attacks.
Robust Cybersecurity Solutions: AxiShield
AxiaTP offers a robust and holistic cybersecurity solution, AxiShield is designed to not only protect your company but also educate your employees on avoiding potential threats. AxiShield can be customizable to the needs of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), featuring automated reporting, dashboards, and streamlined management so that you can see the value of your investment at any time.
Don’t leave your business’s security to chance. Set up a meeting with us today to learn more about our cybersecurity services and receive a complimentary cybersecurity risk assessment from our cyber experts.
