Why Cybercriminals Target Small Businesses and How to Defend Against It

Small businesses are often targeted by cybercriminals due to their limited resources and lack of advanced cybersecurity measures. In fact, according to a report by CrowdStrike¹, cybercriminals more frequently target small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) than large companies. This is because SMBs are often seen as easier targets due to their lack of security resources.

The effects of cybercrime on small businesses can be devastating. These attacks can result in significant financial losses, damage to their reputation, and even the closure of the business. In fact, half of all small businesses report they have been the victim of a cyber attack ².

So, why do cybercriminals target small businesses? One reason is that small businesses often have fewer security measures in place than larger companies. This makes them an easier target for cybercriminals who are looking for vulnerabilities to exploit. Additionally, small businesses may not have the resources to invest in advanced cybersecurity measures, making them more vulnerable to attacks.

Small businesses in the not-for-profit and transportation sectors face more high- and critical-severity attacks than those in other industries ¹. This is because these sectors often deal with sensitive information such as personal data, financial information, and intellectual property.

So, how can small businesses defend themselves against cybercrime? Here are some tips:

1. Invest in cybersecurity solutions: Industry-leading cybersecurity solutions for SMBs are essential to stop advanced attacks. These solutions should include firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems.
2. Train employees: Employees should be trained on how to identify and respond to cyber threats. This includes how to recognize phishing emails, how to create strong passwords, and how to avoid downloading malicious software.
3. Update software regularly: Small businesses should ensure that all software is up-to-date with the latest security patches. This includes operating systems, web browsers, and other software applications.
4. Backup data regularly: Small businesses should backup all important data regularly. This will help to ensure that data can be recovered in the event of a cyber attack.

By following these tips, small businesses can help to protect themselves against cybercrime. Remember, cybercriminals are always looking for vulnerabilities to exploit. By investing in cybersecurity solutions, training employees, updating software regularly, and backing up data, small businesses can help reduce their risk of becoming a victim of cybercrime.

At Graxo, we understand the importance of cybersecurity for small enterprises. We offer a range of affordable cybersecurity solutions, including firewalls, antivirus software, VPN, MFA, backup solutions, and cybersecurity training. Our solutions are tailored to meet the unique needs of small enterprises and can help to improve their cybersecurity posture.