FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist
Small businesses often operate under the illusion that their size makes them less appealing targets for cybercriminals. However, this misconception is not only false, it can lead to devastating consequences. The reality is that cybercriminals are increasingly shifting their focus to small businesses specifically due to their low investment into cybersecurity.
“Small business owners cannot think their business is too small to be hacked.” — Monique Becenti, Product Marketing Manager at Zimperium
It would be inaccurate to say that small businesses are indifferent to cybersecurity, yet there’s a tendency among them to downplay its importance. Despite a wealth of information and startling statistics readily available online, many small-scale enterprises still underestimate the risks associated with cyberattacks.
Verizon’s 2022 Data Breach Investigations Report says that some small businesses are extremely vulnerable to malware, ransomware, brute-force attacks, and social attacks — putting some of them out of business entirely.
Learn more: How Xobee can safeguard your business against scammers, viruses, malware, and more
🎥 Source: PCMag
The Cost of Complacency
This complacent attitude is understandable, but complacency is the difference between your small business struggling and thriving. Cybersecurity threats, while potentially as harmful as physical ones, don’t always present an immediate, visible danger. It takes the right foresight, and big-picture thinking to truly understand and prevent the danger that poor cybersecurity poses. It’s easy to understand how leaving a door unlocked overnight can cost your company money, but great business minds understand that poor website security or data protection can shutter your business.
A cyberattack can be financially crippling for a small business. According to Business News Daily, the average cost of a cyberattack for small businesses is $2.98 million, a sum that can spell the end for many small enterprises.
More Than Just Money
The impact of a cyberattack extends beyond financial loss. Small businesses often suffer damage to their reputation, which can be even more challenging to repair. Customers lose trust in a company that fails to protect their sensitive data, leading to a decline in business, legal troubles, and costly fines. Additionally, the disruption caused by an attack can lead to significant downtime, further affecting the business’s ability to operate and generate revenue.
Invest in Xobee, Invest In Your Company’s Future
Investing in cybersecurity is not just about buying the latest software; it’s about adopting a proactive approach to protect your business. Simple steps such as regularly updating software, training employees on cybersecurity best practices, and implementing strong password policies can significantly reduce the risk of a cyberattack. These measures are not just cost-effective; they are essential in building a resilient business that can withstand the evolving threats of today’s online business world.
For small businesses, the question is not whether they can afford to invest in cybersecurity, but whether they can afford not to. The cost of a cyberattack far outweighs the investment in preventive measures. In today’s digital age, cybersecurity is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for the survival and success of any business.
For more information on how to protect you and your business, contact one of our highly skilled technicians today.
Xobee Consulting now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.
Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks
