Why Small Businesses Need a Cybersecurity Strategy
Cybercrime is relentless—and small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly in the crosshairs. In fact, 41% of small businesses were targeted by cyberattacks in 2023, up from 38% in 2022 and just 22% in 2021.
At Integrated Technology Systems, we understand that while the risks are rising, so are the opportunities to safeguard your business. A well-designed cybersecurity plan doesn’t have to be out of reach. With the right framework, tools, and support, your business can build a resilient defense against cyber threats.
Use our updated cybersecurity checklist to pinpoint potential vulnerabilities and improve your company’s overall security posture.
Top Cybersecurity Threats Facing Small Businesses
Before tackling the checklist, it’s important to understand the threats. Today’s cybercriminals don’t discriminate—small businesses face the same types of attacks as large corporations. The most common threats in 2024 include:
- Ransomware
- Security misconfigurations and outdated systems
- Credential stuffing
- Social engineering and phishing
Unlike larger enterprises, small businesses often lack the resources to recover quickly. A cyberattack can be financially devastating—with the average data breach costing SMBs $3.31 million.
Your Cybersecurity Checklist
1. Understand Your Environment
Cybercriminals are after valuable data—and they work fast. The average breakout time for a cyberattack in 2023 was just 62 minutes. Knowing your environment and preparing in advance can help you act quickly when it matters most.
- Map Your Devices and Data: Know where sensitive information lives and what devices, systems, and applications access it.
- Secure Physical Assets: Encourage employees to lock devices and sensitive files. Desktops, laptops, and servers should never be left unattended or unsecured.
- Plan for a Breach: Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. Build in procedures for rapid response, and revisit your plan often to keep up with evolving threats.
2. Assess Your IT Resources
Maintaining a secure infrastructure requires time, talent, and experience.
- Review Staffing and Skills: If your in-house IT team is overextended or undertrained in cybersecurity, you’re not alone—59% of companies report being understaffed in this area.
- Consider Managed Services: Partnering with a provider like Integrated Technology Systems can fill gaps in coverage, bring specialized expertise, and free up internal resources.
3. Train Your Employees
Human error remains the leading cause of cyber incidents. From phishing to accidental data leaks, employees can unknowingly expose your business to serious risk.
- Implement Regular Training: Equip your team with the knowledge to recognize threats, avoid suspicious links, and report unusual activity. 72% of organizations now include security training in their workforce strategy.
- Promote a Security-First Culture: Your employees can be your first line of defense—when they’re properly trained and aware.
4. Enforce Strong Password Policies
Weak or reused passwords are a major security liability.
- Use Complex, Unique Passwords: Require passwords that are long, contain a mix of characters, and are never reused.
- Update Regularly: Enforce password changes at least every 90 days.
- Secure Network Access: Always use strong passwords for routers, firewalls, and all entry points into your network.
5. Develop and Maintain Personnel Security Policies
Employee turnover and role changes are inevitable, but they can also introduce security gaps if not handled properly.
- Create a Clear Security Policy: Define expectations for data handling, access control, and reporting responsibilities.
- Adapt as You Grow: Update your policies regularly to reflect changes in staff, technology, and threat trends.
Let Integrated Technology Systems Be Your Cybersecurity Partner
Small businesses don’t have to face cybersecurity challenges alone. At Integrated Technology Systems, we provide tailored solutions to help protect your business from cyber threats—whether that means training your staff, managing your infrastructure, or responding to an incident.
Let’s secure your systems, data, and future—together. Contact us today to learn more about our cybersecurity services for small businesses.
Integrated Technology Systems
6 East 45th Street, Suite 400
New York, NY 10017
212-750-5420
https://www.itsnyc.com
