June 13, 2023

5 Common Cybersecurity Threats Small Businesses Face

As more businesses continue to digitize their operations, it’s important to recognize that they are at an increased risk of falling prey to cybersecurity threats. These threats can have devastating consequences, including data breaches, financial losses, and even permanent business closure. In this blog post, we’ll discuss five common cybersecurity threats that small businesses face and offer some tips on how to protect against them.

Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks are one of the most common types of cyber threats that small businesses face. They involve an attacker posing as a trustworthy entity to deceive a victim into revealing sensitive information, such as login credentials, credit card numbers, or other personally identifiable information. Phishing attacks can be launched through emails, social media messages, or text messages. To prevent phishing attacks, small businesses should educate their employees on how to identify and avoid them, as well as implement email filters and other security measures to block suspicious messages. IP Partners offer email filtration systems to help protect your business and your employees from these attacks.

Password Attacks

Password attacks involve an attacker trying to guess or steal a victim’s login credentials to gain access to their accounts. Small businesses are often targeted because employees may use weak or reused passwords. To prevent password attacks, small businesses should implement strong password policies, including using unique and complex passwords and implementing two-factor authentication. Two-factor authentication is another service IP Partners can implement for your business to prevent password attacks.

Malware

Malware is any type of software that is designed to harm or infiltrate a computer system. Small businesses can become infected with malware through malicious downloads, attachments, or website visits. To prevent malware attacks, small businesses should use antivirus software, implement a software update policy, and limit employee access to unsecured websites and downloads.

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a victim’s files, rendering them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. Small businesses are often targeted because they may have weaker security measures in place. To prevent ransomware attacks, businesses should regularly back up their data and keep their security software up to date. IP Partners provide secure off site backup systems that can be accessed by your organisation in the event of an emergency or breach. This significantly reduces the amount of down time your business will need to take in the event of an attack and makes the attackers attempts for ransom a lot less viable.

Insider Threats

Insider threats occur when an employee or contractor with access to a business’s systems intentionally or unintentionally causes harm to the company. Small businesses can prevent insider threats by implementing access controls, monitoring employee behaviour, and providing ongoing cybersecurity training. Cyber security training is another service that IP Partners can provide to your employees to help reduce the risk of insider threats.

Small businesses are at an increased risk of falling prey to cybersecurity threats. By understanding the common threats they face, and implementing appropriate security measures, small businesses can reduce their risk and protect their valuable assets. It’s important to remember that cybersecurity is an ongoing process, and small businesses should regularly assess their security position and adapt as necessary to stay protected.

For more information visit our website at https://www.ippartners.com.au/. To speak with a professional with over 7 years’ experience in this space, call (08) 7200 6080.

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