Small Businesses Face 43% of Cyberattacks: How Entrepreneurs Can Protect Themselves
With small businesses being the target of 43% of all cyberattacks, it’s critical for entrepreneurs to take action and protect their companies from these growing threats. Chris Noles, founder and CEO of Atlanta-based Beyond Computer Solutions, recently joined ASBN’s Small Business Show to discuss essential cybersecurity strategies. Click the link to watch the full video interview and learn how to safeguard your business.
Beyond Computer Solutions: Affordable IT and Cybersecurity for Small Businesses
Since founding Beyond Computer Solutions in 2000, Noles has been on a mission to provide small businesses with the same level of IT services, cybersecurity protection, and technology that large enterprises rely on, but at a predictable, flat-rate cost that fits smaller budgets. His goal is to equip small businesses with the tools they need to defend against cyberattacks, just like big corporations.
Why Small Businesses Are a Prime Target for Cyberattacks
Noles points out that the fact that 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses should serve as a wake-up call. Many small businesses lack the financial resources or the necessary technology to protect themselves, making them easy targets. The most common entry point for attackers? Untrained employees unknowingly granting access.
How to Protect Your Business from Cyber Threats
According to Noles, employee training is one of the most effective defenses against cyberattacks. Beyond Computer Solutions offers a 45-minute cybersecurity training program, complete with a certificate-printing final exam. As Noles says, “A trained employee becomes a human firewall,” significantly reducing the risk of attacks.
Cybersecurity Assessment and Action Plan
For business owners concerned about their vulnerability, Beyond Computer Solutions provides a comprehensive cybersecurity assessment covering three critical areas:
- Assess: Evaluate your current IT system to identify strengths and weaknesses.
- Address: Fill any gaps in your IT infrastructure if needed.
- Maintain: Ensure ongoing protection and coverage, similar to an insurance policy.
In the event of a cyber incident, Beyond Computer Solutions is always on retainer, ready to respond before it’s too late.
Common Cyberattack Tactics
- Phishing Attempts: Hackers send malicious links that, once clicked, can encrypt your entire system and demand a ransom.
- Wiring Fraud: Cybercriminals pose as real estate agents or attorneys, requesting wire transfers at the last minute.
- Personal Information Breach: Hackers steal personal data, threatening to release it unless a ransom is paid—a serious risk for law firms and medical offices.
The Cost of a Cyberattack
Recovering from a cyberattack costs an average of $600,000. While cyber insurance is becoming more common, it often doesn’t cover incidents where an employee clicks a malicious link. Once this happens, hackers add your business to a list of easy targets for future attacks.
Entrepreneurs must act now to secure their businesses against cyber threats. Contact Beyond Computer Solutions today for an expert evaluation and cybersecurity plan tailored to your needs.