Protecting Your Small Business with Cybersecurity Measures

Cybersecurity, using measures like proxies and anti-viruses, is crucial when starting a business. Studies have shown that cyberattacks on small businesses are becoming more common.

Around 30% of attacks are attributed to external attackers and malicious insiders. We explore several expert tips on protecting your small business. Lastly, we look at how you can enhance cybersecurity measures.

The Need for Better Cybersecurity

In a recent study, 73% of small business owners reported that they experienced cyberattacks in 2023. Cybersecurity is becoming more important for companies. However, hackers and cybercriminals are also stepping up their game. As such, you should take all the measures possible to keep your business out of the hands of people and organizations who want to harm you.

Why are Small Businesses More Vulnerable?

In the last year, 29% of this study’s respondents stated they experienced a security breach. That’s 1% more than the 28% that stated they experienced no cyberattack. People might believe that large businesses have better “rewards” if breached. However, there are various reasons why cybercriminals will instead target small businesses. Some of these reasons are:

• They’re less likely to take legal action. Businesses with less than 50 employees often don’t have the resources to track and find hackers. That also means they have less chance of trying to take legal action.
• They have fewer resources to protect themselves. Small companies generally have strict budgets, so they often can’t spend as much on cybersecurity, making them ideal targets.
• They’re ideal for hackers with less advanced technology. Hackers who don’t have the technology to take on big companies find small ones the ideal targets.
• They have less cybersecurity knowledge. Many small business owners don’t have the know-how on cyber threats and security measures.
• They’re used as a gateway to larger, partnered businesses. A small company can partner with a big one to help them improve their marketing. However, hackers also often use them as a gateway to target the largest businesses.

Top Cybersecurity Measures for Small Businesses

Luckily, small companies can take various measures to help protect against cyber threats. Many of these methods, like proxies and anti-viruses, are affordable and won’t break the business’ bank to implement.

Updated Software and Antivirus

Every business should invest in secure antivirus and firewall software. You might believe your business is too small for hackers to bother with, but you would be surprised. Sometimes, you’re not the original target but still caught up in an attack. Further, ensure the software you use is up to date, as it helps secure your network.

Secure and Back-Up Sensitive Data

Secure sensitive data by regularly backing it up in an offsite location or encrypted cloud storage. It’ll help ensure you don’t lose important information if cybercriminals introduce viruses into your system. You can also further protect sensitive data by restricting access to it to those employees who need it.

Monitor and Control Wi-Fi Networks

Always add safety measures to protect your Wi-Fi network. You should password-protect it and use a router/wireless access point (WAP) to conceal the network name. You can also restrict the Wi-Fi and block certain IPs and websites. It helps ensure employees don’t accidentally access unsafe websites. A proxy is one of the best ways to help control your Wi-Fi network’s traffic and security.

Employees Awareness

In the study, around 65% of businesses experiencing cyberattacks stated they’ll start implementing employee training. That’s because making your employees aware of the danger is one of the best preventative measures. Around 16% of all cyberattacks begin with phishing attempts, while around 15% start with scams or frauds. By training employees to be aware of how these tactics look, you help reduce the chances of them accidentally falling for it.

Use Proxy Servers

Proxies are one of the best tools for small business owners. Various types are available, and packages are available to fit any budget. Proxies have several reasons why they’re ideal for your cybersecurity plan:

• Protect your privacy. Proxy servers stand between you and the internet, providing security to online activities. If hackers try to follow your digital footprint to hack your servers, it’ll only lead them to the proxy server.
• Filters and monitors your access control. These servers can block malicious websites and help prohibit other unsafe ones. It boosts your security perimeter and blocks malicious code from infecting your servers.
• Balances your network’s load. The server can distribute incoming traffic across multiple networks. It helps prevent DDOS attacks and similar issues.
• Cache content. Caching frequently visited websites enables you to use less bandwidth and latency when online. As such, you minimize your direct interactions with online websites.

Stay Safe in the Digital Landscape

Small businesses should take every possible measure to ensure they’re safe. They’re often prime targets for cybercriminals. That’s because they’re more vulnerable than large companies with plenty of resources. Our advice will help you enhance your business’s cybersecurity plan using proxies and other methods to prevent becoming a cyberattack victim.