enough, let alone trying to survive through the pandemic. It is difficult to process when a cyber-attack is taking place, and following that, all the things that go into reporting it. It’s a lot to handle. Your best option is to have protections put in place to avoid an intrusion of any sort. Prevention is possible. Let’s explore why small to medium-sized businesses are prime targets for cybercriminals, the common attacks used, and what protection options will best serve your needs.

Why Small To Medium-Sized Businesses Are The Ideal Targets:

One main reason that small to medium-sized businesses are appealing targets to cybercriminals is that they typically lack the security infrastructure that large businesses and corporations have in place. Many companies have limited time to devote to any cybersecurity and simply can’t afford professional IT solutions. With their gates wide open, cybercriminals jump at the opportunity to infiltrate and retrieve personal information or a desired amount of money to transfer.

The shift in remote and hybrid offices has created new opportunities for hackers to take advantage of new vulnerabilities and gaps in security. This doesn’t mean that you should get rid of remote workers or hybrid offices altogether. It simply means that you should become more aware of the cracks that can give way to attacks. What is astounding is that more companies have a higher concern about ransomware, data breaches, and major IT outages than supply chain disruptions, natural disasters, or even the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of any of these circumstances can vary from minimal to catastrophic.

One of the best things you can do as a business owner is be prepared and have preventative measures in place. Before you get to that step, you need to know as much information about cyberattacks and cybersecurity as possible. The more you know, the better you will feel putting preventative measures in place. Plus, if an attack does take place, being well versed in what is taking place will help you solve the issues more efficiently and proficiently.

Common Types Of Attacks On Small To Medium-Sized Businesses:

A cybercriminal can penetrate 93% of your company’s networks. With such a high number at risk, it’s surprising that more small to medium-sized businesses don’t invest in cybersecurity. In addition to that statistic, cybercrime has gone up 600% since the COVID-19 pandemic. We completely understand the financial strains at play with small businesses; however, being passive on cybercrime activity and failing to implement solutions to protect your business can lead to catastrophic events. 

What are the most common ways for cybercriminals to ruin your business? While cyberattacks are constantly evolving, there are 4 common types that owners of small to medium-sized businesses should be aware of: malware, viruses, ransomware, and phishing. Here are the definitions of each one:

Malware (i.e., malicious software) is known as an umbrella term referring to software intentionally signed to cause damage to a client, computer, server, or computer network. This can include ransomware and viruses.
Viruses are programs that are harmful and intended to spread from one computer to the next (as well as other connected devices). They are used by cybercriminals to gain access to your system.
Ransomware is a specific type of malware. It infects and restricts access to a computer or device until a ransom is paid. This will typically happen through phishing emails and exploiting unpatched vulnerabilities in your software.
Phishing is a type of cyberattack that everyone in your office who utilizes a work email should be trained on. It uses email or a malicious website to infect your machine with malware or it can collect your sensitive information.

Now that you know what type of attacks can likely happen to your business, what can you do about it?

Preventative And Protection Options For Your Needs:

Every business is different. Their needs will vary, especially when it comes to any IT-related services. If small to medium-sized businesses are looking for preventative and protective options, the best place to start is finding a managed service provider. What does your company gain from this option? You will now have access to dedicated security professionals that have the proper expertise needed to improve your unique cybersecurity. They will provide expert-level configuration of security solutions, which is exactly what you need.

A managed service provider tailors your needs to the proper services for protection. This means that you won’t be guessing whether certain applications or devices in place will be beneficial. You will most likely end up saving money if you hire the right provider that is looking out for not only your needs but also your wallet. They will deliver services such as network, application, infrastructure, and security with ongoing and regular support alongside active administration. As every business has its varying needs, your managed service provider will customize their services to provide the ultimate preventative measures and protection for you.

If you want more information regarding the impact of cybercrime on small to medium-sized businesses and service options with a managed service provider that will benefit you and your organization, contact us today. Regardless of your business size, the benefits of a long-term relationship with a knowledgeable and reliable provider are essential for creating a thriving company. RJ2 Technologies can provide you those resources and will work as an extension of your team to implement timely and quality solutions.

-Jeff Dann, jdann@rj2t.com, 847-303-1194 x 3444