When small businesses fall victim to a cybersecurity attack, the fallout can be devastating. While some small business owners may argue that cyber criminals have bigger fish to fry, they forget that their business can be easier to infiltrate and steal customer data than a larger business with a specific IT department. With fewer resources and capital than a large corporation, cybersecurity attacks can force small businesses to shut down.

Why are small businesses attacked?

Small businesses tend to be the targets of cyberattacks because they are the easiest to infiltrate. If a business lacks the proper cybersecurity, it is left vulnerable to attackers seeking money, data, and sensitive information. The information they steal from your business can be sold on the dark web or even be used for more sophisticated attacks. This means, no matter the type of business you are running, your business could easily become a target of cyber criminals.

What methods do criminals use?

Malware is one of the most common tactics criminals use when targeting a small business. Using malicious software, criminals seek to damage the business's computers and network in order to steal sensitive information. Once they have these credentials, they are able to continue infiltrating your business further or move on to more sophisticated attacks on another business.

How to protect your business

Train your employees

Training your employees on cybersecurity safety is essential in protecting your business. A large portion of cyberattacks can be traced back to human error within the company. Providing regular cybersecurity training for each of your employees equips them with the tools they need to spot cyber threats such as phishing emails. Remind your employees of the importance of strong passwords and locking devices when they are away from their desk.

Update your software

Regularly updating your devices, software, and router provides you with the most updated patches and security. Allowing the update to lapse can create vulnerabilities in your network.

Secure your Wi-Fi network

Create a name and password for your Wi-Fi network and router that does not easily identify your business. Next, encrypt your network with the strongest security possible, currently Wi-Fi Protect Access 3 (WPA3). Creating a guest Wi-Fi may also be helpful; it means fewer people will have your main network password and anyone with malware already installed on their device will not corrupt your primary network and devices.

Conduct a risk assessment

Evaluate the potential vulnerabilities within your business. Where is your sensitive data stored and who has access to it? Does everyone within the company use unique, strong passwords? Are logged-in computers left unattended? Once you have conducted this analysis, learn how to strengthen your vulnerabilities. Conduct these evaluations on a regular basis to continue evolving your security plan.

For more resources on how to protect your small business from cybersecurity threats, visit https://www.fcc.gov/communications-business-opportunities/cybersecurity-small-businesses.