Imagine a day without computers. How would your remote team communicate? How would you transfer data? How would you communicate with customers and vendors? If your office has experienced some minor connection issues, then you know how frustrating this experience can be.
In the event of a more critical situation, such as a cybersecurity attack, a minor issue can quickly escalate into a catastrophic event that causes significant downtime and even legal repercussions. In this blog, we'll look at the impact of a cyberattack, common mistakes to avoid and how you can best stay protected.
Cybersecurity Consequences
Here are just some of the consequences that can occur in the event of a cybersecurity attack:
- Data breaches
- Operational disruption
- Financial loss
- Reputational damage
- Loss of customer trust
- Legal consequences
- Intellectual property theft
- Identity theft
- Ransomware attacks
Because of the severity of these potential cyberattack consequences, few mistakes are as detrimental as a lapse in cybersecurity. A cyber breach compromises not only your data but also your clients’ data. Fines and litigation can occur, not to mention the loss of people’s trust.
SMBs are particularly vulnerable as they are becoming increasingly targeted due to their generally less robust security systems. The results can be devastating; in fact, as many as 60% of all small businesses go out of business after a data breach.
Cybersecurity Mistakes Businesses Make
Underestimating your threats, relying solely on your default security system, and not being prepared are some of the most common cyber mistakes organizations can make. Here are some key cybersecurity oversights to steer clear of:
Using free antivirus software: Lacks comprehensive protection needed for businesses.
Not being proactive: Waiting for breaches before taking action.
Not performing backups: Risking data loss without regular backups.
Weak password policies: Allowing weak or reused passwords.
Lack of employee training: Not educating staff on preventing and recognizing threats.
Ignoring software updates and patches: Leaving systems vulnerable by not updating.
Insufficient network security: Not using firewalls or secure Wi-Fi.
Poor data encryption practices: Failing to encrypt sensitive data.
Lack of incident response plan: Not having a clear, tested response plan.
As a business owner or manager, you have the power to prevent these mistakes. Ensuring robust cybersecurity is crucial for protecting your business from potential threats. Avoiding common pitfalls can significantly enhance your security and protect your company, employees and customers.
Get Our Top 5 Cybersecurity Tips for Businesses
How Managed IT Services Keep Your Business Protected
When it comes to protecting your business from cyber threats, being proactive is vital. Waiting for breaches before taking action can be detrimental. Instead, take the initiative to implement robust cybersecurity measures.
Partnering with a managed service provider (MSP) or fractional IT provider, such as Premier IT, can be highly beneficial for your business. By recruiting the support and expertise of our experienced IT professionals, you gain access to the most current and effective security strategies to safeguard your business from the consequences of a cybersecurity breach. This can include proactive monitoring, threat detection, data encryption, regular security updates, penetration testing and expert guidance to avoid potential risks.
The trusted team at Premier IT can offer all of these services and more, significantly enhancing your organization's overall security. Knowing that your cybersecurity is in safe hands gives you peace of mind and allows you to focus on your business operations.
Ready to get started? Schedule your Comprehensive Security Audit or Penetration Test with us and gain confidence in your company's cybersecurity.
Premier IT is a Minnesota based managed IT services provider with a dedicated IT support team that manages all your technology needs. We pay attention to the details so you can focus on what you do best. We provide technical consulting, hosted infrastructure, computer & network support, security, Microsoft support, repairs, network monitoring and more. If your small business needs reliable technical support, contact our team of experienced technicians and engineers.