Cyber incidents at larger organizations grab the headlines, like the recent attacks on major UK retailers. However, small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are also targets for cyber criminals.
Around 40% of cyber incidents affect companies with fewer than 1,000 staff (source: Verizon 2024 Data Breach Investigations Report). For a business with limited resources and tight margins, the operational disruption, financial losses, and reputational damage can be catastrophic.
SMBs can be an attractive target for cybercriminals because they often lack dedicated security resources or a proactive cybersecurity strategy.
However, protecting your business doesn’t have to be expensive or complex. A few simple cybersecurity best practices can go a long way towards keeping you safe.
Top essential cybersecurity best practices for SMBs
1. Strengthen user access controls and password hygiene
Over 80% of breaches involve weak or stolen credentials. A single compromised password can be all cybercriminals need. To protect your business:
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Ensure everyone uses a strong, unique password for each account.
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Require multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible.
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Use password manager tools to reduce risky behaviors such as reusing passwords or writing them down on sticky notes.
2. Monitor compromised credentials and PII proactively
Cybercriminals trade credentials and personally identifiable information (PII) on dark web forums. At Cybercheck, our security professionals infiltrate these illicit networks to detect exposed credentials and alert you before cybercriminals can strike.
This gives you:
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Real-time risk reduction, as you’re alerted to compromised credentials before cybercriminals exploit them.
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Compliance support, helping you meet your security obligations under regulations such as NIS2 and DORA.
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Peace of mind, with the assurance that if your organization is at risk, you’ll be warned immediately.
3. Keep software and devices updated
Software updates fix vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit. Therefore:
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Enable automatic updates for your operating systems, browsers, and apps.
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Regularly review your network equipment, including routers and firewalls.
To minimize downtime, you can schedule updates monthly.
4. Educate and train your employees
Your employees are your largest attack surface. They’re also your first line of defense. Ensure everyone understands their role in keeping your organization safe by providing:
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Ongoing security awareness training, such as how to spot potential phishing scams.
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Phishing simulations and an open-door policy for reporting suspicious emails.
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Regular reminders about risks such as USB drops, tailgating, and suspicious email attachments.
5. Network security tips
Many managed providers offer network security as a service. For example:
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Firewalls and VPNs to protect your perimeter.
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Network segmentation so that if hackers breach your security, they can’t move laterally through your systems.
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Regular network traffic monitoring for early warning signs of suspicious activity.
6. Back up your data and test your recovery
If your organization is attacked, a rapid recovery can minimize the impact. To be prepared for an incident:
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Maintain encrypted, offline backups.
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Test the restoration of your data once a quarter at least.
Proactive cyber threat intelligence is now vital for any business
In today’s cyberthreat landscape, conventional anti-virus and cybersecurity tools are no longer enough, even for SMBs.
CTI and PII monitoring are now vital components of a proactive cybersecurity strategy. They help to reduce your risk of attack and build trust with your customers and partners. If an incident occurs, they can also help you respond faster and more effectively to minimize the impact.
Investing in CTI-driven security solutions can help your organization to anticipate, detect, and neutralize threats before they cause harm.
