Why Small Businesses are Easy Targets for Hackers
A recent study by San Diego-based cybersecurity firm CyberCatch highlights the critical need for enhanced security measures among small businesses. The study, which scanned vulnerabilities in over 20,000 U.S. small businesses, revealed concerning results:
Over 30% of businesses lacked sufficient security safeguards, leaving them susceptible to exploitation.Nearly a third were vulnerable to spoofing attacks, where hackers impersonate legitimate devices to gain unauthorized access.28% were at risk of clickjacking, a technique that tricks users into clicking malicious links disguised as harmless elements. These findings underscore the inadequacy of relying solely on anti-malware software. Hackers can still employ phishing attempts or other methods to breach defenses and access sensitive data.
Here's how small businesses can strengthen their cybersecurity posture:
- Identify Critical Data: Locate and catalog your most valuable assets and data, prioritizing areas with the highest security needs.
- Implement Security Controls: Establish a layered defense with prevention, detection, and response mechanisms.
- Regular Testing: Conduct frequent vulnerability assessments across websites, software, and web applications to identify and patch weaknesses before attackers exploit them.
- Employee Training: Regularly train your staff on cybersecurity best practices. Remember, studies show human error contributes to a staggering 90% of security breaches
By implementing these safeguards, small businesses can significantly improve their resilience against cyberattacks and protect their valuable data, as well as that of their customers.
