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Small Businesses Are Attacked by Hackers 3x More than Larger Ones

  • Writer: Nicole Baker
    Nicole Baker
  • Apr 18, 2023
  • 4 min read

Updated: Jan 18


Person typing on laptop, wearing fingerless gloves at night.


Many small businesses believe they are safe from cyberattacks, but that’s not the case. Hackers target companies of all sizes, not just the ones in the headlines. Every business, big or small, needs to make cybersecurity a priority.


A recent report from Barracuda Networks shows that small companies can still fall victim to hacks and cyber threats. After looking at thousands of organizations, they found that small businesses face serious IT security risks, with millions of emails putting them in danger.


Large corporations might seem like the main targets for cyberattacks, but small businesses are actually at greater risk. A recent study by Barracuda Networks found that companies with fewer than 100 employees are 350% more likely to face social engineering attacks. This is a serious issue that needs attention and action to keep businesses safe.


Being bigger doesn’t always mean being safer.


As technology advances, hackers are starting to see small businesses as attractive targets. A big payout with little effort is hard to resist, which leaves these companies open to cyber attacks aimed at making quick money.


Despite being more susceptible to cyber threats


Managing a small business often feels like an ongoing balancing act of allocating funds where they’re most needed. Though we know cybersecurity is critical, it can quickly become one of the last priorities when cash gets scarce at the end of each month and must be pushed to next month’s budget list instead.


Many small business owners don’t realize the risks of weak IT security. A basic antivirus program offers only limited protection. Now that cloud computing is common, businesses need several layers of security to use technology safely.


Cybercriminals know that small businesses are often less secure and easier to trick than large companies. This makes them attractive targets, as hackers can get big rewards with little effort.


For ambitious entrepreneurs


Even the lone wolf entrepreneur must guard against cyber theft; a hacker’s scorecard can include anything from credit card numbers to email addresses, which often wind up for sale on the Dark Web. From there it’s just an identity hijacking waiting to happen – so make sure you’re keeping your business safe!


Hackers are on the hunt for data

  1. Customer records

  2. Employee records

  3. Bank account information

  4. Emails and passwords

  5. Payment card details


Working at a small business could be the key to unlocking your dream job


Hackers see small businesses as valuable targets. These companies may be more open to cybercrime, and because many work with larger corporations—offering services like digital marketing, website management, or accounting—they can give hackers access to bigger rewards.


When vendors link their systems with clients, they might accidentally help hackers get into both companies at the same time. Even without these links, data breaches are always a risk.


Despite the considerable risks posed by ransomware


Over the past 10 years, ransomware has become a major cyber threat. This year, more than three-quarters of businesses surveyed have been hit by these attacks.

As ransomware attacks become more common, more victims are paying hackers for a “key” to unlock their data. In fact, 63% of companies now pay in hopes of getting their stolen information back.


Small businesses might not offer the big payouts of large companies, but hackers still target them because there are so many. The large number of small businesses gives cybercriminals a better chance of success.


The unfortunate truth is that when companies pay up after a ransomware attack, they are only fueling the cybercriminal machine. Payouts encourage more malicious actors to join in and target unsuspecting businesses – often small organizations without robust security systems in place.


Small businesses are often the unsung heroes of our world


Small business owners may not always focus on cybersecurity training for their employees. With so much attention on sales and operations, keeping everyone updated on how to protect against cyber threats can be overlooked, but it remains essential.


Employee training is often missed, but it is key to protecting networks from phishing and password risks. Without the right education, people can become the biggest security risk.


Cyberattacks are like vampires – they can’t enter without an invitation from a user. Phishing emails act as the unwitting host, making it easy for hackers to access data or networks that should remain secure.


Cyberattacks are like vampires


An email that seems safe can cause serious harm if someone opens it. Clicking a link or opening an attachment can install malware and start an attack, sometimes with severe consequences.


Employees are the first defense against online threats. Teaching them how to spot cyberattacks can be just as effective as using strong firewalls and antivirus software. Security awareness training is crucial for protection.


Protect your small business with affordable IT security services.


Unlock the power of technology for your small business today! Our cutting-edge consultations offer unbeatable prices and powerful protection from cybercrime, so you can confidently navigate modern digital challenges. Our team of experts is here to guide you. Don’t wait, Contact us today for a free consultation.

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