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Why SMBs Can’t Afford to Treat Cybersecurity as an Afterthought

by | Aug 11, 2025 | Artificial Intelligence, Computer Maintenance & Repair, Cyber Insurance, Cyber Security, Data Protection, Data Security, Email Security, IT Managed Services, IT outsourcing, IT Repair, IT security, IT Solutions, IT Support, law firm IT solutions, Managed IT Services, Network Security

If you think your small or mid-sized business is too small to be a target, think again. Cybercriminals don’t discriminate—they automate. Their tools are scanning the internet 24/7, looking for any vulnerable system to exploit. If you’re online, you’re a target. And the scary part? Half of all cyberattacks today are aimed directly at small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs)—precisely because many aren’t prepared.

The Real Cost of a Breach for SMBs

Large corporations make the headlines, but SMBs often face the harshest consequences from a breach. According to industry studies, 60% of SMBs shut their doors within six months of a cyberattack. The cost isn’t just financial—it’s reputational, operational, and deeply personal.

  • Financial Impact: Recovery costs can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars.
  • Operational Disruption: Ransomware can halt operations for days or weeks.
  • Loss of Trust: Customers may hesitate to share data with you again.
  • Regulatory Fines: Non-compliance with data protection laws can lead to legal trouble.

The bottom line? Cybersecurity isn’t just about technology—it’s about business survival.

Where SMBs Are Most Vulnerable

SMBs often make the same cybersecurity mistakes, which hackers count on:

  1. Outdated software and systems – Unpatched systems are a hacker’s favorite entry point.
  2. Weak or reused passwords – Credential stuffing attacks thrive here.
  3. Lack of employee training – One phishing email is all it takes.
  4. No data backup strategy – Ransomware victims often pay because they have no recovery plan.
  5. Underestimating insider threats – Sometimes the risk comes from within.

To dive deeper into how these risks play out in real life, check out our recent blog post: Top 5 Cybersecurity Threats Facing SMBs in 2024.

Steps Every SMB Can Take—Starting Now

You don’t need a corporate-sized budget to strengthen your defenses. Here’s where to start:

1. Upgrade and Patch Everything

Make updating your systems as routine as locking the doors at night. Cybercriminals exploit known vulnerabilities—patching them is your cheapest defense.

2. Invest in Endpoint Protection

Modern endpoint protection platforms (EPPs) go beyond basic antivirus. They detect, block, and respond to threats in real-time, protecting every laptop, workstation, and mobile device in your business.

3. Train Employees Regularly

Your staff is your first line of defense. Phishing simulations, security awareness workshops, and clear policies can stop attacks before they start. Read: The Human Firewall: Why Employee Cybersecurity Training Matters.

4. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Even if credentials are stolen, MFA can stop attackers in their tracks.

5. Back Up Critical Data

Adopt the 3-2-1 rule: 3 copies of your data, on 2 different media, with 1 stored off-site or in the cloud.

The SMB Advantage—Agility

Unlike large enterprises, SMBs can adapt quickly. That agility can be a huge advantage in cybersecurity—if you use it. Instead of battling layers of bureaucracy, SMB leaders can:

  • Rapidly adopt new security tools.
  • Implement company-wide policies in days, not months.
  • Foster a culture of security from the top down.

Case in Point: When Preparedness Paid Off

One of our SMB clients experienced a phishing attack attempt targeting their payroll system. Because they had already implemented MFA, endpoint monitoring, and employee training, the attack failed. Instead of losing money and customer trust, they had a quick 15-minute cleanup and were back to business. This isn’t luck—it’s preparation.

Why Partnering with the Right IT Team Matters

As an SMB owner or manager, you’re juggling enough already—sales, HR, customer service, compliance. Cybersecurity may be vital, but it’s not always your core skill set. Partnering with a trusted IT provider:

  • Frees up your time to focus on growth.
  • Brings enterprise-grade security within your budget.
  • Provides 24/7 monitoring to catch threats before they spread.

See our article Why Managed IT Services Are a Game Changer for SMBs to learn how outsourcing can be your smartest move.

Ideas and Recommendations for SMB Leaders

Here are five practical, high-impact steps you can take this month:

  1. Schedule a free security audit – Identify your top vulnerabilities today.
  2. Update your incident response plan – Know exactly what to do before something happens.
  3. Host a company-wide security day – Make training engaging and memorable.
  4. Test your backups – Don’t assume they work—verify them.
  5. Review vendor security – Your partners’ weaknesses can become your problem.

Let’s Build Your SMB Cybersecurity Roadmap

At Great Lakes Computer, we specialize in protecting businesses exactly like yours. From preventative measures to rapid response, our team ensures your business stays online, secure, and trusted.

Ready to protect what you’ve built?