Cybersecurity isn’t just a concern for large corporations. Increasingly, small and midsize businesses (SMBs) are becoming prime targets for cybercriminals. Many small businesses overlook the importance of having a robust cybersecurity strategy, and hackers know this, making them easy prey. In today’s digital landscape, SMBs must recognize that they are just as vulnerable to cyberattacks as larger enterprises.
Here are some key statistics that highlight the growing cybersecurity threats faced by small businesses:
1. 46% of All Cyber Breaches Impact Businesses with Fewer than 1,000 Employees
According to Verizon’s 2021 Data Breach Investigations Report, nearly half of all cyber breaches target small businesses with fewer than 1,000 employees. This percentage has steadily increased over the past few years. For instance, a study from Symantec revealed that in 2015, 43% of cyberattacks targeted businesses with 250 or fewer employees, compared to 34% in 2014.
The reason cybercriminals target smaller businesses is clear: they often have weaker defenses and less robust security protections in place compared to larger enterprises. Cybercriminals find these businesses easier to penetrate, and by targeting numerous smaller companies, they can collect smaller, more frequent payoffs without drawing significant media or law enforcement attention.
2. 61% of SMBs Were Targeted by Cyberattacks in 2021
A staggering 61% of small and midsize businesses were the target of a cyberattack in 2021. While not all of these attacks were successful, the sheer volume of targeted businesses underscores the growing threat landscape. This data highlights how commonly cybercriminals focus on SMBs, knowing they often lack the sophisticated defenses of larger organizations.
3. Malware Is the Most Common Cyberattack Aimed at Small Businesses, Accounting for 18% of Attacks
Malware remains the most common form of cyberattack targeting small businesses, accounting for 18% of all attacks. This is followed by phishing (17%), data breaches (16%), website hacking (15%), DDoS attacks (12%), and ransomware (10%), according to a March 2022 survey. Each of these attack vectors presents unique challenges to SMBs, from stealing sensitive data to disrupting business operations.
4. 82% of Ransomware Attacks in 2021 Targeted Businesses with Fewer than 1,000 Employees
Ransomware attacks are increasingly shifting toward smaller businesses. In 2021, 82% of ransomware attacks targeted businesses with fewer than 1,000 employees, with 37% of those attacks hitting companies with fewer than 100 employees. Cybercriminals are turning away from high-profile mega-targets in favor of smaller companies, as these businesses often have fewer resources to defend against attacks and are less likely to involve law enforcement or media attention.
The most common entry point for these ransomware attacks is through Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) compromise, where attackers gain access via stolen administrator or user passwords. Implementing password managers and enforcing strong password policies are critical tools in protecting against RDP compromises and preventing ransomware attacks.
What Does This Mean for Small Businesses?
The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks on SMBs make it clear that cybersecurity can no longer be an afterthought. Small businesses must proactively protect themselves by implementing comprehensive cybersecurity strategies that cover both technical defenses and employee awareness.
How LANConnect Systems Can Help
At LANConnect Systems, we understand the unique challenges small businesses face when it comes to cybersecurity. Our team of experts provides tailored IT solutions to help safeguard your business from cyber threats. From data encryption and secure network solutions to employee training and phishing simulations, we ensure your business is equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to stay protected.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—secure your business today.
Contact LANConnect Systems Today: 888-907-6080
Visit Us: 186 Grove Street, Franklin, MA 02038
Website: www.LANConnectSystems.com
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