If you assume that your small business is too insignificant to be targeted by hackers, you could not be more wrong. In fact, small businesses are often the prime targets for cybercriminals precisely because they are assumed to have weak security.
According to the National Cyber Security Alliance, 43% of cyber attacks target small businesses. And the average cost of a cyber attack for a small business is $84,000 – which can be devastating for a company that doesn’t have much in the way of reserves.
If you own a small business, it’s important to be aware of the dangers posed by hackers. By understanding the reasons why they target small businesses, you can take steps to protect your company and your data. Cybersecurity is an increasingly important concern for all businesses so don’t wait until it’s too late to take action.
Here are seven reasons hackers target small businesses:
1. Lack of Security Protocols
One of the main reasons why small businesses are targeted by hackers is because they often lack basic security protocols and measures. This can include anything from failing to update software and firmware regularly to not using strong enough passwords. Cybercriminals know that small businesses are less likely to have robust security systems in place, making them an easy target.
2. Access to Valuable Data
Another reason hackers target small businesses is because they usually have access to valuable data – such as customer credit card information and other sensitive data. This data can be used to commit identity theft or financial fraud, making it extremely lucrative for criminals.
3. Lack of Awareness
Many small business owners are simply not aware of the dangers posed by cyber criminals. They may think that their business is too small to be targeted or that they don’t have anything worth stealing. This lack of awareness can make small businesses a soft target for hackers.
4. Limited Resources
Small businesses often have limited resources when it comes to security. They may not have the budget to invest in robust security measures or the manpower to properly monitor their networks. This can make them an easy target for hackers who are looking for an easy score.
5. Dependence on Technology
In today’s world, small businesses are increasingly dependent on technology. This dependence can make them more vulnerable to attack, as they may not have the expertise to properly secure their systems. Hackers know that they can exploit this dependence to their advantage, making small businesses a prime target.
6. Lack of Recovery Plans
If a small business is hit by a cyber attack, it may not have the resources or the ability to recover quickly. This lack of resilience can make it an attractive target for hackers, as they know that the business may be forced to close its doors permanently if it cannot recover.
7. Poorly Secured Websites
Many small businesses have poorly secured websites – which can be a goldmine for hackers. This is because these websites often contain valuable data, such as customer information and financial data. Hackers can exploit these weaknesses to gain access to this data, or to plant malicious code that can be used to attack other users.
Overall, small businesses face a number of unique challenges when it comes to cybersecurity. They are often targeted by hackers because they lack basic security protocols, have access to valuable data, or are simply not aware of the dangers posed by cyber criminals. However, by taking steps to improve their security posture, small businesses can make themselves a much less attractive target.