Are you aware that cybersecurity threat is common to SMEs just like it is in multi-national corporations? Attackers focus more on SMEs as they don’t have proper mechanisms to guard themselves against cybersecurity threats. Most of the employees of Small and Mid-sized Enterprises are not highly skilled in managing cybersecurity challenges. Cybersecurity threats are causing a lot of losses for SMEs in 2021. As SMEs address cybersecurity in 2021, they need to understand what they are facing.
The following are five cybersecurity challenges facing SMEs in 2021:
1. Phishing Attacks.
Most of the SMEs are familiar with phishing attacks, but they end up being victims. Phishing emails lure SMEs’ employees into opening and reading the new email, but they introduce malware into their system during the process. Phishing emails appear to be sent by a trusted recipient, and the moment you click on them, you unleash a ransomware attack. The malware blocks the SMEs from accessing their networks until they pay the ransom. Employees need training on how to spot phishing emails and handle cybersecurity for SMEs effectively.
2. DDoS Attacks.
Distributed Denial of Service attacks targets SMEs’ websites. DDoS slows down the websites hence causing a loss worth more than $25,000 per hour. The attack may last 6-24 hours. SMEs should avoid DDoS attacks by laying down an effective DDoS mitigation and response plan.
3. Malware.
Malware is attackers’ programs installed in SMEs’ computer systems to carry out third-party objectives without the administrators’ authorization. Malware includes spyware, Trojans, virus, bots, and adware. SMEs can protect their computers against malware attacks by installing firewalls, anti-virus, and end-to-end protection.
4. SQL Injection.
SQL injections execute data theft and interfere with the proper functioning of SMEs’ websites. Cyber attackers send malicious SQL commands to SMEs’ database servers, affecting their inputting codes for logins and registration pages.
5. BYOD Technology vulnerability.
Today, remote working has made BYOD a common phenomenon among SMEs’ workers. The embracing of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) technology at the workplace by employees exposes SMEs. Some employees are very reckless and use unsecured devices despite the laid down cybersecurity measures. The unsecured devices may pass malicious programs to the companies’ computer systems and networks.
As SMEs address cybersecurity in 2021, they should consider partnering with RiskAware to have all challenges on cybersecurity for SMEs solved. RiskAware Inc. specializes in cyber assessment, advisory, training, and virtual CISO services. With all the knowledge they provide, why wouldn’t SMEs reduce the risk of cybersecurity threats? It is, therefore, time for SMEs to get the necessary remedies for cybersecurity challenges.
