This month we discuss essential security protocols for SMEs. Putting some basic cyber safegaurds in place for your business is vital to protecting your money, your data and operations.
SMEs are just as likely—if not more so—to be targeted by cybercriminals, while big companies make headlines for massive data breaches, SMEs often fly under the radar, making them prime targets due to typically weaker defenses.
If you're an SME owner or manager, cybersecurity might seem like a daunting or expensive task. The truth is, with the right knowledge and a few essential practices, you can significantly reduce your risk and protect your business, employees, and customers.
Read on for a step by step guide on how to reduce the risks.
1. Understand the Risks
Before implementing solutions, it’s crucial to know what you’re up against. Common threats facing SMEs include:
- Phishing Attacks – Deceptive emails that trick employees into revealing sensitive information or downloading malware.
- Ransomware – Malicious software that locks access to your data unless a ransom is paid.
- Data Breaches – Unauthorised access to sensitive business or customer information.
- Insider Threats – Unintentional or malicious actions by employees that lead to data loss or exposure.
Knowing these threats helps shape your security strategy and employee training.
2. Educate Your Employees
Your first and often most vulnerable line of defense is your team. Cybersecurity awareness training is non-negotiable. Key training topics include:
- Recognising phishing and social engineering attempts
- Creating strong, unique passwords
- Understanding the importance of software updates
- Safe internet and email use
Many attacks succeed because of human error—empowered employees can stop them before they start.
3. Implement Strong Password Policies
Use strong, unique passwords for all systems and require two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. Consider using a password manager to simplify this process for your team.
Pro tip: Disable default passwords on all devices and systems. Hackers often exploit unchanged factory credentials.
4. Keep Software and Systems Updated
Software developers regularly release updates that fix security vulnerabilities. Keeping your operating systems, apps, antivirus software, and devices up to date is one of the easiest yet most effective ways to secure your business.
Set updates to install automatically whenever possible.
5. Back Up Your Data Regularly
Having regular, automated backups ensures your business can recover quickly from ransomware or data loss. Follow the 3-2-1 backup rule:
- 3 copies of your data
- 2 different storage media (e.g., external drive and cloud)
- 1 copy stored offsite or in the cloud
Test your backups regularly to make sure they work.
6. Use Firewalls and Antivirus Software
Install firewalls on your network and devices to prevent unauthorised access. Reliable antivirus and anti-malware tools should also be part of your standard setup. For cloud-based services, ensure your provider has robust security controls in place.
7. Control Access to Data and Systems
Limit access based on role—only give employees access to the data and systems they need to do their jobs. This principle of least privilege helps reduce the risk of internal errors and data exposure.
8. Have a Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan
No system is 100% secure. Create a clear response plan for handling incidents like data breaches, ransomware attacks, or account compromises. Your plan should cover:
- Who to contact (internal team, IT provider, legal, etc.)
- Steps to contain and mitigate damage
- How to notify affected customers or partners
- How to restore systems from backups
Regular drills can help ensure your team knows what to do under pressure.
9. Secure Mobile Devices and Remote Work
With the rise of remote and hybrid work, mobile devices are often overlooked weak points. Ensure mobile devices used for work have:
- Encryption
- Password protection
- Remote wipe capabilities
Use VPNs for secure remote access and require strong authentication for any external access to company systems.
10. Work with a Trusted IT Partner
You don’t have to go it alone - work with us! Having us as your partner means you will receive support tailored to your organisation in a format that suits you. We can help with staff training and monitor your systems 24/7.
Final Thoughts
Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complex or expensive—but it does have to be consistent. By implementing these essential practices, SMEs can defend against most common threats and build trust with their customers and partners.
Remember: when it comes to cyber threats, being proactive is always cheaper—and less damaging—than reacting after an attack.