Small businesses can be easy targets for online attacks. You may not have big security teams or many tools, so attackers try the weakest entry points.
In this article we will talk about seven Issues small businesses face with online security.
Phishing and social engineering
Phishing is when someone sends fake emails or messages to trick your staff. These messages ask for passwords or money. They can look real and come from people you know.
If one person clicks, the attacker can get into your systems. So you should teach your team to spot fake messages. Several small businesses use email filters to block risky mail.
Ransomware
Ransomware is a program that locks your files and asks for money to unlock them. For a small business this can stop work for days or weeks.
Therefore try to back up your files often and keep one copy offline or offsite. Practice restoring files so you can get back to work without paying a ransom.
Weak passwords and no MFA
Many people use the same simple password for many accounts. If one password leaks, attackers try it everywhere. So use a password manager so people do not reuse passwords.
Turn on multi‑factor authentication (MFA) for all important accounts. MFA stops most account hacks even if a password is stolen.
Poor patch management
Old software has known security holes. If you do not update, attackers use those holes to get in. Turn on automatic updates when you can.
Also remove software you do not use. Check devices often so you do not leave easy openings.
Cloud misconfigurations
Cloud services help you work from anywhere but wrong settings can expose files. Simple mistakes like open storage or wide permissions are common.
Review who can access what and set strict defaults. If your team uses chat or voice tools, check their settings too.
In case your team uses Discord here for information sharing, check its server and channel permissions carefully to prevent unauthorized access to files and messages.
Meeting and collaboration tools
Many teams use video apps for meetings. Wrong meeting links or open recording settings can leak data. Make sure meetings are not open to the public.
Limit who can start or share recordings. You can check your Zoom settings and keep meeting links private.
Insider risks
Sometimes the problem comes from inside the company. People can share files by mistake or keep access they no longer need.
Use role‑based access and remove old accounts quickly. Watch for unusual activity and make it easy for staff to report mistakes without fear.
This article is paid content. It has been reviewed and edited by the Eastern Eye editorial team to meet our content standards.
