Cyberattacks don’t just happen to big banks and multinationals. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are now the #1 target for cybercriminals—because they’re often less protected and more likely to pay ransoms or suffer long downtimes.
Check out these scary facts:
This checklist outlines 10 often-overlooked cybersecurity essentials—why they matter, why you need them, and how to implement them today.
Why it matters:
Cybercriminals don’t need to “hack” their way in—they just buy stolen passwords on the dark web. MFA prevents access even if credentials are compromised.
Why you need it:
If you’re using cloud services like Microsoft 365, Xero, or CRM tools, a stolen password could expose customer data, financials, and IP.
How to get it:
Enable MFA across all business-critical platforms. Use apps like Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator, or hardware tokens for admins.
Why it matters:
Most attacks exploit known vulnerabilities that already have patches available. But if you delay updates, you leave the door open.
Why you need it:
Cybercriminals use automated bots to scan the internet for outdated systems. Even one unpatched machine can bring down your business.
How to get it:
Use a remote monitoring and management (RMM) tool to automate updates and get visibility on patch status across your network.
Why it matters:
Your users receive dozens of emails daily. One bad click on a phishing email can install malware, steal credentials, or launch ransomware.
Why you need it:
Security isn't just a tech problem—it's a people problem. Even the best firewalls can't protect against human error.
How to get it:
Implement short, quarterly training sessions. Use simulated phishing tests to measure real-world awareness and track improvement.
Why it matters:
Laptops, phones, and tablets are vulnerable—especially when used offsite. If one gets infected, it could give attackers access to your network.
Why you need it:
Remote and hybrid work environments have increased the attack surface. You need visibility and control over every device.
How to get it:
Deploy a modern endpoint detection and response (EDR) tool that can block threats in real time and alert your IT team to suspicious activity.
Why it matters:
If an attacker compromises a single account with full access, they can move laterally and take over your entire environment.
Why you need it:
Limiting access to what employees actually need reduces risk and makes it harder for attacks to escalate.
How to get it:
Review and audit permissions regularly. Implement “least privilege” access policies using your cloud tools or Active Directory.
Why it matters:
Ransomware doesn’t just encrypt your files—it goes after backups too. If your backups are online and unprotected, they’re vulnerable.
Why you need it:
Backups are your last line of defense. Without them, you may face permanent data loss or be forced to pay a ransom.
How to get it:
Use backup solutions with offsite storage and immutability (i.e., backups that can’t be altered). Automate daily backups and test restores monthly.
Why it matters:
Email is still the most common entry point for attacks. Basic spam filters miss cleverly disguised threats like business email compromise (BEC).
Why you need it:
A single phishing email that looks like a supplier invoice or CEO request can lead to wire fraud, credential theft, or malware.
How to get it:
Use a secure email gateway or advanced threat protection solution that scans for malicious links, attachments, and sender impersonation.
Why it matters:
Unsecured Wi-Fi and default router credentials make it easy for attackers to access your network—or use it as a launching pad.
Why you need it:
Many SMBs forget to change default settings, update firmware, or segment networks—especially for remote sites or retail stores.
How to get it:
Change default admin passwords, enable WPA3 encryption, and update router firmware regularly. Set up guest networks for visitors.
Why it matters:
Misconfigured cloud services (like open Google Drive folders or shared Dropbox links) are one of the top causes of data breaches.
Why you need it:
Cloud platforms make collaboration easy—but they also make it easy to accidentally expose sensitive files to the public.
How to get it:
Conduct regular audits of your Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Dropbox, or AWS configurations. Use admin tools to restrict sharing, enforce encryption, and monitor activity.
Why it matters:
When a breach happens, time is critical. The faster you respond, the less damage is done. But most SMBs don’t know who does what in a crisis.
Why you need it:
Even small breaches can lead to downtime, compliance issues, and reputational damage. A tested plan ensures you don’t panic under pressure.
How to get it:
Create a simple, step-by-step response plan that includes containment, communication, recovery, and reporting. Run a tabletop simulation annually.
At Addcom, we specialize in delivering comprehensive IT solutions tailored for SMBs, ensuring your business stays secure, efficient, and resilient. Here's how we support your cybersecurity needs:
Managed IT Services: Our proactive Managed IT Services ensure secure, reliable, and high-performing technology infrastructure, minimising downtime and maximising user experience with expert support and monitoring.
Managed Desktop Services: We ensure that every workstation in your organisation is optimised, secure, and fully supported, so your team can focus on what matters—growing your business.
Managed Network Solutions: Stay connected with a fast, secure, and resilient network. Our Managed Network Services provide end-to-end network monitoring, security, and optimisation, ensuring seamless collaboration and uninterrupted business operations.
Procurement Services: Equip your business with the right technology at the right price. We streamline sourcing, purchasing, and deployment, ensuring you get cost-effective, high-quality IT solutions tailored to your needs.
Leadership as a Service: Our experienced leadership teams provide expert strategic guidance, helping you align technology with business goals without the cost of full-time executives.
Hardware as a Service (HaaS): Access the latest technology with no upfront costs. Our HaaS model provides flexible, subscription-based hardware solutions, including maintenance and support, to keep your business running smoothly while optimizing your IT budget.
Cloud & Infrastructure Services: Benefit from best-in-class storage, network, and server technologies without the overhead of managing them yourself. Our team handles your entire cloud environment for unparalleled efficiency and performance.
Cybersecurity doesn't have to be overwhelming. It just has to be done right. Contact us today.