Top 5 Small Business Cybersecurity Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Cybersecurity threats are no longer just a concern for large corporations. In fact, 43% of cyberattacks now target small businesses. Why? Because many small businesses assume they’re too small to be noticed, and that’s exactly what makes them vulnerable.

Let’s break down the top 5 cybersecurity mistakes small businesses often make — and what you can do to prevent them.

1. Thinking “It Won’t Happen to Us”

Many small businesses underestimate their value to cybercriminals. But every business — no matter the size — holds data that can be stolen, sold, or exploited.

How to avoid it:

• Shift your mindset. Assume you're a target.

• Invest in basic protections like antivirus, firewalls, and secure backups.

• Make cybersecurity a priority from day one.

2. Weak Password Practices

Using easy-to-guess passwords like “123456” or reusing the same password across multiple accounts is one of the most common — and dangerous — mistakes.

How to avoid it:

• Require strong passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.

• Use a password manager to generate and store secure passwords.

• Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible.

3. Lack of Employee Training

Your employees are your first line of defence — and also your biggest risk. One click on a phishing email could lead to a breach.

How to avoid it:

• Run regular cybersecurity awareness training.

• Teach employees how to spot phishing, suspicious attachments, and spoofed emails.

• Simulate phishing tests to keep your team sharp.

4. No Regular Data Backups

Imagine losing all your files to a ransomware attack or accidental deletion. If you’re not backing up data regularly — and securely — you’re taking a huge risk.

How to avoid it:

• Set up automated, encrypted backups.

• Follow the 3-2-1 rule: Keep 3 copies of your data, on 2 different media types, with 1 off-site.

• Test your backups to make sure they actually work when needed.

5. Ignoring Software Updates

Outdated software is full of known vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals exploit these every day to gain access to systems.

How to avoid it:

• Enable automatic updates for operating systems, apps, and firmware.

• Replace or upgrade unsupported software.

• Use centralized patch management if you’re managing multiple devices.

Protect Your Business the Smart Way

Cybersecurity doesn’t need to be complex or expensive. Avoiding these 5 common mistakes can drastically improve your security posture.

Need help evaluating your current security setup or training your staff? We can help you assess risks, implement safeguards, and build a plan that fits your business and budget.

Let’s talk about securing your business — contact Solve IT today