NCET Biz Tips: Cybersecurity for Small Businesses; Dangers and Outlooks

Logan Lathrop, Dr. David Croasdell

Over the past eight months, we have been researching the current cybersecurity climate specifically for small to medium-sized enterprises  (SMEs). This research has shown a somewhat alarming trend; as larger companies get harder to attack, attackers are now focusing their attention on SMEs, and the attacks themselves are more targeted and damaging than ever before, with many attacks leading to small businesses having to close down completely. All of this is, of course, happening at a time when most small businesses are transitioning to teleworking solutions or having increased the use of digital tools to stay competitive in an ever-evolving market. Current governmental regulations are very specific to large companies, and there is virtually no current support system in place to help small businesses with this challenge.

The addition of digital tools is vital to the growth and competitiveness of SMEs. Yet, a 2018 survey conducted by Deloitte showed that 38% of SMEs cited cybersecurity concerns as the number one reason for not expanding their use of digital tools. Since small businesses account for two-thirds of net new jobs and account for 44% of U.S. economic activity (SBA), it is more important than ever to focus on cybersecurity for SMEs and, in turn, help them thrive.

The proposed solution is through an expansion of each state's National Guard entities to help small businesses with optional training and assessments. However, since this isn't a program that is currently in place, there are still steps that small businesses can take to stay safe in this challenging environment. Regular assessments, employee training, and knowing how to respond to an attack are all things that most small businesses can easily employ. 

Some topics covered will include:

  • The current trends of attacks on SMEs

  • The damages associated with an attack occurring on your business

  • Current support for SME's provided by the government

  • How to use assessments and training to prevent attacks

  • How to securely accommodate the increase in teleworking

  • Learning the "low hanging fruit" of things to do to keep your businesses safe

  • What to do in the event of an attack on your business

We will also be introducing information regarding the proposed solution of utilizing the National Guard to assist SMEs with their cybersecurity climate. A brief survey will be introduced to gauge interest in the model.

Please join us on August 17th, where we will explain why SMEs are being targeted more, what the government is or isn't currently doing to assist SMEs with this problem, and how you can best prepare your business for the potential dangers ahead.

Learn about cybersecurity for SMEs at NCET's Biz Cafe on August 17th; NCET is a member-supported nonprofit organization that produces educational and networking events to help people explore business and technology. More info at www.NCETcafe.org

Dr. David Croasdell is an Associate Professor of Information Systems at the University of Nevada, Reno.

Logan Lathrop is a member of the Nevada Air National Guard and an incoming J.D. candidate at Harvard Law School

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