In 2025, cybersecurity is no longer just an IT concern—it’s a business-critical priority. Small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) have become prime targets for cybercriminals. Notably, this is because they often lack the robust security infrastructure of larger enterprises.
If you think your company is “too small” to be attacked, think again. Cybercriminals are more strategic than ever. SMBs are seen as easy entry points or quick wins. For instance, in 2021, 82% of ransomware victims were businesses with under 1,000 employees. By 2023, SMEs faced about 43% of all cyberattacks.
Threat 1. Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS)
Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) has revolutionized the ransomware landscape by commoditizing attacks. Cybercriminals now sell or lease ransomware kits on the dark web, allowing even novices to launch sophisticated attacks with minimal effort. Moreover, RaaS platforms like LockBit, BlackCat, and Clop are increasingly targeting SMBs due to their limited security resources.
Why it matters to SMBs:
- Many SMBs lack strong backups or recovery plans, making them more likely to pay ransoms.
- Paying doesn’t guarantee full recovery, and it can encourage future attacks.
- Expanding data regulations mean SMBs risk severe penalties if breaches are disclosed.
What you can do:
- Back up your data regularly—both on-site and in the cloud.
- Test your recovery process often to ensure it works.
- Create an incident response plan focused on ransomware.
Threat 2. Phishing 2.0 and AI-Generated Scams
Phishing scams have evolved into highly sophisticated attacks powered by artificial intelligence. For example, attackers now use AI tools to craft hyper-personalized emails, texts (smishing), and even voice messages (vishing). These messages mimic trusted individuals or organizations with uncanny accuracy.
Why it matters:
- AI-generated scams often bypass traditional spam filters, making detection harder.
- Messages feel personal and timely, increasing the likelihood of employee errors.
- Attackers scrape social media profiles and online data to tailor phishing attempts.
What you can do:
- Train employees to verify unexpected messages, even from known names.
- Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all accounts.
- Deploy tools like DMARC, SPF, and DKIM to guard your email systems.
Threat 3. Supply Chain Attacks
Supply chain attacks exploit vulnerabilities in third-party vendors or software providers as backdoors into a business’s systems. Increasingly, SMBs are targeted because they rely heavily on SaaS tools without thoroughly vetting their security measures.
Why it matters:
- A breach in one vendor can impact multiple companies simultaneously.
- Your data, operations, and even customers may be exposed.
- Attackers leverage supply chain vulnerabilities for large-scale disruptions.
What you can do:
- Keep a list of all vendors and their access levels.
- Regularly check their security measures and compliance certifications.
- Require breach notifications from your partners.
Threat 4. Shadow IT and Unsecured Devices
Shadow IT refers to employees using unauthorized devices or software without IT approval. While convenient for quick tasks, these tools often lack proper encryption or safeguards. Additionally, remote work has exacerbated this issue by increasing reliance on personal devices.
Why it matters:
- Sensitive information may be stored in unsecured locations like personal drives or public cloud services.
- IT teams cannot protect what they cannot see, leaving vulnerabilities unnoticed.
- Unmanaged devices can serve as entry points for malware or ransomware attacks.
What you can do:
- Use endpoint management tools to monitor all connected devices.
- Set clear IT policies and educate employees about risks.
- Implement mobile device management (MDM) solutions and cloud access security brokers (CASB).
JetSoftPro’s Checklist for Cybersecurity for SMBs
You don’t need a Fortune 500 budget—but you do need a plan. Here’s a clear checklist to start with:
1. Employee Training
You can run phishing tests or hire a technical partner like JetSoftPro to conduct them. Regular phishing simulations help test employee awareness and teach them how to react in dangerous situations. Additionally, employees must learn how to spot social engineering and AI-generated scams. To maintain vigilance, keep awareness programs ongoing and ensure employees stay updated on evolving threats.
Read: Cybersecurity for employees in 2024-2025: an awareness that protects your business
2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Enable MFA across all platforms to add an extra layer of security. Use apps or physical tokens for authentication to prevent unauthorized access. This simple yet effective measure significantly reduces the risk of credential theft.
3. Regular Security Audits
Conduct vulnerability scans annually to identify weaknesses in your systems. Evaluate risks in third-party relationships, as vendors can be entry points for cyberattacks. Regular audits ensure your defenses are up-to-date and aligned with current threats.
4. Secure Backups
Back up your data regularly—both offsite and in the cloud—to protect against ransomware attacks. Test your recovery processes frequently to ensure they work effectively during emergencies. Secure backups are critical for minimizing downtime and data loss.
5. Incident Response Plan
Define clear roles and procedures for handling cyber incidents. Prepare for scenarios like ransomware attacks, data breaches, and vendor-related issues. A well-documented response plan ensures swift action and reduces potential damage.
6. Vendor Risk Management
Vet all third-party providers thoroughly before granting access to your systems. Ensure vendors comply with your security standards and require breach notifications as part of your agreements. Managing vendor risks protects your business from supply chain attacks.
7. Automated Tools
Deploy malware scanning tools to detect threats proactively. Set up web application firewalls (WAF) to block malicious traffic and add endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems for real-time monitoring of suspicious activity.
Cybercriminals are evolving. Your business should too. With the right knowledge and tools, you can stay ahead of the threats.
At JetSoftPro, we help businesses stay secure. Whether you need secure software development or a full cyber strategy, we’re here to help. For companies that want to take a structured approach, we offer the JSP Security Framework—a methodology that assesses, strengthens, and maintains your cyber defense posture. Learn more about this in our CEO interview here.
It includes:
- Risk Identification
Find weak spots in your apps, infrastructure, and endpoints. - Compliance Readiness
Stay aligned with ISO 27001, NIST, and other standards. - Operational Resilience
Build systems that recover quickly and keep your business running. - Optimized Tools & Processes
Use the best tools—without adding complexity.
Want to assess your cybersecurity risks? Let’s talk!
