Cybersecurity isn’t just for tech giants—it’s a must for all of us building businesses online.
Not long ago, a client called me in a panic. She had hired someone years ago to create her website, but hadn’t kept up with backups or access credentials. One morning, she woke up to find her site was completely locked down. It had been hacked, and because she wasn’t listed as the admin and had no recent backups, she spent thousands rebuilding everything from scratch. The emotional stress and loss of business momentum were completely avoidable.
If you think cybersecurity is only a concern for big corporations, think again; everyone is at risk.
Here’s how to take control of your digital safety—one smart step at a time.
The Top Cybersecurity Risks for Small Businesses
Most threats don’t start with a mysterious hacker—they start with simple oversights:
- Clicking on phishing emails that look real
- Using weak or recycled passwords
- Losing a device with client or business data
- Working on public Wi-Fi without protection
- Outsourcing web design but never having full admin access
These might seem small, but together, they can create major vulnerabilities.
Your First Line of Defense: Password Hygiene
The days of using your dog’s name and birth year are over. Use a password manager like LastPass or Nordpass to generate and store complex, unique passwords for each platform. Unlike browser-stored passwords, these tools encrypt your data and make secure sharing with team members easy.
Bonus Tip: Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for your email, social media, banking apps, and any tool that supports it. It’s a small extra step that adds a huge layer of security.
Backups = Business Insurance
If you’ve ever lost files due to a crash, you know the importance of backups. When it comes to your website, don’t rely solely on your hosting company.
I recommend:
- Cloud backups: Google Drive or Dropbox
- Website tools: UpdraftPlus or Jetpack for WordPress
- External backups: Keep a copy on an encrypted USB or SSD drive
Ideally, back up monthly—or weekly if your site changes frequently.
Beware of Phishing & Social Engineering
Cybercriminals are getting better at pretending. You might receive an email from what looks like PayPal or your client, but if something feels off, trust your gut. Always, hover over the email address to make sure it is legitimate.
Watch for:
- Misspelled URLs or sketchy grammar
- “Urgent” requests that push you to click fast
- Emails from unknown addresses pretending to be someone you know
Use tools like MailScanner or secure platforms like ProtonMail to filter risky messages.
Remember, Stop, Think, then Act. Responding too quickly to an email or text can cost you.
Protecting Your Email List and Business Data
If you manage customer info or an email list, treat it like gold.
- Use secure email marketing platforms (ConvertKit, Flodesk) with 2FA
- Don’t keep sensitive info in Google Sheets or open docs
- Review who has access to your business platforms regularly
Stay Informed with Trusted Cybersecurity Resources
Knowledge is one of the best defenses. These free tools help keep you updated:
- StaySafeOnline.org – Tips for small businesses from the National Cybersecurity Alliance
- Krebs on Security – In-depth investigative blog on digital threats
- Have I Been Pwned – Enter your email to see if your accounts were compromised
- CISA.gov Alerts – Government updates on known vulnerabilities
- Kim Komanda – Tips, tools, and tech advice
Final Thoughts: Confidence Through Preparedness
Cybersecurity isn’t about being paranoid—it’s about being prepared. You don’t need to do everything at once. Start with one thing this month: maybe that’s enabling 2FA, backing up your site, or setting up LastPass.
Create a recurring calendar reminder to check your digital security every quarter. You’ll feel more confident knowing you’ve taken control.
Have a cybersecurity story or question to share? I would love to connect with you.
