As the digital landscape continues to evolve, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are constantly faced with new cybersecurity threats. With the increasing prevalence of cyberattacks, it's more crucial than ever for SMBs to take proactive measures to protect their data and digital assets. One such measure is the implementation of Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), a security model that requires all users and devices to be authenticated and authorized before accessing network resources.
Understanding the Cybersecurity Landscape for SMBs
Today, cyberattacks are a harsh reality that SMBs must grapple with. According to recent studies, nearly 50% of all cyber breaches impact businesses with fewer than 1,000 employees, and over 60% of SMBs were targeted by cyberattacks in recent years1. As cybercriminals become more sophisticated in their hacking methods, SMBs are at heightened risk of falling victim to ransomware attacks, data breaches, and other malicious activities.
Why SMBs are Prime Targets for Cyberattacks
Contrary to popular belief, SMBs are not less likely to be targeted by cybercriminals than their larger counterparts. There are several reasons why SMBs are enticing targets for hackers:
- Limited Resources: SMBs often have less robust security measures in place compared to larger corporations, making them an easier target for cybercriminals.
- High Value-to-Effort Ratio: SMBs often possess valuable data that can be exploited for financial gain, while presenting a relatively low barrier to breach due to their lack of stringent security infrastructure.
- Reduced Awareness and Protection: Many SMBs lack the resources and expertise to implement comprehensive cybersecurity measures, leaving them vulnerable to sophisticated cyberattacks.