The Small Business Email Threat Landscape

Email, because it touches almost everyone, is the most frequently used method to attack small businesses. In security parlance, we say it’s the #1 “threat vector.” Most businesses don’t realize how vulnerable they are. Here is the data that shows it:

📊 By the Numbers:

• 91% of all cyberattacks start with email

• 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses

• 60% of small businesses close within 6 months of a cyberattack

• $2.4 million - Average cost of a small business email breach

• 1 in 323 emails sent to small businesses is malicious

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The Harsh Reality:

Small businesses are the soft targets of the cyber world. Criminals know you:

• Don't have dedicated IT security staff

• Use default email settings

• Trust emails that look legitimate

• Can't afford to recover from a major breach

But here's the good news: The most effective email protections are also the simplest. You don't need a million-dollar security budget. You need 20 minutes and the right expertise.

Resources & References:

• FBI IC3 Report: "Business Email Compromise Losses Exceed $43 Billion Globally"

• Verizon Data Breach Report: "Email Remains #1 Attack Vector"

• Small Business Administration: "Cybersecurity for Small Business"

• NIST Framework: "Basic Email Authentication Guide"