The Threats to Small Businesses

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

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”