The Top Cybersecurity Breaches SMBs Face

Small and midsize businesses (SMBs) are increasingly becoming prime targets for cyberattacks. Unlike large enterprises with dedicated IT security teams, SMBs often operate with limited cybersecurity resources, making them vulnerable to breaches that can result in financial losses, reputational damage, and regulatory penalties. This is particularly true for businesses in Western New York, including Buffalo, NY, where many SMBs rely on digital technology but may not have the necessary protections in place.

Understanding the most common cybersecurity risks can help SMBs take proactive steps to protect their businesses. Here are the top cybersecurity breaches SMBs face and how to mitigate them.

1. Failure to Update Software and Systems

One of the most common cybersecurity mistakes SMBs make is failing to update their operating systems, software, and security patches. Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in outdated systems, leading to data breaches and ransomware attacks. Many high-profile breaches have occurred simply because businesses didn’t apply available security updates.

The Fix: Enable automatic updates for all software and devices. Use patch management tools to ensure all systems stay current. Regularly check for updates on all business-critical applications.

2. Lost or Stolen Devices

Laptops, smartphones, and tablets are essential for business operations, but when lost or stolen, they pose a major security risk. If the device lacks encryption or remote-wipe capabilities, a thief can gain access to sensitive business data, customer records, or financial information.

The Fix: Require employees to use strong passwords and enable full-disk encryption on all devices. Implement mobile device management (MDM) solutions that allow remote wiping of lost or stolen devices. Employees should report missing devices immediately.

3. Weak Passwords and Lack of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Many SMBs still use weak or default passwords, making it easy for cybercriminals to gain access to sensitive accounts. Without multi-factor authentication (MFA), a single compromised password can expose an entire business network.

The Fix: Require employees to create strong, unique passwords for all accounts and implement MFA wherever possible. Encourage the use of password managers to securely store and generate credentials.

4. Phishing Attacks

Phishing remains one of the most common cyber threats to SMBs. Cybercriminals trick employees into clicking malicious links, downloading infected attachments, or sharing login credentials, giving hackers direct access to business networks.

The Fix: Conduct regular cybersecurity training to help employees recognize phishing attempts. Implement email security filters to detect and block phishing emails. Encourage employees to verify unexpected requests before responding.

5. Unsecured Remote Work Policies

With more employees working remotely, SMBs face increased risks from unsecured Wi-Fi networks, personal devices, and lack of VPN usage. Hackers often target businesses through weakly protected remote connections.

The Fix: Require employees to use company-approved VPNs when working remotely. Ensure that all remote devices have up-to-date security software and enforce strict remote work cybersecurity policies.

6. Lack of Data Backups and Recovery Plans

Ransomware attacks can cripple a business, locking owners out of critical files and demanding payment for their return. Without proper backups, businesses risk losing valuable data permanently.

The Fix: Implement regular, encrypted backups stored both onsite and in the cloud. Test recovery plans to ensure quick restoration of data in case of an attack. Keep multiple copies of backups to prevent loss.

Protecting SMBs in Western New York

Businesses in Buffalo, NY, and across Western New York must take cybersecurity seriously. Cyberattacks don’t just happen to large corporations—SMBs are often targeted precisely because they have weaker security defenses. Investing in proactive cybersecurity measures, such as system updates, MFA, employee training, and data backups, can make a significant difference in preventing costly breaches.

At MVP, we help SMBs in Buffalo and beyond strengthen their cybersecurity defenses. Want to know if your business is secure? Contact us today for a cybersecurity risk assessment!