MAPS for SMBs: A Clear Path to Cybersecurity Readiness

 MAPS for SMBs: A Clear Path to Cybersecurity Readiness

By Dara Gibson

  For small and midsized businesses, cybersecurity is no longer optional… it’s the frontline defense against financial collapse, compromised customer trust, and crippled business operations. CrowdStrike recently published “The State of SMB Cybersecurity Survey Report”, which emphasized the increased adversarial actions towards these business units. “Despite their growing awareness of cybersecurity threats, many SMBs remain underprepared and caught in a dangerous gap between recognizing cyber risks and implementing effective responses,” CrowdStrike Report.

  According to the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity, small businesses make up 99% of Arizona total businesses. Of which, 85,491 are considered microbusinesses, which means the businesses comprised of under 50 employees. Microbusiness segments are quickly becoming the most affected by successful malware campaigns because of the shortfalls in cost effective tools, training, and cybersecurity strategy execution. Providing simplified solutions, such as MAPS, businesses will be able to make practical adaptations to the current programs and begin to positively lay the groundwork for security strategies. MAPS is an acronym for a few of the fundamental cybersecurity controls that can significantly reduce risk and exposure to common cyber-attacks.

·       M: Multifactor Authentication is a process that requires two or more forms of identification to access the system or account. By implementing this control, it is much harder for unauthorized users to access the system.

·       A: Awareness Training is a process of educating the employees about the current cyber threats and the best practices to remain secure such as phishing simulations and building a security conscious culture.

·       P: Password Management is a practice that emphasizes the importance of secure storage, organization and handling of unique passwords. It allows people to protect their digital identity and the sensitive data of the organization.

·       S: Software Updates are important to ensure that the operating system and the applications are patched regularly to correct vulnerabilities and prevent exploitation from the hackers.

       
These four components may address some of the gaps within the cybersecurity risk management programs. Other areas that can assist in reducing risk exposure include outsourcing managed services, increased usage of AI-powered toolsets, and improved usage of cyber insurance. Enhancing relationships with trusted partners will allow SMBs to have confidence in the cybersecurity program.

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