Why Small and Mid-Sized Businesses (SMBs) Are the New Prime Targets for Cyber Attacks

Written By Hina Riaz

Small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly becoming prime targets for cyberattacks in 2025. This trend is driven by a combination of their growing digital footprint and perceived vulnerabilities compared to larger enterprises. Fortunately, Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) are stepping up to provide SMBs with enterprise-grade cybersecurity protection at a cost that aligns with their budgets. 

Why Are SMBs Targeted More Frequently? 

1. SMBs Represent a Large and Attractive Attack Surface 

Nearly 43% of all cyberattacks target SMBs, a staggering proportion that underscores how threat actors view these organizations as lucrative and vulnerable targets. The increasing digitalization of SMB operations, including cloud adoption and remote work, expands their attack surface, making them more exposed. 

2. Lower Cybersecurity Preparedness 

Only about 14% of SMBs are adequately prepared to face cyberattacks. Many SMBs operate with outdated security technology or no cybersecurity solutions at all—20% report having no security technology. This lack of preparedness makes SMBs an easier target than well-defended large enterprises. 

3. Human Error and Credential Theft 

Human error accounts for over 95% of cybersecurity breaches in SMBs. Weak password practices, lack of multi-factor authentication (MFA), and insufficient employee training lead to vulnerabilities that cybercriminals exploit. Additionally, stolen credentials are responsible for around 30% of data breaches affecting SMBs, making them an outlet for cybercriminal activity. 

4. Financial Impact and Disruption Potential 

Despite being prime targets, SMBs often lack the financial resilience to recover from attacks. For example, 60% of SMBs struck by cyberattacks go out of business within six months. The average cost of a cybersecurity incident for SMBs varies widely but can be devastating, ranging up to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Phishing and ransomware attacks continue to be the leading threats, with ransomware hitting 82% of businesses under 1,000 employees. 

5. Sophistication of Attacks on SMBs is Increasing 

Cybercriminals are using advanced techniques, including AI-driven phishing and malware campaigns, making SMBs vulnerable to highly sophisticated attacks without the corresponding defense capabilities. 

How MSSPs Provide Enterprise-Grade Protection at an Affordable Cost 

1. Cost-Effective Access to Expert Cybersecurity Services 

MSSPs give SMBs access to cybersecurity expertise and technologies that would otherwise be too costly or complex. Instead of hiring expensive in-house teams, SMBs can leverage MSSP resources for a predictable subscription fee, often lower than building and maintaining their own security operations. 

2. 24/7 Monitoring and Incident Response 

MSSPs provide continuous network and endpoint monitoring, allowing for real-time threat detection and faster incident response, minimizing damage and downtime. This constant vigilance helps SMBs respond immediately to threats they might otherwise miss. 

3. Advanced Threat Detection Powered by AI and Automation 

Using artificial intelligence and machine learning, MSSPs enhance threat detection accuracy and reduce false positives. This technology ensures SMBs can defend against modern, sophisticated attacks without dedicating extensive internal resources. 

4. Comprehensive Security Solutions 

MSSPs offer layered security solutions tailored to SMB needs, including: 

  • Email and web filtering to combat phishing 

  • Implementation and management of strong access controls like multi-factor authentication (MFA) 

  • Regular vulnerability assessments and patch management 

  • Endpoint protection and network security controls 

5. Employee Training and Awareness 

MSSPs educate SMB employees about cybersecurity best practices, particularly around phishing and social engineering, addressing the human factor that accounts for the majority of breaches. 

6. Compliance and Risk Management Support 

MSSPs help SMBs navigate increasingly complex regulatory environments by providing compliance monitoring and reporting, reducing the risk of costly fines. 

Conclusion 

Small and mid-sized businesses have become prime targets for cybercriminals due to their expanding digital footprint and often insufficient cybersecurity defenses. However, partnering with a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) offers SMBs access to enterprise-grade cybersecurity solutions tailored to their needs and budgets. 

By leveraging MSSPs for continuous monitoring, advanced threat detection, employee training, and risk management, SMBs can significantly reduce their cyber risk, ensure business continuity, and safeguard their growth in an increasingly hostile cyber environment. 

Protect Your SMB Today with CyberSecOp 

Secure your business with CyberSecOp’s tailored MSSP solutions designed specifically for small and mid-sized businesses. Stay protected without breaking your budget. 

CyberSecOp assists organizations with Cyber Security and Privacy Consulting Services, providing services such as Cyber Security Program, Data Privacy Security Program, and Cyber Security Assessment services based on the following: NIST, ISO 27001, GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, PCI, CMMC, GLBA amongst others. Don’t risk regulatory fines. Stay compliant with CyberSecOp Security Compliance and Cyber Incident Response Services. For More Information Call 866-973-2677

CyberSecOp an award winning cybersecurity consulting company, Click here to find out more.

Hina Riaz
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