99.9% of all businesses in the US are considered small businesses with 500 employees or fewer. A recent survey found they employ over 56.4 million workers. They also bring in over $16.2 trillion in revenue. There’s a common cybersecurity myth that, because of their size, cybercriminals won’t attack them. The truth is that they’re one of their most frequent targets. Read on to learn what to look for to find the right cybersecurity services for your small business needs.
Expertise
Look at the provider’s experience first. Check for a proven track record of protecting businesses like yours from cyber threats. Ask if they have up-to-date specializations. See if they’re following all relevant regulations such as:
- ISO/IEC 27001
- SOC 2
- PCI DDS
- HIPAA
- GDPR
These ensure they’re meeting all the legal requirements for current security standards. The right ones also indicate a level of expertise in your field.
Services
Do an IT security audit of your business before you start looking for a cybersecurity provider. Where do your weaknesses lie, and how can you protect against them? Use questions like that to consider what services you need. A few of the most critical types of cybersecurity services for small business needs include:
- Network security
- Endpoint security
- Data security
- Vulnerability assessments
- Threat intelligence
- Penetration testing
- Incident response
- Cybersecurity training
Ask for an explanation of their full list of the services they provide. Check their technology to see if they’re using the most up-to-date tools.
Reputation
A cyber attack can be the final domino that topples a successful business. Poor reputations can also topple cybersecurity providers. Look at customer reviews, testimonials, and case studies. Ask for references and speak to past or existing clients. This also helps you spot red flags about the service provider. Heed warnings if they show up over and over again.
Customer Service
Your technology is vulnerable to attack at all times, so you need a cybersecurity provider that’s always ready to respond to threats. Find one with 24/7 tech support or on-site staff. They should be available whenever you have a question or concern. They should also be working proactively behind the scenes. This means conducting continual assessments of your cybersecurity network.
Cost
One of the most common business tips is that you have to spend money to make money, and it’s true. 60% of small businesses fail within six months after a cyberattack. This makes cybersecurity too important not to invest in. Make it part of your budget and business strategy. Get an accurate quote for how much you’ll spend over your entire contract. Look into their pricing structures as well. Go for the provider that gives you the best value instead of the cheapest option. Avoid ones that try to hide extra fees in long contracts.
Where to Find Cybersecurity Services for Your Small Business
Finding cybersecurity services for your small business begins by identifying what services you need. Choose the provider who can provide them but also has the best experience, reputation, customer experience, and value. Voice and Data Inc. is a full-service telecommunications broker that’s been in business since 2006. We aren’t bound to any specific carrier and offer unbiased recommendations. Contact us for cybersecurity services today.
