Small businesses targeted by cybercriminals and hackers – protect your data

TLDR:

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting small businesses, putting their livelihoods at risk through devastating cyberattacks. Small businesses, like G&J Pepsi, are vulnerable targets for ransomware attacks, leading to financial losses and potential business closures. The cost of cyberattacks on small businesses is high, both financially and psychologically.

Article Summary:

Brian Balzer, head of cybersecurity at G&J Pepsi, experienced a cyberattack by the Conti ransomware group, a notorious Russian hacking group. Balzer and his team worked tirelessly to combat the attack, fearing for their company’s survival and the livelihoods of its 2,000 employees. The attack cost G&J around $25,000 and highlighted the vulnerability of small businesses to cybercriminals.

Jamie MacColl, a research fellow at RUSI, emphasized the devastating impact of cyberattacks on small businesses, with more than half of them not surviving such attacks. Cyberattacks are not just financial disasters but also cause significant psychological stress and trauma to business owners and employees.

The article underscores the importance of better laws, policing, and support for small business owners facing cyberthreats. While G&J was able to recover from the attack, the financial and emotional toll was significant, showcasing the ongoing threat posed by cybercriminals to small businesses.