Why Should My Company Worry About Data Breaches?

Data breaches are a major cybersecurity concern because they can ruin a company’s reputation, cost millions of dollars, and paralyze businesses for several days. Here’s why companies of all sizes should worry about data breaches:

Why Should You Care?

Unfortunately, small and medium businesses are one of the preferred targets for cyber criminals: They account for 60% of targeted attacks, according to a report released by Symantec. While large companies typically have multiple lines of defense to prevent a data breach, small and medium institutions are far more vulnerable.

Data breaches can seriously hurt a company’s reputation. A study published by KPMG reveals that 19% of customers would stop trusting and shopping from a retailer that has experienced a breach, which also represents a big hit on sales. Could your company afford to lose almost one-fifth of its clients?

If you answered “no”, you should care about data breaches for the same reason why people purchase car insurance: You don’t know if something bad is going to happen, but you want to prepare for the worst because the consequences could be devastating.

How Data Breaches Happen

One of the most reputable security companies in the world, AVG made a list of data breach dangers that every business should pay attention to. Here are just a few of them:

Malware

Malware attacks can spread fast and infect an entire network in the blink of an eye. It’s a common mistake to think that these attacks only target big companies. Small and medium businesses are vulnerable, too, and they need software solutions to defend themselves against ransomware.

Phishing

Spear phishing emails are becoming more sophisticated as cyber criminals reportedly use social networks to research their potential victims. With this method, people are manipulated to expose sensitive information or install malicious files without noticing.

Out of Date Software

All software ages. Windows XP was considered a cutting-edge system when it was released in 2001, but today it’s obsolete. In order to protect your company against data breach threats, you have to work with your IT department to research the market, optimize your infrastructure, and make sure you’re using up-to-date software.


At MicroAge, our experienced team offers multi-vendor IT solutions comprised of hardware, software, and services. We understand the IT challenges that many businesses face, and we have the expertise to help you save money, secure your data, and optimize your resources and achieve your business goals. Find a MicroAge location near you.