Despite decades of phishing attacks stealing information and bringing financial devastation to countless people and organizations, these online attacks continue to grow in number and sophistication. As people become more dependent on the internet, they trust it and the information they get from it far more than they should.

While it’s easy to blame cyberattacks on sophisticated hacking, the truth is that many attackers rely on social engineering — a craft of deception designed to manipulate people into giving up sensitive information or access. The scary part? It’s not just high-tech companies that get targeted, it’s all of us.

Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) tools are revolutionizing the way small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) operate, offering unparalleled convenience and scalability. But behind this ease lies a growing risk: cybersecurity vulnerabilities that could threaten a business’s future.

From cloud solutions to email services to VoIP, technology underpins every aspect of running modern businesses. However, the very technology that drives business forward also tends to expose another critical aspect of business operations to risk: data.

Cybercrime is more sophisticated and persistent than ever, putting small businesses at significant risk of attack. The new year offers a fresh start, and what better way to begin than by prioritizing your business’s cybersecurity? Below are seven actionable resolutions to help you protect your data, your customers, and your reputation in the coming year.

Data is the lifeblood of businesses, as it fuels operations, facilitates communication, and provides valuable insights for strategic decision-making. However, data is also vulnerable to various physical and digital threats. Natural disasters, cyberattacks, hardware failures, and human error can all lead to data loss or corruption.

Online shopping offers unmatched convenience, but it also comes with risks. Cybercriminals ramp up their efforts during this time of year, targeting holiday shoppers with scams, phishing attacks, and fraudulent deals. The good news? You don’t have to be a tech expert to shop safely online.

Ransomware attacks have become a significant threat to businesses of all sizes. Ransomware is a malicious software program that encrypts the victim's data, rendering it inaccessible until a ransom is paid. The consequences of a successful ransomware attack can be devastating, leading to financial losses, operational disruptions, reputational damage, and even legal repercussions.

The holiday season brings tons of opportunities for retailers to thrive, but it also opens the door to increased cyber risks. With so many people shopping and transactions spiking, cybercriminals see this period as a perfect chance to strike. From sneaky phishing attempts to full-blown ransomware attacks, your business could be at risk.

During the holidays, retailers can feel overwhelmed by the number of tasks they need to complete. But while keeping up with the holiday rush, they also need to be vigilant about potential cyberthreats. With more customers shopping online and increased payment activity, there are several risks that can affect retailers during this time.