Protect Your Business From Cybercrimes Before It’s Too Late

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Hi Reader,

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You don’t have to run a tech company to be a target for cybercrime. In fact, small businesses and solopreneurs are more likely to be targeted because many haven’t taken the basic steps to protect themselves.

I know this not from theory, but from experience.

The Morning Everything Disappeared

One morning, I turned on my computer and a message was displayed on my terminal. It was a ransomware demand for $5,000 if I wanted to get control of my computer back. I had an hour to pay. If I didn’t pay, I’d lose everything.

I don't want to keep you in suspense...I didn’t pay. The last thing I was going to do is pay them, even if I did have the money. Plus I was naive. I wondered how difficult it was to override whatever they threatened. Needless to say they delivered on their promise. All of my files were corupted. I tried to fix it myself, then I brought in help. We tried everything.

My files were corrupted beyond recovery.

The takeaway: protecting your business before an attack is far more effective than trying to recover after one.​
Once the damage is done, the options become limited and costly. But with even a few simple preventative steps—strong passwords, secure backups, regular updates—you can dramatically reduce your risk. Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does have to be a priority.

Why This Matters for Your Business

You don’t have to be running a massive company to be targeted. The statistics are clear:

• About 50% of small businesses will face a cyberattack in 2025
• 82% of ransomware attacks now hit businesses with under 1,000 employees
• 55% affect those with fewer than 100 employees
• The average recovery cost from a ransomware attack ranges from $120,000 to $250,000

Even worse? Around half of small businesses that are attacked never reopen.

But it’s not all bad news. Many do survive, especially those who had even a basic prevention plan in place.

5 Quick Ways to Boost Your Cybersecurity Today

Here’s where to start:

1. Use strong passwords and Two-Factor Authentication​
   Require unique passwords for every login. Use a password manager like Bitwarden, LastPass, or 1Password.
   Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), which adds a second layer of protection. After entering your password, you’ll also be asked to confirm your identity through a code sent to your phone, an app like Google Authenticator, or biometric data like a fingerprint or face scan.
2. Keep your devices updated​
   Enable automatic updates. Patch security vulnerabilities as soon as they’re discovered. Remove outdated software and unused accounts.
3. Backup your files (the right way)​
   Follow the 3–2–1 rule: three copies of your data, stored in two formats, with one copy kept off-site or in the cloud. Use tools like Backblaze, Acronis, or Carbonite. Test your backups regularly.
4. Train your team (even if it’s just you)​
   Learn how to spot phishing emails and fake attachments. Review who has access to sensitive tools. Use platforms like KnowBe4 or even simple checklists to stay informed.
5. Secure your Wi-Fi and devices​
   Change your router’s default password. Hide your network name and turn on encryption. Install antivirus software or endpoint protection.

Don’t Become a Statistic

That ransomware attack could have ended my business. It didn't, but it did cause me a lot of problems. It was then I realized that my ignorance about the cyber attacks could no longer stand. I decided to make cybersecurity a priority from that day forward.

You don’t have to live in fear of cybercriminals, but you do need to take this seriously.

Get the Cybersecurity Starter Checklist

I’ve put together a free one-page checklist that shows you how to protect your business in less than a day. No tech skills required. You can find it in my electronics library here.​

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P.S. I don’t earn commissions from the tools I recommend. These are simply resources I trust and use myself. I’m here to help you stay safe, not to sell you software.

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Your Entrepreneur Toolkit Lots of Tools You can Use With each email, I share practical tools, tips, and encouragement to support your journey—whether you’re still dreaming or already building. You can find everything that I write about in a downloadble format, here at the Electronic Library!​

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