Stay Vigilant: Cyber Threats Are Evolving—Is Your Business Ready?
Article: August 2025
We’re in a time of remarkable digital advancement—AI, automation, and cloud-based tools are reshaping how we do business. But with innovation comes exposure. Cybercriminals are moving just as fast, and Connecticut’s small businesses are increasingly in their crosshairs.
According to Accenture, 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses, yet only 14% are prepared. The message is clear: embrace technology but protect your business as you grow.
Understanding common cyberattacks is your first line of defense:
- Phishing – Deceptive emails or texts that trick users into giving up passwords or financial data.
- Spoofing – Hackers impersonate trusted sources like banks or vendors to gain access.
- Ransomware – Malicious software that locks your data until you pay a ransom.
- Business Email Compromise (BEC) – A hijacked business email is used to request fraudulent transfers or sensitive info.
- Credential Stuffing – Using stolen login credentials to access multiple systems (especially if passwords are reused).
- Man-in-the-Middle Attacks – Hackers intercept data over Wi-Fi, stealing information in real time.
What You Can Do – Even without a full IT team, here’s how to strengthen your defense:
- Partner with a Cybersecurity MSP – A Managed Services Provider can monitor and respond to threats cost-effectively.
- Get Cyber Liability Insurance – Work with a broker to cover financial losses and legal exposure.
- Train Your Team – Most breaches start with a click. Educate employees on phishing and scams.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – Adds a critical layer of login security.
- Back Up Regularly and Update Software – Prevent data loss and patch vulnerabilities.
- Set Remote Access Policies – Secure personal devices used for business.
Scams Are Personal, Too: Today’s scams target not just your business, but your people:
- Smishing – Fraudulent texts pretending to be banks or delivery services.
- Fake QR Codes – Misleading codes that lead to malicious sites.
- Romance & Investment Scams – Long-game frauds to gain trust and money.
- Job Offer Scams – Fake employment opportunities requesting personal or banking info.
- Digital Wallet is at risk – Hackers are stealing credit card data from merchants before your new card even hits your mailbox.
Bottom Line: Encourage vigilance both at work and at home. Cyber hygiene is now a required life skill.
Need help creating a Human Resources plan for training cyber vigilance in the workplace? Contact the Southington Regional Chamber to be connected to a CHUMCAP specialist. CHUMCAP is a partner HR program of the Southington Regional Chamber of Commerce and industry experts to provide information that helps you protect your business and your employees. For information on other topics, visit the CHUMCAP page at SouthingtonChamber.com or call the Chamber office 860.628.8036. (This content is a collaboration of the Southington Regional Chamber of Commerce, Tracy Aparo – eGAGE, and the Law Office of Allie Levene.)