This is the digital age. Cybersecurity is no longer just the job of the IT department. Business managers are expected to be computer literate. It is your job to protect yourself, your team and your company’s data. A single wrong click is all that it takes to lose your data to dangerous hackers. Cyber crimes do not discriminate. They target unsuspecting internet users. Managers need to understand the threats that care commonly found on the internet.

Understanding the Risks

The internet is a double edge sword. It gives as much as it takes. Whenever you turn on your WIFI, your costumer data is in danger. This includes names, addresses and payment information. Company trade secrets and proprietary tools can be hacked. Payroll information and employ records are not safe either. Financial losses are just a click. Ransomware and phishing not only damage your finances, but also your company’s reputation. These are just some of the many dangers that lurk in the murky waters called the internet.

•  The average global cost of a data breach in 2024 was approximately $4.88M, while in 2025 it slightly decreased to $4.44M
• In the U.S., breach costs reached a record $10.22M per incident
• Ransomware incidents alone cost organizations an average of $5.13M or more

The average small business cyberattack costs $25,000+ and often begins with human error. Don’t let that human error be yours.

Common Threats Every Manager Should Know

Phishing are fake messages or emails. They are designed to trick users into clicking malware. These messages also trick you into giving sensitive information like emails or credit card information.

Ransomwares come in many different flavors. They freeze up your data, personal computer and even cellphones. You do not regain control of your technology, until you pay a ransom.

Social engineering attacks are a little trickier to spot. They are done by humans and not by programs. Con artists pose as vendors, clients or executives. They can trick you into giving them sensitive company information. When in doubt, keep asking questions about their identity.

Weak passwords allow hackers to get into your company easy. I know that it can be a pain to memorize a long password. Think of the alternative. A weak password can cost you money. So, if you have a hard time memorizing a long password just write it down. Put it in a sticky note or a password book. Keep those items in a place that only you know how to find. This will keep your long password safe from con artists and corporate spies.

• 68 Percent of all Data breaches in the US are caused by weak passwords.

Building a Culture of Cyber Awareness

It is important to keep your team updated on all cyber threats. Hackers are famous for constantly reinventing the virus. At least once a month, dedicate a small session of the day to inform them of current and new cyber threats. Design protocols for managing suspicious emails. Tell them to report anything that seems suspicious, without fear. It is also important to lead by example. Do not reuse password. Do not ignore updates.

• 77% of organizations don’t conduct regular security awareness training
• Shockingly, 45% of organizations provide no cybersecurity training at all for new employees

Essential Tools and Policies for Managers

Learn how to use a password manager to protect login credentials. Get two-factor authentication on all your business platforms. This includes both computers and company cellphones. Keep all your hardware up to date.

Design a cybersecurity policy with outlines of safe computing practices.  Even if you do everything right, hacking can still occur by sheer brute force attacks. Plan what you are going to do when it happens, and not if it happens.

• Employees who receive security awareness training are 70% less likely to fall for phishing attacks

Working With IT 

It is important to have a good working relationship with the IT department. They are your last line of defense should a hacker attack occur. Ask them to explain the issues in a language that you can understand. If you do not understand a jargon, ask them for further instructions. Once you both come to an understanding, set realistic IT security goals.

Cybersecurity is an ongoing progress. Learn the risk. Protect your company by working alongside your IT team.

Cybersecurity Is Not Optional

The internet is here to stay, and so are the hackers. Gone are the times when you could ignore cyberthreats. As business managers, it is your duty to lead the way in keeping data safe. You don’t need to be a hacker to create a secure workplace. You do need to be informed and prepared for every eventuality.

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Q and A

Q: What's the difference between a malware and virus?

A: A virus is a type of malware, but not all malwares are viruses. Viruses replicate and spread. They are designed to break your computer or to weaken its defenses. Viruses allows for malwares to be installed. Malwares include spyware, ransomware and trojans.

Q: What is two-factor authentication (2FA)?

A: It means to add a second step to your log in. It asks for a code sent your cellphone. This makes it harder for hackers to get into your computer, even if they figured out your password. This forces hackers to physically steal your cellphone to have access to your sensitive information.

Q: Is using public Wi-Fi risky?

A: Yes. It is very risky. Public Wi-Fi can easily be hacked. You also run the risk of running into a public Wi-Fi that is ran by a hacker. If you use that Wi-Fi, the hacker will be able to see everything you do. If you must use it, do not log into sensitive accounts, or go to areas that require a password log in.

Q: How often should I change my password?

A: For important accounts, change passwords every 3 months. For nonessential accounts, every 3 mons. Your new password should have a healthy mix of numbers, letters and symbols.