Large corporations aren’t the only ones at risk from hackers and other cybercriminals. Small businesses everywhere are increasingly targeted: according to Verizon's 2025 Data Breach Investigations Report, small and medium-sized businesses are nearly four times more likely to be targeted than large enterprises.
Statistics like this make it clear why it’s essential to have strong cybersecurity protection in place. This guide includes a cybersecurity policy template for small businesses you can follow to protect your own company from ever-changing threats.
What is cybersecurity for small businesses?
Cybersecurity involves protecting your business’s digital assets from unauthorized access, attacks, and damage. For small businesses, this means ensuring your data, systems, and networks are secure.
Without proper cybersecurity measures, you risk losing valuable information, facing financial losses, and damaging your reputation. Assessing your needs involves understanding the risks your business faces and implementing tailored solutions.
Looking for corporate cybersecurity support? Check out our Complete Guide to Corporate Cybersecurity.
Why is cybersecurity for small businesses important?
Cybersecurity is critical because small businesses are often seen as easy targets by criminals. According to a study by the National Cyber Security Alliance, 60% of small businesses that suffer a cyber attack go out of business within six months. Investing in cybersecurity protects your data, maintains customer trust, and ensures business continuity.
How do I know what cybersecurity protection my small business needs?
To determine your cybersecurity needs, start by identifying what data you handle, how it's stored, and who has access to it. Regular risk assessments can highlight vulnerabilities and guide you in choosing appropriate security measures.
Small business cybersecurity policy template
Creating a cybersecurity policy is crucial for establishing protocols and protecting your business. Below is a cybersecurity policy template for small business that can help you get started by covering essential areas like password management, data sharing, phishing prevention, malware protection, and employee training.
As you build out your cybersecurity policy, be sure to include the following areas:
Password management
Strong password practices are a cornerstone of cybersecurity. Encourage the use of complex passwords and implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for added security. A study by Verizon found that 81% of data breaches are due to weak or stolen passwords. Regularly update passwords and educate employees on creating secure passwords.
Data sharing
Safeguard your business data by controlling how and with whom it's shared. Encrypt sensitive information and use secure file-sharing services. According to a recent report by SecurityScorecard, third-party attacks have led to 29% of breaches. When you implement cybersecurity best practices for small businesses, limit access to critical data and regularly review permissions.
Phishing prevention
Phishing attacks are common and can lead to significant data breaches. Train employees to recognize phishing emails and report suspicious activities. The Anti-Phishing Working Group reported over 200,000 phishing sites in 2022 alone. Use email filtering tools and keep your software updated to reduce risks.
Malware protection
Malware can disrupt your operations and compromise your data. Protect your business by installing reputable antivirus software and keeping it up-to-date. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) recommends regular software updates and frequent scans to detect and remove malware.
Employee cybersecurity training
Employees are your first line of defense against cyber threats. Regular training sessions can equip them with the knowledge to identify and prevent attacks. According to a report by Cybersecurity Ventures, businesses that prioritize employee training reduce their cyber risk by up to 70%.
Aim to develop a training program that covers the basics of cybersecurity and keeps staff informed about the latest threats. Security awareness training is one of the most effective ways of empowering yourself and your employees to quickly identify and avoid cyber threats, including phishing attacks.
Protect your small business with Jericho Security
Protecting your small business from cyber threats is more important than ever. While this cybersecurity policy template for small business can get you started, partnering with a dynamic provider can make your measures more effective.
At Jericho Security, we provide specialized solutions tailored to meet the needs of small businesses. Our AI-powered cybersecurity training equips employees with the knowledge to stay ahead of phishing emails and other evolving threats.
Ready to take your defenses to the next generation? Discover how Jericho Security can help you stay protected.