The SMB Security Gap
According to ConnectWise's 2024 State of SMB Cybersecurity report, 94% of small and medium businesses experienced at least one cyberattack in the past year.
Yet most SMBs can't afford the tools that enterprises use to protect themselves. The result? A massive security gap that cybercriminals are eager to exploit.
The Numbers Are Alarming
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| SMBs attacked in 2024 | 94% | ConnectWise |
| Average breach cost (SMB) | $108,000 | Verizon DBIR |
| SMBs that close within 6 months of breach | 60% | Cybersecurity Ventures |
| SMBs with dedicated security staff | 14% | Ponemon |
For many small businesses, a single data breach is fatal.
Why SMBs Are Targeted
1. Weaker Defenses
Small businesses lack:
- Dedicated security teams
- Enterprise security tools
- Regular security training
- Incident response plans
2. Valuable Data
SMBs hold the same sensitive data as enterprises:
- Customer PII
- Payment information
- Employee records
- Business secrets
3. Supply Chain Access
Attackers use SMBs as entry points:
- Vendors with enterprise client access
- Partners in larger supply chains
- Service providers with privileged access
The Tool Cost Problem
Enterprise security tools are priced for... enterprises:
| Tool Category | Typical SMB Price |
|---|---|
| PII Detection/Redaction | $800+/month |
| Data Loss Prevention | $15+/user/month |
| ... |