Cybersecurity isn’t just a “big business” problem—it’s your problem. Whether you’re a team of two or two hundred, protecting your business from cyber threats is non-negotiable.
In this week’s episode of What’s the Startup, Michael Ramage, Director of Cyber Education and Research at Murray State University, breaks down the essentials every small business and startup founder needs to know. Spoiler alert: it’s not about spending thousands of dollars—it’s about managing risk and implementing a few practical steps to keep the bad guys out.
The Reality: Small Businesses Are a Target
Most founders don’t think about cybersecurity until it’s too late. It doesn’t “add value” to the bottom line, and with limited resources, it’s easy to put off. But here’s the truth:
- Ransomware attacks aren’t just for big corporations. Cybercriminals are in it for the money. Sending 100,000 phishing emails takes very little effort, and they only need a few clicks to cash in.
- The human element is the biggest risk. Somewhere between 93–98% of cyber breaches start because someone clicked a malicious link.
- Cybercriminals operate like businesses. They’re organized, efficient, and they improve their processes constantly. They’re in it to win.
Startups are vulnerable because they’re busy. They’re moving fast, and their “hair’s on fire.” But a simple mistake—like clicking one bad email—can cost you everything.
Simple Steps to Protect Your Business
Here’s the good news: some of the most impactful actions you can take are free or low-cost. You just need to put them in place.
Don’t Click the Link
Before clicking on an email or link, pause. Legitimate emails won’t pressure you to act right now. Slow down, check the sender, and confirm it’s real. One click can undo even the most advanced cybersecurity systems.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Reusing passwords is like leaving your front door wide open. If one account gets hacked (hello, Facebook), the bad guys will try that password everywhere. A password manager like LastPass or 1Password is your best friend.
Bonus Tip: Use long, complex passwords.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
This is one of the easiest ways to protect your accounts. Most platforms—Gmail, Facebook, LinkedIn—have it. Set it up, and make hackers’ jobs harder.
Back Up Your Data
Follow the “1-2-3 Rule” for backups:
- 3 copies of your data (original + 2 backups)
- 2 different mediums (e.g., cloud + external hard drive)
- 1 copy stored in a different location
Ransomware only works if you don’t have access to your data. Make sure you do.
AI: The Double-Edged Sword for Cybersecurity
AI is transforming cybersecurity—on both sides of the fight. Hackers now craft perfect phishing emails with no typos, no weird grammar—just sophisticated, believable messages designed to trick you.
The takeaway? Be cautious. Educate your team. AI is a tool, but it’s also a risk.
Show Up for Your Startup
Cybersecurity is a marathon, not a sprint. Start small. Take action. It’s more inconvenient to get hacked than it is to set up 2FA or check that email before you click.
And remember: Don’t click the link.
🎧 Want to dive deeper? Listen to the full conversation with Michael Ramage on What’s the Startup for actionable strategies and insights you can implement today.
Your future self—and your business—will thank you.