Simplify Cybersecurity Vendor Selection – Download Your Essential Checklist

Cybersecurity Vendor Selection

Cybersecurity often seems like a problem reserved for big corporations and government agencies—after all, their breaches make the headlines. But the reality is that small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are just as likely to be targeted by cyber threats, and the consequences can be far more devastating.

In 2022, approximately 43% of ransomware attacks and data breaches struck SMBs, following a trend where 42% of SMBs faced cyberattacks in 2021. The stakes are high: IBM estimates the average cost of a data breach at $4.35 million, while Forbes notes that up to 60% of small businesses close their doors within six months of a cyberattack. Unlike giant corporations that may weathered such financial blows, SMBs often lack the resources to recover, making cybersecurity not just a technical necessity but a matter of survival.

The digital economy brings a complex threat landscape for small businesses, where understanding the risks is the first step to building a stronger defense. Common dangers include:

Data Breaches: Malware, account hijacking, or even insider threats can expose sensitive data, leading to financial losses, reputational harm, and potential legal action.

Ransomware: High-profile incidents, like the 2024 attacks on educational institutions, prove that no business is immune—SMBs included.

Phishing and Social Engineering: With remote work and SaaS services on the rise, Business Email Compromises (BECs) and other phishing schemes spiked in 2022, exploiting human vulnerabilities to breach systems.

Add to these the growing challenges of DDoS attacks, worms, and viruses, and securing your business network has never been more critical—or more complicated. That’s where choosing the right cybersecurity vendor comes in.

A trusted partner can protect your systems from today’s most damaging threats, but with so much at risk, you can’t afford to pick just anyone. This vendor selection checklist is your guide to finding a cybersecurity company that fits your needs, budget, and future goals. It also highlights funding opportunities, such as workforce development grants and cybersecurity-specific grants, to help offset costs.

Take action now—don’t let your business become another statistic.

Download Your Checklist Here