SMBs Are Taking Cybersecurity Seriously—And It’s About Time

For years, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) have been the low-hanging fruit for cybercriminals. Why? Because hackers knew SMBs didn’t always have the budget—or the urgency—to prioritize cybersecurity the way big corporations do. But that’s changing. Fast.

According to Datto’s latest State of Ransomware report, SMBs are finally stepping up their security game. Nearly half of them are planning to pour more money into network protection this year. And if you’re a business owner, that should tell you something: cybersecurity isn’t an “if we get around to it” kind of thing anymore. It’s a non-negotiable.

Money Talks—And So Does Ransomware

SMBs are now spending about 20% of their IT budgets on cybersecurity. That’s not just a number; it’s a statement. Businesses are tired of being held hostage by ransomware attacks that can cripple operations overnight. They’re investing in proactive defenses—firewalls, advanced email protection, endpoint security—because they know the cost of not doing it is far worse.

Cyber insurance is also becoming the norm, not a luxury. Nearly 70% of SMBs now carry policies, largely because insurers are demanding stricter security measures before signing off on coverage. It’s a wake-up call: if an insurance company won’t bet on your business without better cybersecurity, why should you?

Security Isn’t Just a Tool—It’s a Mindset

It’s not just about buying the latest software or hiring an IT team. More SMBs are conducting regular security assessments—some multiple times a year—to spot vulnerabilities before they become disasters. That’s the shift that matters most: businesses are treating cybersecurity as an ongoing process, not a one-time fix.

So, if you’re still thinking, “We’re too small to be a target,” think again. The bad guys don’t care how big you are. They care about how easy you are to hack. And right now, SMBs are making sure they’re no longer the easiest target on the block.

Need expert guidance on data protection, cybersecurity, or compliance? WingSwept specializes in Managed IT Services, Cybersecurity, and Compliance solutions to help businesses stay secure and resilient. Contact us today to learn how we can help safeguard your business.