Top IT Security Priorities for Small Businesses: What You Should Focus On First

In today’s digital landscape, small businesses are no longer flying under the radar when it comes to cyber threats. In fact, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly targeted because they often lack the layered defenses of larger enterprises. But with limited time and resources, where should a small business begin?

Here are the top IT security priorities every small business should focus on first to build a strong cybersecurity foundation:

1. Employee Awareness & Training

Human error remains the biggest threat to business security. Employees who aren't trained on cybersecurity basics can easily fall for phishing scams or unknowingly expose sensitive data.

What to do:

• Provide regular, short cybersecurity training sessions.

• Teach staff how to identify suspicious emails, links, and attachments.

• Encourage a culture of reporting—no punishment for mistakes, just prompt action.

Threats mitigated:

• Phishing attacks

• Social engineering

• Accidental data exposure

  
  

2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Passwords alone aren’t enough anymore. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to verify their identity using two or more methods beyond just a username and password.  Therefore, if a password was breached, the account would still be secure.  MFA is often seen in the form of a text message or email code, but can also include answering a secret question, verifying through an app notification, fingerprint, etc

MFA is especially important for securing high-value targets like email, financial tools, cloud platforms, and remote access portals, which are often the first points of entry attackers try to exploit.

Why it matters: Even if a cybercriminal manages to steal a password, MFA adds a crucial layer that prevents access without the second form of verification. It drastically reduces the likelihood of account compromise and helps protect against common attack methods such as phishing, credential stuffing, and brute force attacks.

Threats mitigated:

• Account takeovers

• Credential stuffing

• Brute force attacks

  
  

3. Strong Backup and Recovery Plan

Cyberattacks, system failures, or even natural disasters can cause major data loss. Regular backups ensure that you can restore operations quickly.  Backups should be taken at least daily, meaning there is always a recent backup to fall back to.

Action steps:

• Automate daily backups.

• Store copies offsite or in the cloud.

• Test recovery procedures regularly.

Threats mitigated:

• Ransomware

• Data corruption

• Hardware failure

  
  

4. Patch and Update Software Regularly

Outdated software is one of the easiest ways for attackers to exploit your systems. When applications or devices aren’t updated, they often contain known vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can target.  Regularly applying patches closes these security gaps, reducing the risk of unauthorized access, malware infections, or data breaches. Keeping software current is a simple but critical step in defending against emerging threats.

Make it a priority to:

• Enable automatic updates on systems and applications.

• Schedule regular checks for patches on devices and software that don’t auto-update.

Threats mitigated:

• Exploits of known vulnerabilities

• Malware installation through outdated systems

  
  

5. Secure Endpoints (Laptops, Phones, and Other Devices)

Your staff’s laptops, smartphones, and tablets serve as gateways into your business network. If these endpoints are not properly secured, they can be compromised—providing attackers with direct access to your systems and sensitive data. With remote work and mobile access more common than ever, securing these devices is essential to reducing the risk of breaches, malware infections, and unauthorized data access.

How to protect them:

• Use antivirus and endpoint detection solutions.

• Require device encryption and password/PIN protection.

• Enable remote wipe capabilities on mobile devices.

Threats mitigated:

• Device theft or loss

• Malware infections

• Unauthorized access to business data

  
  

6. Firewall and Network Security

Firewalls and secure configurations help prevent unauthorized access to your network and systems. Using a commercial grade firewall and wireless system helps your network functions properly and is secure.

Checklist:

• Ensure a business-grade firewall is in place.

• Secure Wi-Fi with strong passwords and segment guest networks.

• Avoid using default passwords on routers and network devices.

Threats mitigated:

• Network intrusions

• Eavesdropping on traffic

• Unauthorized remote access

  
  

7. Vendor and Cloud Security

Businesses use third-party services for email, file storage, or payment processing. These vendors often process or store our data.  Even if a vendor does not have access to data, they may provide important supporting services, which could negatively affect your business if they experienced a disruption.

Be sure to:

• Understand how your vendors protect your data.

• Limit vendor access to only what’s necessary.

• Review contracts for data protection policies.

Threats mitigated:

• Third-party data breaches

• Overexposed sensitive data

• Compliance violations

  
  

8. Develop a Simple Incident Response Plan

Even the best defenses can fail. A basic response plan helps you act quickly to limit damage and recover faster.  An incident response plan helps with your initial response, gets insurance involved faster, improves communication and returns your business back to normal quicker.

Include in your plan:

• Who to contact internally and externally.

• Steps to isolate affected systems.

• How to communicate with clients if data is compromised.

Threats mitigated:

• Extended downtime

• Poor incident handling

• Reputational damage

  
  

How a Cybersecurity Consultant Can Help

Implementing these security priorities might feel overwhelming, especially for business owners already wearing multiple hats. That’s where a cybersecurity consultant becomes invaluable.

Here’s how a cybersecurity consultant can help:

• Assess Your Current Risk - A consultant can perform a professional risk assessment to identify vulnerabilities, prioritize them, and provide a roadmap tailored to your business size and industry.

• Create a Customized Security Plan - Instead of using one-size-fits-all solutions, a consultant helps design security controls that fit your specific operations, budget, and team capabilities.

• Work Alongside Your IT Provider - If you already work with an IT service company, a cybersecurity consultant brings an independent, security-focused perspective. They complement your IT team—not replace it—by handling risk management, compliance, and incident response planning.

• Provide Training and Policy Support - Consultants can help you roll out employee training, write clear cybersecurity policies, and set up ongoing awareness programs to strengthen your staff.

• Guide Incident Preparedness and Response - In the event of a security incident, having a consultant already familiar with your business can accelerate your response, minimize downtime, and reduce damage.

  
  

How Haven Bay Cybersecurity Can Help

Small businesses don’t need massive budgets to build strong cybersecurity. The key is prioritizing the fundamentals and building smart, scalable protections that match your risk level.

At Haven Bay Cybersecurity, we help small businesses take practical, cost-effective steps to improve their security posture—without overwhelming their team or budget. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to strengthen your current defenses, we’re here to help.