Small businesses are targeted because attackers expect weaker defences. The good news: most breaches are preventable with basic measures. Use this checklist to find your gaps.
Accounts and access
- Turn on multi-factor authentication for email, banking, social media and admin panels.
- Use a password manager and unique passwords everywhere.
- Remove access immediately when staff leave.
- Give people only the access they need.
Email security
- Set up SPF, DKIM and DMARC records for your domain to reduce spoofing.
- Train staff to verify payment change requests by phone.
- Use advanced email filtering for phishing and malware.
Devices and software
- Keep operating systems, browsers and apps updated automatically.
- Install reputable endpoint protection on every device.
- Encrypt laptops and enable remote wipe for phones.
Website security
- Update WordPress core, themes and plugins regularly.
- Use a web application firewall and strong admin passwords.
- Remove unused plugins and admin accounts.
Backups
- Back up files, email and systems automatically.
- Keep at least one copy offline or in a separate account.
- Test restoring a backup at least quarterly.
People and planning
- Run short phishing awareness training twice a year.
- Write a one-page incident plan: who to call, what to disconnect, how to communicate.
- Understand your obligations under the UAE Personal Data Protection Law.
Our cybersecurity team can assess your business against this checklist and fix the gaps.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common cyberattack on small businesses?
Phishing emails that steal passwords or trick staff into sending payments to fraudsters.
Is multi-factor authentication really necessary?
Yes. It blocks the vast majority of account takeovers that use stolen passwords.
How often should we back up?
Daily for business data, with at least one copy stored separately from your main systems.