May 05, 2025
A client recently asked me about the most common mistakes business owners make regarding IT and cybersecurity.
Where to start…
After years of experience with businesses of all sizes, the most prevalent mistake I observe is treating IT and cybersecurity as an afterthought. Despite the frequent news of data breaches, many business owners continue to underestimate the genuine risks posed by cyberthreats or believe that implementing basic protections is sufficient. Unfortunately, that's not the case. A single breach, ransomware attack, or IT failure can bring your business to a standstill overnight. Yet, too many companies adopt a reactive mindset, prioritizing security only after an incident occurs, which ultimately proves to be more exhausting and costly.
Another frequent error is assuming that free software is adequate. I understand the appeal—free antivirus programs, consumer-grade routers, and DIY security setups may seem like a budget-friendly choice, especially for small businesses facing inflation. However, those supposed savings can quickly vanish when your business experiences a data breach, incurs compliance fines, or loses critical client trust. If you wouldn't rely on a free spreadsheet app to run your business, why would you depend on low-cost software for your entire security framework?
Additionally, many businesses underestimate the impact of downtime. They may think they can manage being offline for a few hours if something fails. However, when your network crashes, your team may be unable to work for hours or even days, customers can't access your services, and you start losing money. A comprehensive IT strategy is not just about security; it's also about ensuring operational continuity so that when disaster strikes (and it will to some extent), you're not left scrambling for a solution.
Finally, one of the most commonly overlooked mistakes is failing to plan for the long term. IT and cybersecurity are not one-time investments. Threats evolve, technology progresses, and hackers become more sophisticated every day. If you're not actively assessing, updating, and strengthening your security measures, you're already falling behind.
Ultimately, you must protect what you've built.
So, what's the solution? Here it is:
- Stop cutting corners. Invest in professional-grade IT and security solutions rather than temporary fixes.
- Think ahead. A robust cybersecurity strategy is not a one-off task; it's an ongoing obligation.
- Seek expert advice. You don't have to navigate the complexities of IT security by yourself. Surround yourself with knowledgeable individuals who can help you stay proactive and ahead of potential threats.
If you're ready to take IT and
cybersecurity seriously, let's talk. Click
here or give us a call at 907-865-3100 to book a free Discovery Call, and let's make sure
your business isn't one click away from disaster.
