Small Business Cybersecurity Made Simple: Your Monthly Checklist

Jan 15

Cybersecurity threats are everywhere, and small businesses are often prime targets. Hackers know smaller teams may not have the same defenses as larger companies—but that doesn’t mean you’re defenseless.

As a former Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), I’ve spent decades navigating cybersecurity challenges. The good news? Protecting your business is simpler than you might think. By breaking it into manageable monthly steps, you can create a safer digital environment without the stress.

Your Monthly Cybersecurity Checklist

1. Keep Your Software Up to Date

Outdated software is like leaving your front door wide open. Every update patches vulnerabilities that hackers might exploit.

What to do:

Enable automatic updates for all apps, systems, and antivirus programs.
Replace unsupported software—it’s not worth the risk.

2. Check Access Logs for Suspicious Activity

Would you give a stranger a key to your office? Checking access logs helps ensure only authorized people are using your systems.

What to look for:

Logins from unexpected locations or times.
Employees who no longer work with you but still have access.
Third-party apps with unnecessary permissions.

3. Back Up Your Data (And Test It)

Imagine your system crashes tomorrow. Would your business survive? Regular backups keep your critical information safe.

Quick tips:

Automate daily backups to cloud storage or external drives.
Test restoring your data to ensure backups work.

4. Make Cybersecurity Training Routine

Your team is your first line of defense. A well-trained team can stop attacks before they start.

Focus on:

Recognizing phishing emails and scams.
Using strong passwords (password managers can help).
Watching short training videos.

5. Audit Your Vendors

Your security is only as strong as your weakest link. Third-party vendors with access to your systems must also follow best practices.

Steps to take:

Review vendors’ security measures and ask questions if something seems unclear.
Limit the data and access you share with each vendor.

What to Avoid

Protect your business by steering clear of these common mistakes:

Ignoring Software Updates: They’re your best defense against known threats.
Reusing Passwords: Hackers rely on people using the same password everywhere.
Skipping Training: A single uninformed click can lead to disaster.

Take the First Step Today

Small steps add up to big protection. Use this checklist to strengthen your business’s defenses one month at a time. Need more help? Our cybersecurity training videos can guide you every step of the way.

John Germain