The Three Biggest Cybersecurity Gaps in SMBs – and How to Fix Them
Cybersecurity might seem like a problem for the big players, but here’s the reality—small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are just as much, if not more, in the firing line. In fact, cybercriminals often see SMBs as easy targets, assuming they have fewer resources and weaker defences.
But being a smaller business doesn’t mean you have to be an easy win for hackers.
The good news? Most cyber threats can be stopped in their tracks with the right security measures. So, let’s dive into the three biggest cybersecurity gaps we see in SMBs—and, more importantly, how you can fix them.
1. Weak Passwords and Lack of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
One of the simplest ways cybercriminals break into systems. Weak passwords.
Too many businesses still rely on easy-to-guess passwords like “12345” or “password” (yes, really). Even worse, people often reuse passwords across multiple accounts, meaning a single breach can lead to a domino effect of compromised data.
The Fix
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Strong passwords—think long, complex, and unique for every account.
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Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)—a simple but powerful extra layer of security, like a one-time code sent to your phone.
How Can Chess Help?
We make securing your accounts simple. Our password management solutions ensure your team follows best practices without the headache of remembering multiple passwords.
We also implement MFA across your systems, making it significantly harder for attackers to get in—even if they’ve got hold of a password.
2. Outdated Software & Unpatched Systems
We get it—software update reminders always seem to pop up at the worst time. But delaying updates leaves your business exposed. Cybercriminals actively look for outdated software because it’s full of known vulnerabilities that they can exploit.
And with Windows 10 reaching End of Life this year, unpatched systems are an even bigger risk. If you’re still running old operating systems or software, now’s the time to act.
The Fix
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Keep everything updated—from operating systems to business apps and security software.
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Automate updates where possible to avoid delays.
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Don’t forget about company devices—laptops, phones, and tablets all need regular security patches.
How Chess Can Help
We take the hassle out of keeping your systems secure. Our patch management services ensure your software and devices are always up to date—without disrupting your business.
We monitor your network 24/7, applying security patches as soon as they’re available, so you don’t have to worry about missing a critical update.
3. Lack of Employee Training and Awareness
Your team is your first line of defence—or your biggest vulnerability. Phishing emails, social engineering scams, and accidental data leaks are some of the top causes of security breaches, and without proper training, your employees could be putting your business at risk without even realising it.
The Fix
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Regular cybersecurity awareness training to keep your team alert to threats.
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Simulated phishing exercises to test and improve response rates.
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Clear policies on reporting suspicious activity.
How Chess Can Help
We don’t just provide training—we make cybersecurity second nature for your team. Our tailored security awareness programmes cover everything from spotting phishing attempts to securing devices and passwords.
Plus, with regular refreshers and real-world examples, your employees stay sharp and prepared against evolving threats.
Cybersecurity Isn’t One-and-Done—It’s an Ongoing Process
Addressing these three gaps will dramatically improve your security posture, but cyber threats evolve fast. That’s why having the right security partner matters.
To help you stay ahead of cyber threats, we’re offering a complimentary security assessment that will:
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Identify vulnerabilities, security gaps, and potential threats.
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Provide expert insights tailored to your business.
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Give you actionable recommendations from experienced security engineers.
About the author
Chess
Chess is one of the UK’s leading independent and trusted technology service providers, employing more than 240 skilled people across the UK, supporting over 18,000 organisations.
We believe IT should work for you, reduce costs, deliver efficiency, keep you secure, enhance your work-life balance, improving performance. At Chess, we’re passionate about our unique culture and our continuous investment in our people to be industry experts.
We’re extremely proud that our people voted us No.1 in ‘The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work for’ list 2018, and we continue to celebrate more than 17 years in the top 100.