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S mall- and medium-sized enterprises( SMEs) face increasing cybersecurity threats as cybercriminals target them for their valuable data and often-limited security resources. One of the most significant threats is mobile-targeted phishing, or‘ mishing’, where attackers use SMS and messaging apps to trick employees into revealing sensitive information or installing malware. Ransomware and other forms of mobile malware also pose serious risks, with attackers encrypting data and demanding payment for its release. Plus, vulnerabilities in mobile applications and thirdparty services create security gaps that hackers can exploit. Unmanaged or compromised devices further increase risk, especially as employees rely on personal mobile devices for work. Zero-day threats remain a growing
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SMES NEED A COST- EFFECTIVE YET COMPREHENSIVE SECURITY APPROACH THAT PRIORITISES MOBILE PROTECTION.
concern, as attackers continuously seek out and exploit unknown vulnerabilities before security patches are available.
To mitigate these risks, SMEs need a costeffective yet comprehensive security approach that prioritises mobile protection. Implementing mobile security solutions, such as AI-driven mobile threat defence( MTD), enables businesses to detect and respond to phishing, malware and zero-day attacks in real-time. Given the increasing reliance on mobile devices, SMEs should adopt a mobile security strategy, ensuring that both company- issued and personal devices used for work are protected. Multi-factor authentication( MFA) is another crucial defence, making it harder for attackers to gain unauthorised access even if credentials are stolen.
Employee security awareness training is an affordable yet effective measure to help prevent phishing and social engineering attacks. Staff should be educated on recognising suspicious links, avoiding unverified apps and securing their devices. Regular software updates and patching are also essential to closing security gaps, as unpatched systems remain a top target for cybercriminals. Implementing a zero-trust security model – where access to critical business systems is granted based on user identity, device security posture and behavioural analytics – further reduces exposure to cyberthreats.
For SMEs looking for scalable and budgetfriendly security solutions, cloud-based security services offer a practical option. These services provide endpoint detection and response( EDR), secure web gateways and other protective measures without requiring significant infrastructure investments. By leveraging cloudbased security and AI-driven mobile protection, SMEs can enhance their cybersecurity posture while maintaining cost-efficiency.
As cyberthreats continue to evolve, SMEs must take proactive steps to protect their mobile devices, applications and data. A layered security approach that combines mobile security, employee training, authentication controls and cloud-based solutions ensures businesses remain resilient against cyberattacks without exceeding their budgets. Investing in the right mobile security solutions today can prevent costly breaches and disruptions in the future.
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EMPLOYEE SECURITY AWARENESS TRAINING IS AN AFFORDABLE YET EFFECTIVE MEASURE TO HELP PREVENT PHISHING AND SOCIAL ENGINEERING ATTACKS.
KERN SMITH, VP OF GLOBAL SOLUTIONS, ZIMPERIUM
Intelligent SME. tech
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