It’s safe to say that no business is ever spared from cyberattacks. Whether big or small, companies can easily be subject to online brand impersonation, phishing, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, malware, and many others. Small businesses are all the more vulnerable to these attacks, particularly if they don’t protect their websites and networks with robust security measures.

The last thing you’ll ever want to happen is to put the data and information of your business and customers at risk due to fraudulent activities by online perpetrators. Not only will this damage your online brand reputation, but it will also possibly shut down your small business!

In this article, we’ll discuss the risk of online brand threats and how you can protect your small business against them:

The risk of online brand threats

When it comes to online brand threats, it may immediately conjure images of big names, such as Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, and the Bank of America, risking their businesses. But many fail to realise that small businesses are equally vulnerable for a handful of reasons. Below are some details to take note of:

• Spoofing attacks: These attacks have become more common in recent years. In fact, Microsoft reported that phishing attacks jumped 250 percent in 2018 alone.
• Online vulnerability: Technological experts claim that small businesses are especially vulnerable to online attacks because they don’t have the technology and robust security systems that big companies have. If you aren’t going to pay attention to your online security, you may soon become a victim!
• Strong impact: Large businesses can easily and quickly recover once online attacks have hit them. But think of how these can impact your small business and your customers. Not only will you risk your business growth and expansion, but it won’t also thrive and survive in the long run.

How to protect the online brand of your small business

Given the risks of online brand threats discussed above, it’s best to set robust protection measures for your small business’s online brand. Here’s what you can do:

• Monitor your brand consistently: The best course of action is to track and monitor your brand, whether on your website, social media accounts, or other digital platforms. It’s best to utilise tools or software that can identify online brand impersonation, phishing, and other attacks. Ultimately, working with a cybersecurity agency, such as FraudWatch International, will make a world of difference in your online brand protection!
• Strengthen your domain record: If your small business website and network have long been established when online security wasn’t prominent, then it’s best to strengthen your domain record by changing its settings. That said, add three records to your DNS information, such as SPF, DKIM, and DMARC, as a way to block fake emails and combat cyber attacks.
• Communicate with your employees and customers: Education is the key to properly orienting your employees on online security measures and ensuring they strictly follow the protocols. You must also apply this same practice with your customers who are conducting business transactions with you, so they are aware and protected at all times.

At this point, you now know why it’s vital to protect your online brand from cyberattacks. To that end, be sure to consider the valuable tips outlined above to protect your small business’s online brand. It may not be your top priority as of now, but know that online security will pay off in the long run, which is why it should be part and parcel of your overall business success!

Are you looking for online brand protection for your small business? You’ve come to the right place, as we’re a leading online cybersecurity agency. As a brand protection company, we help protect your brand from phishing, malware, and brand abuse on social media and mobile apps. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!