Office Cybersecurity Threats and How to Combat Them

"Don't try to pet strange dogs."

That's a favorite quote of corporate IT and cybersecurity experts, and it's one of the best pieces of advice they give to the employees of their organizations regarding cybersecurity. It's a wise tip and one which all employees should keep in mind. It means if it doesn't feel right, don't click on it.

For facility managers, office managers and small business owners, understanding and addressing office cybersecurity threats is crucial to protecting your organization's data, reputation and overall operations. Your IT department should never be the only team members protecting your office from cyberattacks. By focusing on simple, effective actions and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness among your employees, you can help to reduce your organization's vulnerability to cyberthreats. After all, an informed team is a protected team.

As we explore the actions you and your employees can take, keep in mind that your organization's computer systems are unique. Consult with an expert for tailored security suggestions based on your particular needs.

Let's now dive into the world of office cybersecurity.

Why Cybersecurity Matters for Your Business

Cybersecurity threats have increased in frequency. There were 3,205 publicly reported data breaches in 2023 — that's a 72% increase in data breaches since 2021, which held the previous all-time record.

These threats have also become increasingly sophisticated, posing significant risks to businesses worldwide. From data breaches to ransomware attacks, the potential damage can be devastating.

In 2023, the average data breach cost a company $4.45 million. For medium or large organizations, that's a big hit on the bottom line. For smaller businesses, such costs can be crippling.

By understanding the types of cybersecurity threats and implementing robust security measures, you can help to protect your organization from these potentially devastating attacks.

Publicly reported data compromises are at an all-time high

Chart showing an increase in publicly reported data compromises.