It is widely acknowledged that Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) constitute the backbone of economies and employment across virtually every nation. Significant data from the World Bank indicates that SMEs account for approximately 90% of businesses globally and contribute to over 50% of employment. Furthermore, the Annual Report on European SMEs for 2022 highlights that SMEs represent more than 99% of enterprises within the European Union.
Paradoxically, despite the clear role of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in sustaining economic stability, there has been minimal action historically, and there continue to be insufficient efforts today to address cybersecurity systemically. Moreover, only in a limited number of countries, and more recently, have economic incentives been introduced to enhance knowledge regarding the risks associated with cyber warfare and the challenges posed by digital transformation. As is the case globally, there is a noticeable deficiency in incentives, such as economic support, tax credits, dedicated financing options for cybersecurity, or widely accessible insurance products in this domain. The majority of existing offerings are predominantly targeted towards large corporations, especially those that are publicly traded.
A different approach to protect SMEs
Each Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) is often distinct due to its significant diversity in size, business model, and internal organization. This uniqueness necessitates a customized approach to cybersecurity needs. Consequently, managing these organizations individually often renders them less attractive to larger cybersecurity firms, which typically focus on scaling their business models through high-volume operations and providing Software as a Service (SaaS).
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) consistently strive to harness technological advancements and broaden their market presence. However, in doing so, they frequently encounter an increasingly intricate and escalating array of cyber threats and cybersecurity challenges. Research demonstrates a considerable deficiency in cybersecurity awareness and resources among SMEs, rendering them particularly vulnerable to these threats. Due to budgetary constraints, these enterprises often lack specialized security departments commonly found in larger organizations. SMEs must understand the risks associated with inadequate cybersecurity practices and take appropriate measures to mitigate such vulnerabilities.
The initial challenge Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) face is recognizing an existing problem. In numerous instances, discussions with managers or founders of these organizations reveal a significant lack of awareness or, at the very least, an insufficient understanding of the issues about the cybersecurity of their businesses, particularly when technology is integrated into daily operations.
Cybersecurity professionals must clearly and accessible convey the concepts associated with cybersecurity and the risks linked to integrating digital transformation into routine operations. Often, managers and entrepreneurs of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are inadequately prepared, possess insufficient knowledge, and frequently demonstrate resistance to the collaborative initiatives proposed by cybersecurity firms.
We always propose adopting a teaching approach similar to those used in educational settings, from elementary schools to higher education. Just as we understand that a student’s initial lack of knowledge should not be viewed negatively, we must also acknowledge that a persistent lack of understanding may stem from ineffective teaching strategies. If a student struggles to grasp key concepts, it reflects more on the teacher’s ability to educate than the student’s capacity to learn. Ultimately, the teacher is not fulfilling their primary goal of fostering understanding in their students.
This principle should similarly pertain to cybersecurity professionals who engage with prospective clients. A significant proportion of potential clients who do not convert into actual customers indicates a shortfall in our ability to communicate and educate individuals effectively.
Help educate our future customers
Facilitating prospective customers’ understanding and education is imperative before their decision-making process.
A typical response from potential clients when cybersecurity solutions are first proposed is the assertion that they have already engaged an IT company for assistance. However, in many instances, these companies primarily provide hardware, install antivirus software, and offer some management software – often only managing patch updates, and even this is not consistently executed.
This situation indicates that customers fail to differentiate between the mere supply of technological products, which has become a commodity, and the comprehensive protection of their business against the risks associated with technology utilization.
If one were to inquire of the same customer, in the event of a suspected heart attack, which physician they would choose – an orthopedist or a cardiologist – most would unequivocally select a cardiologist. Conversely, in the event of a “heart attack” affecting their business due to a potential cyber attack, they may opt for the equivalent of an orthopedist (the standard IT company).
The underlying issue lies in the inability to recognize the distinct roles within the IT sector. At a foundational level, the basic qualification is that of an IT engineer, akin to a general medical degree; however, subsequent specializations exist. A cloud engineer differs significantly from a software developer, who is distinct from a cybersecurity specialist – much like the differences between a cardiologist and an orthopedist. Unfortunately, many Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) clients are unaware of these distinctions, and this lack of understanding often results from our insufficient explanation of our roles, services, and professional purpose during preliminary presentations.
A comprehensive solution-oriented approach
Addressing the comprehensive cybersecurity needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) requires recognizing the complexity of language, technical terminology, and the myriad of activities and applications that require installation and management.
The necessity for Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) solutions becomes evident because SMEs often lack extensive expertise and dedicated IT departments and do not possess internal cybersecurity resources. These solutions aim to deliver all-encompassing services by managing a complete range of security applications, regulatory compliance, and security education. By adopting this approach, SMEs are likely to feel more inclined to invest in their cybersecurity; they can trust in a single entity that serves as a “general contractor” for all matters related to their security, technological, compliance-based, or workforce training.
It is imperative to remember that while our core business is providing cybersecurity solutions, our client’s primary focus lies elsewhere. Consequently, cybersecurity is frequently viewed as a necessary expense that diverts attention from SME founders’ core business operations and managerial activities.
Our concrete proposal: 1P360S Platform
Considering that the typical Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) customer often lacks the capability and resources to manage complex security solutions directly, particularly within the constraints of a limited budget, we have developed a system designed to enable managers, entrepreneurs, and employees to utilize a comprehensive yet entirely customizable tool (as opposed to a Software as a Service model) in a straightforward manner.
We developed the platform named “1 Partner 360 Security (1P360S)“, which encompasses all necessary security features for managing security, compliance, security awareness training, corporate digital document management, and developing applications tailored to core business functions. This integrated approach significantly reduces the learning curve for users, providing a singular solution to multiple challenges while ensuring maximum simplicity for our SME clients.
We encourage you to explore the article:
1) The Development of the 1P360S Platform
