Top 5 cyber threats targeting SMBs in 2025
Cyber threats are not just a problem for large enterprises. Small and medium-sized businesses have become prime targets: they hold valuable data such as customer records, payment information and intellectual property, often without the defences of larger organisations.
Here are the five threats SMBs should be most aware of, with practical steps to defend against each.
1. AI-enhanced phishing
Phishing is not new, but it is more dangerous than ever. Criminals now use AI to write convincing emails and bogus invoices, and even to produce deepfake voice messages that imitate senior staff. The tell-tale spelling mistakes are gone.
- Train staff to recognise subtle signs of phishing
- Enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA)
- Run regular phishing simulations and awareness sessions
2. Ransomware-as-a-service
Ransomware has become a business model. With ransomware-as-a-service, even unskilled attackers can launch devastating attacks, encrypting your data and threatening to leak it unless you pay.
- Keep secure, offline backups, and test restoring them
- Keep operating systems and software up to date
- Deploy endpoint protection with continuous monitoring
3. Supply chain attacks
Even if your own security is strong, your suppliers may be the weakest link. Attackers increasingly compromise software vendors and service providers to reach their customers.
- Check suppliers’ security practices before you sign
- Limit the access you grant to third parties
- Include security clauses in contracts and service agreements
4. Cloud misconfigurations
As businesses adopt more cloud services, many unintentionally expose data to the internet through misconfigured storage, open ports or excessive permissions.
- Audit your cloud environment regularly for misconfigurations
- Apply least privilege to access control
- Enable logging and monitoring to detect suspicious activity
5. Insider threats
Insider threats, accidental or malicious, remain a constant concern. With flexible working and less direct oversight, staff can expose data or fall for scams more easily.
- Apply strict access controls and privilege management
- Monitor for unusual user behaviour or data transfers
- Build a culture of security awareness at every level