Ransomware, phishing, data leaks — the headlines are loud. But what's really needed for SMEs and what's overkill? At Vorlyo we run security audits for SMEs and keep seeing the same issues. This article: the basics in order, without unnecessary panic or expensive consultants.
Top 5 threats for SMEs
- Phishing emails — by far the #1 entry point, often targeted at a specific staff member
- Weak passwords — reused across accounts or never changed
- Outdated software — WordPress plugins, Windows updates that never happen
- Data leaks via suppliers — your customer data also lives at your bookkeeper/CRM
- Lost laptop/phone without disk encryption = instant problem
What to sort today
Minimum checklist: ✓ 2-factor auth on email and critical accounts ✓ Password manager for every staff member (1Password, Bitwarden) ✓ Automatic updates on all devices ✓ Offsite and encrypted backups ✓ Disk encryption on all laptops ✓ Phishing training (1 hour per quarter)
This doesn't cost tens of thousands — usually €50–200 per person per year — but covers 80% of the real risk.
GDPR — what's really required?
- Processing register — overview of which personal data you process and why
- Privacy statement on your website (and up to date)
- Data processing agreements with all your suppliers (bookkeeper, host, CRM)
- Data-breach procedure — what do you do within 72 hours if something goes wrong?
- Cookie banner that actually works (no "all on" tricks)
Website-specific security
For your website pay extra attention to:
- HTTPS everywhere, including subdomains — no mixed content
- Security headers (CSP, X-Frame-Options, HSTS) — free check via securityheaders.com
- Form validation on both client and server side
- Rate limiting on login and contact forms
- WordPress? — pick a well-secured theme, limit plugins, automatic updates on
Help from Vorlyo
Vorlyo can run a full security audit on your website and infrastructure. We check the basics (SSL, headers, leaks, GDPR) and deliver a clear report with priorities and concrete actions. Request a tailored quote.