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- Outdated software: WordPress plugins, Windows updates that never happen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)
Costs differ by provider and management model. MFA and a password manager reduce common account attacks, but do not replace updates, backups, access control and incident response.
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.