In today's world, digital security is a challenge that small businesses can no longer ignore. Recent studies highlight the vulnerability of this segment: a 2024 GoDaddy revealed that 17% of small businesses in Brazil suffered digital security incidents in the previous year. Furthermore, a February 2025 PwC indicated that one- third of Brazilian companies faced losses of at least US$1 million due to cyberattacks in the last three years . This data reinforces the urgent need for effective digital protection measures.
However, there is still a misconception that digital security is something complex and expensive, which prevents many business owners from adopting essential measures . The good news is that there are simple and affordable solutions. With a few basic practices, any company can strengthen its defense against cyber threats.
In this article, we will explore the challenges faced by small businesses and present practical strategies to protect their data, devices, and networks in an accessible and efficient way.
The challenge of digital security for small businesses
Small businesses face a challenging landscape when it comes to digital security. Compared to large corporations, they generally have limited budgets and fewer resources dedicated to technology. This can make it difficult to adopt sophisticated security solutions, which often require investments in expensive hardware and software, as well as a specialized technical team. Many business owners struggle to find a balance between the need to protect their operations and the cost involved in implementing security measures.
Furthermore, they face greater exposure to cyberattacks due to the perception of simpler defenses. This makes them vulnerable to attacks such as phishing , ransomware , and even data management failures, which can severely compromise business operations. The absence of a well-structured IT infrastructure further exacerbates these risks, making digital protection a constant challenge.
Another obstacle is the lack of technical knowledge in cybersecurity. Many business owners don't know where to start or what solutions are truly necessary to protect their networks and systems. This creates a barrier that prevents the implementation of good security practices. However, as awareness of digital security grows, more and more companies are adopting measures to reduce their exposure to threats.
The misconception that cybersecurity is expensive and complex
One of the most common misconceptions among small businesses is that cybersecurity is expensive and difficult to implement. This is mainly due to the association of digital security with complex solutions that require large investments in cutting-edge technology and highly specialized professionals. However, the reality is different: there are several affordable and easy-to-use solutions that guarantee effective protection without complications.
Furthermore, the abundance of automated solutions on the market facilitates the implementation of security strategies in small businesses. Antivirus software, firewalls, and network monitoring systems are effective and easy-to-use solutions that can be configured quickly, without the need for an internal IT team. In other words, the cost of implementing good digital security is actually much lower than the cost a company would incur to deal with the consequences of a cyberattack.
Delaying the adoption of security measures can be a risky decision. The financial impact of a cyberattack can be far greater than the investment needed to protect the company. Fortunately, technological advancements have made cybersecurity more accessible, allowing any business to implement best practices for protection without major difficulties.
The main risks that small businesses face
Many entrepreneurs underestimate cyber risks until they face a real problem. Among the most common threats are:
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Phishing: The volume of phishing attacks in 2024 increased significantly, with a growth in the number of phishing messages in the second half of the year . These attacks aim to trick employees into stealing credentials, bank details, or confidential information. Small businesses are frequently targeted due to a lack of adequate training and protection solutions.
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Ransomware: Ransomware attacks, where criminals lock company data and demand payment for its release, reached alarming levels in 2024. In the last quarter of the year, there were 1,827 incidents , representing 33% of all ransomware attacks that year . Even paying the ransom, there is no guarantee of recovering the files, which can result in significant financial losses.
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Data breaches : the lack of protection policies can expose confidential information, generating financial damage, loss of credibility, and even lawsuits. In 2024, the number of accounts breached after data breaches grew almost eightfold worldwide, jumping from 723 million to 5.5 billion. This highlights the importance of protecting data to prevent unauthorized access.
Recent data reinforces these risks. In the 12-month period leading up to the beginning of 2025 , Brazil recorded more than 700 million cyberattacks , an average of 1,379 attacks per minute . According to a study by VULTUS Cybersecurity Ecosystem, Brazilian companies could lose approximately R$ 2.2 trillion due to cyberattacks in the next three years.
Simple and effective strategies to protect your company
The good news is that small businesses don't need complicated and expensive solutions to protect their digital operations. However, it's alarming that only 5% of organizations in Brazil have the "mature" level of preparedness necessary to defend against modern cybersecurity risks. This data highlights the urgency of adopting effective digital security practices.
The first essential strategy for digital security in small businesses is the clear definition of internal access policies . Limiting the websites and services that employees can access, as well as controlling the devices connected to the company network, is already a big step towards preventing exposure to online threats. These policies can be implemented with the help of simple solutions such as firewalls and content filtering .
Furthermore, the use of automated solutions to monitor networks and data can help detect vulnerabilities without the need for a specialized team. Real-time monitoring solutions offer an additional layer of protection, identifying attacks as soon as they occur and allowing for a rapid response. This can significantly reduce the damage caused by cyberattacks, even in companies without an advanced IT infrastructure.
Rapid implementation of internet access policies
One of the most effective ways to protect a small business is to create clear internet access policies . This includes browsing restrictions and implementing systems that block potentially dangerous websites. For example, blocking access to gaming sites , social networks , or file downloads that may contain malware can significantly reduce the chances of a cyberattack.
Implementing these policies doesn't require clear or complex solutions . Simple, easy-to-configure software , such as content filters and firewalls , can restrict access to risky websites and limit exposure to external threats . Lumiun DNS stands out as an effective solution in this regard, allowing the creation of customized filters to block unwanted websites and protect the network against malicious content . Furthermore, it can be easily integrated and monitored , offering continuous protection without complication .
Furthermore, using solutions to control connected devices, such as limiting access to unauthorized devices, helps reduce the company's vulnerability. With these basic measures, it is possible to create a safer environment, protecting the company against external threats and minimizing the risks of cyberattacks.
Control and monitoring without the need for large teams
Implementing control and monitoring systems is fundamental to ensuring the digital security of a small business. In the third quarter of 2024, the average number of cyberattacks per organization worldwide reached a record 1,876, representing a 75% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Furthermore, several automated solutions now exist that allow for real-time network and system monitoring without requiring a large IT team. Antivirus software, firewalls, and internet access control solutions can be configured to alert administrators whenever an attack attempt occurs, enabling an immediate response. Solutions like Lumiun DNS help protect the network against malicious websites, providing an additional layer of security.
These solutions are intuitive and easy to use , allowing any company, regardless of its size or technology , to implement them effectively. Furthermore, many of these solutions offer remote monitoring, which facilitates security management without the need to be physically present at the workplace.
The use of these solutions not only helps detect threats before they cause damage, but also allows for the optimization of incident response processes. With automated monitoring, companies can identify vulnerabilities and problems in real time, improving security efficiency without the need for full-time human resources.
Awareness as an essential pillar of digital security
Employee awareness is one of the most important pillars of digital protection for a small business. Cyberattacks often occur due to human error , such as clicking on malicious links or using weak passwords. Therefore, promoting regular training on security best practices is essential to prevent these types of failures.
These training sessions don't need to be long or complex . They can be simple, covering topics such as recognizing phishing emails , creating strong passwords , and the importance of keeping software up-to-date . These educational initiatives can prevent many threats and, at the same time, strengthen the company's security posture.
Raising awareness should be an ongoing process, in which leaders constantly remind employees about the risks and how to protect themselves. Periodic retraining programs can keep digital security at the forefront, minimizing the risk of incidents related to employee behavior.
Conclusion – Simplified digital protection for small businesses
Digital security doesn't have to be an insurmountable challenge for small businesses . By adopting simple practices, such as clear internet access policies , automated monitoring solutions , and employee awareness training simple and easy-to-implement solutions like Lumiun DNS , it's possible to ensure cybersecurity protection by effectively and continuously blocking threats.
Investing in digital security is a strategic decision that can prevent financial losses and damage to a business's reputation. In the long run, companies that prioritize security not only protect their most valuable assets , but also gain the trust of their customers , who know that their data is being handled responsibly.
Therefore, small businesses should view digital security as a priority. With the right solutions and strategies, such as Lumiun DNS , any company can achieve an adequate level of protection without complications or high costs.
