Dr. KK explained that many SMBs mistakenly believe they are “too small” to be targeted by cybercriminals. However, he stressed, “There are two types of businesses—those that have been breached and know it, and those that have been breached but don’t know it yet.” This approach helps SMBs understand that any business handling customer or corporate data is a potential target. Dr. KK emphasizes that cybersecurity awareness is the first step toward simplifying cybersecurity for small businesses.
For SMBs just starting out, Dr. KK recommends several practical steps. First, he encourages them to foster cybersecurity awareness among employees, as people often remain the weakest link in security. Training employees to recognize phishing emails and scams can prevent many breaches. Additionally, he advises businesses to consider privacy when using new technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI). “AI is powerful,” he said, “but don’t feed it sensitive information without knowing the risks.” These foundational steps help with simplifying cybersecurity for many SMBs.
At Cyber Ethos, Dr. KK provides cybersecurity solutions for SMBs that fit specific needs and budgets. One popular service is the Virtual CISO (vCISO), which gives SMBs executive-level cybersecurity guidance on a part-time basis. This service allows businesses to benefit from the expertise of a Chief Information Security Officer without the high costs, ensuring that even smaller companies access strategic cybersecurity support.
Cyber Ethos also assists SMBs with compliance frameworks, such as ISO 27001 and Essential Eight (Australia’s cybersecurity maturity model). For businesses that can’t afford full certifications, Dr. KK’s team offers fit-for-purpose guidance. This service aligns SMBs with best practices to maximize protection while remaining manageable, thus simplifying cybersecurity for SMBs and keeping them protected.
As cybersecurity evolves, Dr. KK remains committed to bridging the gap between large enterprises and SMBs. Cyber Ethos works with current business leaders and also trains young entrepreneurs to prioritize cybersecurity from the outset. Dr. KK believes in “planting the cyber seed” early to ensure future business owners see cybersecurity as a core part of their operations, thus simplifying cybersecurity for the next generation of SMBs.
Dr. KK’s dedication to cybersecurity goes beyond business; it’s his mission. Through Cyber Ethos, he aims to make cybersecurity accessible to businesses of all sizes. His team even offers free initial audits, which allow SMBs to assess their current cybersecurity status without financial pressure. Dr. KK also stresses the need for board members and executives to prioritize cybersecurity, as it has become a top business concern, not just a technical one. This accessible approach resonates with his mission of simplifying cybersecurity for SMBs.
For businesses looking to strengthen their cybersecurity, Cyber Ethos provides a range of tailored services that fit various needs and budgets. To learn more, visit Cyber Ethos or connect with Dr. Kiran Kewalramani on LinkedIn. You can also view Cyber Ethos’ offerings on the Ofofo Marketplace here.