Many small companies operate under a dangerous misconception: “We’re too small to be a target.” Unfortunately, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
In fact, small businesses are increasingly on the radar of cybercriminals—not despite their size, but often because of it. They’re seen as easier targets, with fewer defences and less mature security postures.
The Real Risk: Growth Without Guardrails
Many small companies experience rapid growth—driven by innovation, market traction, or successful funding rounds. New products launch, teams expand, revenue climbs. But in this surge of momentum, cybersecurity is often an afterthought.
It’s not always about the budget.
In many cases, companies have the money—they just don’t know who to hire or what to prioritize. The complexity of scaling a business can blur the urgency of securing it. And without a clear roadmap, even a generous security budget can be misallocated or underutilized.
The Core Cybersecurity Roles You Need First
Strengthening your security doesn’t mean hiring a full-blown security team overnight. But bringing in three core cybersecurity experts, even part-time or contract-based, can create a massive shift in your resilience:
Cybersecurity Consultant
Your trusted strategic partner in security. They evaluate your current risk landscape, craft a tailored security roadmap, establish robust policies, and navigate the complexities of regulatory compliance with you. Consider them your fractional CISO—delivering expert guidance and clear direction, without the commitment of a full-time hire.
Security Engineer / Architect
This role is responsible for establishing the technical foundations of security, including firewalls, identity and access management, encryption, logging, and other critical components. They transform strategic plans into functioning, resilient security systems—recognizing that even the most well-crafted policy remains ineffective without proper technical execution.
IT Support / Security Operations Specialist
This role is responsible for maintaining day-to-day security across systems, including monitoring for incidents, applying patches, and ensuring timely response to emerging issues. They play a critical role in the ongoing protection and resilience of the organization’s infrastructure.
Not sure where to begin with cybersecurity? You’re not alone. We’ve guided many small businesses through their first steps toward a more secure future. Reach out to us for a complimentary assessment of your current security posture. We’ll help you identify strategic priorities and support you in finding the right cybersecurity professional for your organization’s needs.
