Cyber Monday Isn’t Just About Deals, It’s About Defending Your Small Business

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Cyber Monday continues to be the biggest online shopping day of the year – and unfortunately, one of the busiest days for cybercriminals.

While consumers are hunting for deals, hackers are scanning for vulnerabilities, especially within small businesses.

If you’re a small business owner, you already know that cybersecurity isn’t just a tech issue, it’s a business risk. A single breach can compromise sensitive data, disrupt operations, and lead to costly recovery efforts. And with threats evolving quickly, staying ahead of them is more important than ever.

We’ve seen firsthand how even well-prepared small businesses can be caught off guard by cyber threats. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s progress, and we’re here to help make that easier.Lydia Moore, Vice President of Insurance and Risk Management

Why Cyber Threats Are Rising for Small Businesses

Cybercriminals increasingly target small businesses not because they’re unaware, but because they often don’t have access to the same level of protection as larger organizations. And the numbers show just how widespread the risk has become:

These aren’t just statistics, they’re signals that even well-run, well-prepared businesses can be vulnerable. But with the right tools and support, you can reduce risk and respond with confidence.

Policies and Protections That Matter

Most small business owners already have some cybersecurity measures in place. Strengthening those foundations can make a big difference. Here are a few key areas to revisit:

1. Acceptable Use Policy

Clarify how employees should access and use company systems, data, and devices.

2. Password & Access Management

Encourage strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA).

3. Data Backup & Recovery Plan

Ensure systems can recover quickly after an attack. Downtime can be just as damaging as the breach itself.

4. Employee Cyber Awareness Training

Human error remains the top cause of breaches. Ongoing education and phishing simulations can help.

5. Cyber Liability Insurance

Financial protection matters. Yet only 17% of SMBs currently carry cyber insurance.

How a PEO Can Strengthen Your Cyber Protection

Partnering with a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) can help small businesses access enterprise-level protections without the complexity or cost of building them alone.

Through OneDigital’s PEO, small business clients benefit from:

  • Built-in Cyber Protection Coverage: A cyber insurance policy included with your PEO partnership, helping close coverage gaps.
  • HR & Compliance Support: Guidance to help you build strong internal policies and response plans.
  • Secure HR Technology: Cloud-based systems designed to protect sensitive employee and payroll data.
  • Access to Expert Resources: Advisors who understand both business operations and cyber risk, helping you stay ahead of evolving threats.
Cybersecurity is no longer optional. With the right partner and a few core controls in place, small businesses can build resilience that protects their operations and their reputation.Lydia Moore, Vice President of Insurance and Risk Management

Cyber Monday Is a Moment to Check In

This Cyber Monday, while your team may be focused on seasonal sales or promotions, it’s also a good time to pause and ask:

  • Do we have clear cybersecurity policies in place?
  • Are our employees trained to spot suspicious emails or links?
  • Is our sensitive data properly encrypted, backed up, and insured?
  • Do we have the right coverage if something goes wrong?
  • Are we leveraging a partner to help reduce cyber risk?

If you’re unsure, or if your current setup leaves you exposed, we’re here to help.

Let’s Strengthen Your Cyber Defenses Together

Cyber threats are real, but they don’t have to define your business. With OneDigital’s PEO, you can protect your people, your data, and your future with built-in cyber coverage, expert HR support, and smart policies that grow with you. Our Small Business Essentials Resource Hub offers practical tools, insights, and solutions designed to help you manage risk, support your team, and stay competitive in today’s digital landscape.

Contact us today to evaluate your current protections and learn how a PEO partnership can help safeguard your business year-round!

Sources:

[1] Qualysec "52 Small Business Cyber Attack Statistics for 2025."
[2] ITPro. "Credential theft has surged 160% in 2025."
[3] TechRadar Pro "SMBs most at risk of data breaches - billions of records compromised so far, here's how to stay safe."
[4] PurpleSec "The True Cost Of A Data Breach To Small Business."
[5] America's Small Business Network "2025 cybercrime wave targets SMBs lacking basic protection."

Publish Date:Nov 12, 2025Categories:Small Business Essentials