How to Protect Your Business from Cyberattacks: 4 Smart Cybersecurity Moves to Make Today

In today’s digital world, cybersecurity is no longer optional—it’s a must-have. Every day, over 2,200 cyberattacks strike businesses across the globe. From phishing scams and malware to data breaches and ransomware, these threats are growing more complex and more costly.

At McKnight Insurance Services, we work with small and mid-sized businesses across Texas who are concerned not just about the damage a cyberattack could cause—but how to prevent one in the first place. If you’re a business owner in construction, professional services, retail, or real estate, here’s what you need to know to stay ahead of the threats.

Why Cybersecurity Is Now a Business Priority

According to a recent study by The Hartford, 72% of business leaders are very concerned about cyber risks. Nearly half plan to develop or refine their cybersecurity policies in the next 12 months.

Even with cyber insurance in place, companies recognize the importance of being proactive. A good policy can help mitigate the fallout of an attack—but your first line of defense is how well you prepare.

Let’s look at four critical steps to boost your company’s cyber hygiene and reduce your risk.

1. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

Multifactor authentication (MFA) is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stop cybercriminals from accessing your systems. MFA requires users to confirm their identity using two or more methods—like a password and a code sent to their phone.

Why it matters:

• Protects against phishing attacks
• Helps prevent identity theft
• Meets compliance standards in many industries

Make sure MFA is enabled not just for employees but also for any vendors or partners accessing your systems remotely.

2. Maintain Secure, Tested Backups

Having secure backups of your data can be the difference between a quick recovery and a catastrophic loss. During a ransomware attack, for example, reliable backups allowed businesses to recover in 68% of cases—often without paying the ransom.

Here’s what to do:

• Backups should be current and stored separately from your main system
• Test backups regularly to make sure they work
• Don’t assume cloud storage equals backup—it may not be sufficient on its own

3. Prioritize System Patching

Cybercriminals often exploit known weaknesses in software and systems. In fact, 76% of cyber intrusions stem from just 10 known vulnerabilities. That means failing to update your systems puts your business at unnecessary risk.

To stay protected:

• Install security patches as soon as they’re released
• Automate updates where possible
• Work with your IT provider to perform regular vulnerability scans

4. Create a Cyber Incident Response Plan (IRP)

Even the best defenses can be breached. That’s why every business should have a documented incident response plan (IRP). This plan outlines what to do, who to call, and how to respond quickly if your systems are compromised.

A good IRP includes:

• Steps to identify, contain, and eliminate the threat
• Roles and responsibilities of key personnel
• Contact information for your cyber insurance carrier, who can help coordinate legal, technical, and remediation support

Training your team is just as important. Teach employees how to recognize phishing emails, suspicious links, and unauthorized access attempts. Your people are often the first line of defense.

Protecting Your Business With Cyber Insurance

Even with strong safeguards in place, no system is 100% secure. That’s where cyber insurance becomes essential. At McKnight Insurance Services, we help local business owners secure cyber coverage that fits their industry, operations, and risk profile.

Want to review your current cybersecurity strategy—or make sure your insurance covers the exposures that matter most?