Cybersecurity best practices for small businesses are no longer optional—they are essential, especially for small, rural agricultural enterprises. These businesses often operate under the false assumption that their small size or remote location shields them from cyberattacks. However, as Lauri M. Baker, Cheryl R. Boyer, and Russell Boyer emphasize in their study  Selling Safely: Cybersecurity Best Practices for Small, Rural Ag Businesses, small businesses are increasingly at risk due to limited cybersecurity measures, making them attractive targets for hackers.

 The Growing Cyber Threat in Small Business Sector

Contrary to popular belief, hackers do not solely focus on large corporations. In fact, cybercriminals frequently target small businesses because they often lack robust cybersecurity best practices for small businesses. This vulnerability offers hackers easier access and reduced risk of detection, as smaller enterprises typically do not have the resources to implement the same level of defense as larger organizations. 

A 2021 study by Felton revealed that many small business owners underestimate the value of their data and assume their size exempts them from needing stringent cybersecurity measures. Unfortunately, this false sense of security leaves them susceptible to attacks that can cripple their operations.

Types of Cyber Attacks: Phishing and Malware

Two of the most common cyberattacks that target small businesses are phishing and malware. Phishing, a social engineering tactic, is where cybercriminals send deceptive emails to trick recipients into exposing sensitive information, such as usernames and passwords. Small businesses are especially vulnerable, as employees may not be trained to recognize phishing attempts. Meanwhile, malware refers to malicious software that disrupts computer operations, slows down systems, or steals sensitive data. Ransomware, one of the most damaging forms of malware, locks a business’s critical files until a ransom is paid.

 Implementing Cybersecurity Best Practices for Small Rural Agricultural Businesses

To safeguard against cyberattacks, Baker, Boyer, and Boyer outline seven essential cybersecurity best practices for small businesses, tailored specifically to the needs of rural agricultural enterprises:

1. Develop a Cybersecurity Plan

   Creating a proactive cybersecurity plan is crucial for small businesses. A well-structured plan can help businesses respond quickly to cyber threats and minimize damage.

2. Educate Employees on Cybersecurity

   A trained workforce is one of the most effective ways to implement cybersecurity best practices for small businesses. Regular training sessions can help employees recognize phishing scams and other common cyber threats.

3. Install Anti-malware Software

   Every work device should be equipped with anti-malware software. Ensure that software is regularly updated to provide maximum protection against emerging threats.

4. Back Up Data Using Cloud Storage  

   Utilizing cloud storage services is one of the most effective cybersecurity best practices for small businesses. Cloud storage ensures that businesses can recover their data quickly in the event of a cyberattack.

5. Use Strong Passwords  

   Ensuring strong password practices is a simple but vital step in securing business data. Complex passwords should be a minimum of eight characters and changed regularly.

6. Commit to Regular Updates

   Keeping all software and systems updated is critical. Updates often address newly discovered vulnerabilities, making them an essential part of cybersecurity best practices for small businesses.

7. Limit Data Access

Not all employees need access to sensitive data. Limiting access ensures that only authorized personnel can handle critical information, reducing the chances of a breach.

In conclusion, small agricultural businesses should not ignore cybersecurity. As Baker, Boyer, and Boyer point out, being prepared for a potential attack can save time, money, and even the survival of a business. While no system can guarantee absolute protection, adhering to cybersecurity best practices for small businesses ensures a faster recovery in case of an attack.

This blog is a summary of the study by Lauri M. Baker, Cheryl R. Boyer, and Russell Boyer. To read the entire study, visit [Selling Safely: Cybersecurity Best Practices for Small, Rural Ag Businesses](https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-WC416-2022).