In today’s digital age, the idea of hacking isn’t just something reserved for movies or high-tech heists. It’s real, relentless, and evolving fast—and it’s no longer just about stealing a few dollars from your business.
The truth? Cybercriminals are now targeting your identity, accounts, operations, and reputation. From locking down systems with ransomware to stealing sensitive client data, the attacks are smarter and the stakes are higher.
Here are the 3 most common forms of hacking businesses face today—and why proactive cybersecurity is more essential than ever:
1. Phishing:
Phishing is the digital version of a baited hook. These scams trick your employees into clicking a malicious link or downloading a fake attachment, usually disguised as an email from a trusted source like a vendor, bank, or co-worker.
Why it’s dangerous:
- Just one click can open the door to malware or credential theft.
- Hackers can use access to move laterally across your systems undetected.
- Business emails can be spoofed to manipulate clients or vendors, damaging trust.
Real-world impact: A single phishing email can cost a small law firm $80,000 in stolen funds because an employee unknowingly gave away login credentials.
2. Ransomware:
This one’s the most brutal. Ransomware infects your systems and locks all your data—files, emails, applications—until you pay a ransom. Often, payment is demanded in cryptocurrency, making the transactions difficult to trace.
It’s not just about the money:
- Hackers now threaten to release your private data publicly if you don’t pay.
- They can freeze payroll systems, client records, and even backup files.
- Businesses can be down for days or even weeks, costing thousands in lost revenue.
The average cost of a ransomware attack for SMBs is $5.13 million, including ransom, downtime, recovery, and reputational damage (IBM, 2023).
3. Business Scams & Social Engineering:
Forget brute force—this is all about deception. Hackers pose as CEOs, vendors, or even IT support to convince employees to transfer funds, share passwords, or grant access.
These scams include:
- Fake invoices or wire transfer requests.
- Phone calls posing as IT support asking for login credentials.
- Fraudulent websites mimicking real login portals.
What makes it effective?
Unfortunately, humans are the weak point. With just a bit of research, scammers can convincingly impersonate anyone in your company.
Why It’s No Longer Just About “Stealing Money”
Today’s hackers are:
- Encrypting your systems and selling your data on the dark web.
- Cloning your identity and gaining access to connected networks.
- Using stolen credentials to target your clients, vendors, or investors.
This is about control, not just cash. It’s about holding your operations hostage—and the longer it takes to respond, the more you stand to lose.
The Plus Inc. Solution: Proactive Cybersecurity That Actually Works
At Plus Inc., we go beyond “IT support.” We help businesses implement real-world, preventative measures to protect against modern cyber threats—including:
- Secure print and data workflows
- Endpoint protection (yes, even for your printers and fax machines)
- Staff cybersecurity training
- Encrypted backups and disaster recovery solutions
Cybersecurity isn’t optional anymore. It’s a core part of doing business—and protecting the trust you’ve worked hard to build.
Ready to protect your people, your data, and your reputation? Schedule a free IT risk assessment with Plus Inc today. We’ll help you build a plan that keeps the bad guys out—before it’s too late.
