In today’s episode, Danielle Hayden, CPA and founder of Kickstart Accounting, Inc., dives into a topic that every small business owner needs to take seriously: cybersecurity. As entrepreneurs, we’re focused on growth, profitability, and strategy, but all of that hard work can be put at risk in an instant if we fall victim to cyber threats. A single phishing email, password breach, or scam can lead to lost revenue, stolen data, and massive headaches (and let’s be real, none of us have time for that!).

But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Danielle breaks down the biggest cybersecurity threats facing small businesses and shares simple, practical steps to keep your business and finances safe.

Key Takeaways: 

• Phishing Emails & Texts Are Everywhere: Be on the lookout for fake DocuSign requests, “unpaid” toll or shipping texts, gift card scams, and urgent wire transfer emails. If something feels off, don’t click! Verify directly with the sender outside of the potential scam text or email before doing anything and immediately report it.

• Scammers Want You to Act Fast: Cybercriminals rely on urgency to trick you into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information; slow down and verify before taking action.

• Strong Passwords & Two-Step Authentication Are Essential: Using unique passwords and enabling two-step authentication makes it harder for hackers to gain access to your accounts. Yes, it’s annoying but it’s worth it!

• Backup Your Data to the Cloud: Use Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive for automatic backups so that if your device is compromised, your business documents are safe and easily recoverable.

• Trust Your Gut & Double-Check Everything: If you weren’t expecting an email, text, or request for money or information, take a moment to verify before you click or send anything! It’s always okay to say no and follow up through a secure method.

Topics Discussed:

Common Cyber Scams Targeting Small Businesses (00:01:06 – 00:03:24)

How to Spot and Avoid Phishing Emails and Text Scams (00:03:24 – 00:04:53)

Best Practices for Password Security and Two-Step Authentication (00:04:53 – 00:06:42)

Why Backing Up Your Business Data is Critical (00:06:42 – 00:07:43)

The Power of Slowing Down and Verifying Before You Click (00:07:43 – 00:09:18)

Recap of Cybersecurity Steps to Take (00:09:18 - 00:10:51)

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