If even robust and highly structured institutions suffer cyberattacks, small businesses are even more exposed. A recent example was confirmed by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, which classified the attack on the federal courts’ system as ‘sophisticated and persistent’ earlier this month. The incident reinforces an important warning: cybercrimes are not limited to large corporations and often target smaller businesses with fewer protection resources.
According to José Miguel, pre-sales manager at Unentel, the false sense of security is one of the biggest risks for small businesses today. ‘Many believe digital criminals are only interested in large companies, but the truth is smaller businesses are targeted precisely because they are more vulnerable,’ he states.
In Brazil, the numbers show the risk is real. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, there were, on average, over 2,600 attacks per company each week, according to Check Point Research’s report—a 21% increase compared to the same period the previous year. In Latin America, the growth was even more pronounced: 108%.
Today, having measures to protect data and operations is basic for any business operating in the digital environment. An attack can crash systems, damage customer relationships, and generate losses capable of threatening a company’s continuity. Investing in cybersecurity, therefore, is acting with responsibility and long-term vision.
‘It’s time to treat cybersecurity as an essential pillar for the survival and sustainable growth of small businesses. Ignoring this is like leaving the door open and hoping no one notices,’ concludes José Miguel.
