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. This 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 that smaller businesses are targeted precisely because they are more vulnerable,’ he says.
In Brazil, the numbers show the risk is real. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, there were an average of over 2,600 attacks per company each week, according to Check Point Research’s report—a 21% increase from the same period the previous year. In Latin America, the growth was even more pronounced: 108%.
Today, having data and operations protection measures is fundamental for any business operating in the digital environment. An attack can bring down systems, damage customer relationships, and generate losses that threaten the company’s continuity. Investing in cybersecurity, therefore, is acting responsibly with long-term vision.
‘It’s time to see 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.
