Decades ago, even multinational companies operated efficiently without screens or digital systems. Cyberattacks weren’t on anyone’s radar.
Today, technology is the backbone of nearly every business—and with it comes an evolving set of risks. Yet persistent misconceptions still prevent leaders from proactively safeguarding their operations. Here are five of the most damaging myths—and why addressing them is imperative.
1. “Cybercrime only happens to others”
It’s a common mindset to assume cyberattacks won’t happen to you. In reality, incidents have surged over 300% since 2021, as reported in the Microsoft Digital Defense Report.
“A bad actor, thousands of kilometers away, can stop all the farm’s robots cold. Stop the cows from being milked and send a nice email for a ransom.”
If your organization depends on connected systems—and generates revenue—you are inherently exposed.
2. “We’re too small to be attacked”
Many believe only large enterprises are targets. But cybercriminals operate sophisticated networks that indiscriminately attack thousands of businesses in parallel.
“Not lone fishermen, but fleets of trawlers capturing all they can, by the ton.”
Small and medium enterprises are often the primary targets simply because they outnumber large corporations—and are less prepared.
3. “We have nothing worth stealing”
If you run a business, you hold assets that cybercriminals value—financial data, customer records, intellectual property, and more.
“They will spend months in your systems… until they have figured out two things: what is important to you and how much you are willing (and able) to pay to get it back.”
Attackers exploit this intelligence to maximize leverage in a ransom scenario.
4. “Our data is safe in the cloud”
Cloud providers secure their infrastructure, but protecting your data is your responsibility.
“Picture that you are hiring a security company. They will guard the access to your lot… but they will not manage what happens inside your house.”
Relying solely on cloud providers without internal safeguards leaves critical gaps.
5. “We have adequate insurance”
Insurance can help recover losses—but it does not prevent attacks or mitigate immediate damage.
“Far better – and usually much cheaper – to avoid a fire than to recover from one.”
A robust strategy requires proactive defenses, detection, and response capabilities—not just financial coverage.
“I strongly believe in making cybersecurity accessible, so that all business owners are in a position to understand and support cybersecurity initiatives within their company.”
As a leader, it’s your responsibility to challenge outdated beliefs. If your business has valuable data, reputation, or revenue streams, you are a potential target.
Approach cybersecurity with the same diligence as locking your office doors. Your assets are worth protecting. Take proactive measures now—before an attack forces you to rebuild from scratch.