How to Prepare for Growing Cyber Threats

Cyber threats have become an everyday reality for every company and individual. Kristo Karu, Head of Infrastructure and Cloud Services at Primend, shared practical insights in his recent webinar on how to better protect yourself and your organization.

What Are Cyber Threats and How Do You Recognize Them?

Most cyberattacks aim to steal data, extort money, or disrupt operations. Common attack vectors include malware, phishing, social engineering, and password leaks. Attackers often exploit both technical and human weaknesses—such as urgent scam emails or outdated software.
It’s also important to remember that threats aren’t limited to the digital world. Physical security - like office access or photos shared on social media - can provide attackers with valuable information.

SMBs Are “Easy Targets”

Small and medium-sized businesses are frequently targeted because security investments are often insufficient or postponed “until next year’s budget.” In Estonia, the number of cyber incidents has doubled in recent years, and in the first ten months of 2025 alone, the number has already exceeded 10,000 cases. The average direct financial loss is estimated at around €40,000—money that could have been far more effectively spent on prevention rather than damage control.

Who Are the Attackers?

Cybercrime today is a professional industry. Organized groups operate like real companies: they have workflows, “customer support,” and a clear profit motive.
Additional risks come from insider threats (financial motives, conflicts, negligence), vulnerabilities in partner and subcontractor networks, and state-backed groups focused on espionage, influence operations, and service disruption. Even hobbyists or inexperienced experimenters can accidentally hit a weak spot.

How to Protect Yourself

Password policies and MFA: long, unique passwords, password managers, and multi-factor authentication everywhere possible.
Continuous updates: OS, applications, firmware. Isolate old legacy systems.
Backup strategy: 3-2-1 and GFS (daily–weekly–monthly/quarterly). Test recovery; don’t rely solely on built in recycle bins.
Network security: application/web traffic control, intrusion detection and filtering (e.g., UTM), rule based access, segmentation.
Device and mobile management: Intune policies, BitLocker/FileVault, app level MAM; restrict outdated Android versions if needed.
Secure remote work: Zero Trust principles and Global Secure Access/VPN - access only for compliant devices, from valid locations, by verified users.
Awareness and training: regular phishing simulations, micro learning, and real world scenarios. Small weekly lessons work better than one long annual lecture.

What to Do If an Attack Happens?

Stay calm, document everything (screenshots, timeline), notify IT, and if necessary, CERT and the police. Quick action and transparent communication help minimize damage and improve preparedness for the future.
Cyber threats affect all of us-professionally and personally. Awareness, preventive measures, and open communication are essential to protecting your data and reputation. Cybersecurity is no longer just the IT department’s responsibility; it’s a shared duty across the entire organization.
If you’d like a practical checklist, simulations, or technical implementation support (Intune, UTM, Zero Trust), feel free to reach out.
 

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