Cybersecurity Month

Published on: October 1, 2025 Published in: Blog

Every October, MMIT celebrates Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a time when we focus on educating businesses on how to stay safe and protect their valuable information. Cybersecurity Month began in 2004 as a national effort and has grown into a yearly reminder that staying safe online is essential. The message of Cybersecurity Month is simple: most security breaches can be prevented, but mistakes still happen. In fact, 95% of data breaches are caused by human error, according to InfoSecurity Magazine. That’s why this month is a good reminder for small and mid-sized businesses in Iowa to act. In this blog, we’ll explore why cybersecurity matters, the top threats in 2025, and the best practices to follow to save your business.

Why Cybersecurity Awareness Month Matters for Small Businesses

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is very important for small and mid-sized businesses. Attackers often target small businesses because they usually have fewer resources than large companies, which makes them easier to steal valuable information from. Many small business owners, unfortunately, believe myths such as “We are too small to be a target,” “Antivirus software is enough,” or “Cybersecurity is too expensive.” Contrary to these myths, 40% of targeted attacks are aimed at small businesses, and the average cost of a breach can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars. To make matters worse, it can take more than 200 days for a company to even realize that they have been breached (IBM). For central Iowa small businesses, these risks aren’t just day-to-day problems – they can threaten the entire business. That is why education and action are so critical.

Cybersecurity myths vs facts for small businesses in Iowa. Myths: antivirus is enough, small businesses aren’t targets. Facts: 40% of attacks target small businesses, breaches can cost hundreds of thousands. MMIT Business Solutions Group.

Top Cybersecurity Threats Businesses Face in 2025

Cyber threats are always changing and evolving, but small businesses are often the first to feel the impact. In 2025, the biggest risks to watch out for include:

Phishing Scams – These are fake emails or messages that look real but are meant to trick you into clicking a bad link or giving away a password. Over 90% of cyberattacks start this way (Proofpoint).
Ransomware Attacks – This is when criminals lock your files and demand money to give them back. Some also steal your data and threaten to share it unless you pay. The average cost of a ransomware breach was more than $5 million in 2023 (IBM).
Weak Passwords – Simple or reused passwords make it easy for attackers to break into accounts. Hackers often test stolen passwords across many websites, which puts multiple accounts at risk (CSO Online).
Cloud and Remote Work Risks – Working from home or using personal devices can create security gaps that attackers exploit. Microsoft 365, now used by over a million companies worldwide, is a common target if not set up and protected securely.

These threats can sound overwhelming, but the good news is that many can be prevented with the right training, tools, and support for your team.

Example of a phishing email with fake urgent invoice payment request and malicious link, used to warn businesses about cybersecurity threats.

4 Practices That Your Business Should Follow:

This year, the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) is focused on the Core 4, which are four simple steps that anyone can take to boost online safety. For small and mid-sized businesses, these actions are a great starting point. The good news is that protecting your business doesn’t always mean spending a lot of money. A few smart habits can go a long way towards keeping your information safe:

Use Strong Passwords
Weak or reused passwords are one of the easiest ways hackers get in. Make sure every account has a unique password, and consider using a password manager to keep track of them. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) also offers a helpful guide on creating strong, memorable passwords and safely managing them with tools like password managers.

Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Adding multi-factor authentication means logging in requires more than just a password, like entering a code sent to your phone. This extra step makes it much harder for attackers to break in, and it can also alert you if someone else is trying to access your account.

Keep Software Updated
Updates don’t just add new features; they also fix security holes. Running old software is like leaving your front door unlocked for criminals. Always install updates for your devices, apps, and systems.

Cybersecurity Training
Most breaches start with human error. Teaching employees how to spot phishing emails and running simple simulations can help stop attacks before they succeed. Cybersecurity training for Iowa businesses is one of the most effective ways to reduce phishing risks.

By focusing on the Core 4, businesses can build a strong foundation for cybersecurity, but if you want to take your security to the next level, finding the right IT partner is the next step in protecting your business.

How MMIT Strengthens Your Organization

While Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a great reminder, at MMIT we know cybersecurity isn’t just a once-a-year conversation, it requires year-round effort. That’s where we come in.We provide Des Moines and Central Iowa small businesses with tools and support to stay ahead of today’s threats, including:

Managed IT Security Services – Continuous monitoring of your network, email, devices, and endpoint detection software to spot and stop threats before they spread.
Email and Spam Protection –We help defend against phishing, ransomware, and business email compromise by scanning links and attachments before they reach your inbox.
Data Backup and Disaster Recovery – Regular, secure backups that ensure your information can be restored quickly if something goes wrong.
Employee Training – Phishing simulations and awareness programs that reduce the risk of human error, the leading cause of breaches.

Our goal is simple: to be a partner to your business, not just a provider. We work with you to strengthen your security, train your team, and protect your most important information.

If your business is ready to take the next step, reach out to our team. Together, we can build the right security plan to keep your business protected all year long. If you’re looking for cybersecurity services from Ames to Indianola and all-over central Iowa, MMIT is your local partner in protection.

Visit MMIT Business Solutions or call (515) 251-1511 to get started.