Cyber security in 2025 is more complex than ever. Threats are constantly evolving, hackers’ tools are becoming more sophisticated, and the risks to businesses continue to grow. Yet despite greater awareness, small to medium-sized businesses still fall victim to common, avoidable mistakes, the kind that lead to costly downtime, data breaches, and potentially serious damage to reputation.
At Dial A Geek, we’ve worked with hundreds of businesses across Bristol and the South West, and we see the same problems again and again. So whether you’re just getting your cyber security strategy off the ground or want to make sure your team hasn’t missed a trick, here are some of the most common pitfalls to avoid.
1. Thinking “We’re Too Small to Be a Target”
Many business owners assume hackers are only interested in large corporations. The reality? Small and medium-sized businesses are often easier targets, precisely because they tend to have weaker defences.
According to the UK Government’s 2025 Cyber Security Breaches Survey, 31% of small businesses reported breaches or attacks in the past 12 months, and the real number is likely higher, as many go undetected or unreported.
If your business holds data, takes card payments, uses email, or relies on the internet in any way… you’re a target. Size doesn’t matter, but preparation and protection do.
2. Poor Password Hygiene
Weak, reused or easily guessed passwords remain one of the easiest ways for attackers to access accounts. Combine that with the lack of two-factor authentication (2FA) and you’re essentially leaving the door wide open. If you’re still using password123 or your dog’s name, then you won’t be alone, but you do need to change!
Best practice in 2025:
- Use a password manager (like 1Password or Bitwarden)
- Enforce 2FA on all business-critical systems
- Train staff not to reuse passwords across work and personal accounts
3. No Cyber Security Policy or Staff Training
Even the best tech in the world won’t help if your team doesn’t know what to look out for. Many cyber security incidents happen because someone unknowingly clicked a dodgy link, shared credentials over email, or sent data to the wrong person.
Yet lots of SMEs still have no formal cyber security policy, and no regular training.
Staff should understand:
- How to identify phishing emails
- What to do if they suspect an incident
- The importance of strong passwords and locking devices
- Company procedures for data handling and incident reporting
You don’t need to turn everyone into an IT expert. You just need to build awareness.
4. Outdated Software and Missed Patches
Hackers love out-of-date systems. If your operating system, software or firmware isn’t patched, you’re inviting attackers in through known vulnerabilities.
And yet, businesses still delay updates, yes, updates can be disruptive. But they’re far less disruptive than a ransomware attack.
A good IT support provider will help you set up automated patch management, so your devices stay secure without interrupting your team’s work.
5. Ignoring Cloud Configuration and Permissions
Many businesses use Microsoft 365, Google Workspace or other cloud platforms. These tools are secure — but only if configured properly.
Default settings, overly permissive sharing, and lack of MFA leave cloud systems vulnerable. We often find that companies give all users admin rights, or allow unrestricted external file sharing without knowing it.
If you’re not sure how your cloud setup stacks up, book a health check. It’s a small investment for big peace of mind.
6. No Cyber Essentials Certification
Cyber Essentials is the UK Government-backed standard for basic cyber security. It shows you’ve put controls in place to prevent the most common threats — and it’s often required for working with public sector clients.
Getting certified proves you take cyber security seriously, reassures your clients, and helps you stay compliant with GDPR. And it’s not a massive undertaking — especially with a provider like us to guide you through it.
Still, many SMEs haven’t got it.
You can learn more about the scheme at the NCSC Cyber Essentials site.
7. Poor Backup Practices
A good backup is your last line of defence. If a ransomware attack locks up your files, a recent, clean backup means you can recover without paying a penny.
But we regularly see businesses relying on:
- Outdated backup systems
- Backups stored on the same network (which get encrypted too)
- Manual backups that never get checked
Your backup should be automatic, encrypted, stored off-site, and tested regularly. Ideally, use the 3-2-1 rule: three copies, on two different media, with one stored offsite.
8. No Incident Response Plan
Something goes wrong. A dodgy email has been clicked, or your systems are behaving strangely. What do you do?
If the answer is “panic” — you need a plan.
Having an incident response process in place means your team knows who to contact, what actions to take, and how to limit damage. It could mean the difference between a minor issue and a business-critical disaster.
Even a basic checklist is better than nothing. And if you’re not sure where to start, we can help you create one.
9. DIY Security Without Expertise
It’s tempting to try to handle everything in-house, especially if you’ve got a tech-savvy team member. But unless you have specific cyber security expertise, DIY setups often fall short.
Cyber threats evolve constantly. A managed cyber security provider like Dial A Geek will monitor your systems, stay on top of emerging risks, and make sure your defences are actually working.
We don’t sell scare tactics. Just practical, professional support that keeps your business safe and your systems running smoothly.
Cyber Mistakes Are Avoidable
Cyber security doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Most breaches happen because of simple oversights — not because of super-sophisticated hacking.
If you can avoid these common mistakes, you’ll already be ahead of the game. And if you’d like a hand reviewing your current setup, then Dial a Geek are here to help.
Need a second opinion on your cyber defences?
Dial A Geek offer Cyber Security and IT consultancy to businesses in Bristol and the South West. Book a free consultation with our Bristol-based team and let’s make sure your business isn’t an easy target.
Or give us a call on 0117 369 4335.
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