Small business owners are targets for hackers. Most can’t afford an in-house cybersecurity expert, but there is an affordable alternative. On Thursday, January 9, Managed Nerds will become a regular contributor to Augusta Business Daily.
In 2021 cybercrime against small businesses reached $2.4 billion targeting 40% of small businesses. Sharon Martin and her husband Matthew Chapman own a company that aims to provide cybersecurity solutions for small businesses without breaking the bank.
“If a small business gets hacked, it’s brutally expensive because most will set a higher deductible for cyber insurance because it’s cheaper,” explained Martin.
Martin says most small businesses focus on being productive and staying in business. The challenge is starting up correctly. For example, a recent start-up distribution company set up their email and website but three weeks later they were hacked.
“Hackers love small fish. They can make around $2000 from anywhere in the world by hacking small U.S. businesses. It feeds their family for a couple of months.”
Another issue that Managed Nerds helps with is email deliverability. If you are new in business this is key to performance and profitability.
“Email has to be configured correctly, otherwise they will go to SPAM. If your business involves online ordering that could be disastrous.”
Finally, the elephant in the room, AI, Artificial Intelligence.
“There is an advantage to using AI mostly for speed and research. Some business owners may not understand the advantage. We will be offering a Lunch and Learn on the first Tuesday of every month called AI Literacy.”
For contact information, click here.
In the meantime, the North Augusta Chamber is hosting the kickoff of its 2025 season with “AI: The Future of Business Starts Here.” The keynote speaker is Matthew Jay, Partner/Chief Operating Officer, PC Techware.
Tickets need to be ordered today for the January 14th event. Click here to register: https://northaugustachamber.chambermaster.com/eventregistration/register/12641.
Editor’s Note:
Mitzi Oxford is a veteran broadcaster and features writer who also worked at the same television station in Columbus, Georgia as Augusta’s Brad Means! If you have a South Carolina story idea for Mitzi, please email her at mitzioxfordcreative@gmail.com.
