In 2024, some of the biggest data breaches hit multiple industries, exposing vulnerabilities that impact businesses of all sizes. For small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio, these breaches underscore the importance of robust cybersecurity practices. With major players being hacked, your business might be a target too. Here’s a look at the top five data breaches and steps your business can take to prevent becoming the next statistic.
1. National Public Data Breach
Recently, a massive data breach exposed personal records, including Social Security numbers, of millions of people. The breach highlights the risks facing companies that handle consumer data, including customer contact and financial information. SMBs are often similarly targeted due to perceived security vulnerabilities. To safeguard sensitive data, businesses in Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio should consider adopting regular data security audits and real-time monitoring.
Pro Tip: Freeze your credit and set up alerts to protect against unauthorized access. With Service Solutions Inc., you can access a customized cybersecurity solution to keep customer information safe.
2. Ticketmaster’s Massive Breach
In April and May, Ticketmaster suffered a significant data breach impacting over 560 million customers. The breach exposed credit card data and other personal details, which has led to unauthorized transactions and identity theft reports. Small businesses in Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio who manage customer payments or store sensitive data should ensure their payment processing systems are fully secure and PCI-compliant.
Service Solutions Insight: Implementing multi-layered security protocols, like tokenization and encryption, is key for businesses handling payment data. This can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to financial information.
3. Change Healthcare’s Ransomware Attack
In February, Change Healthcare suffered a ransomware attack, affecting 145 million people and compromising sensitive health information. For healthcare-related SMBs, this breach highlights the need for regular ransomware preparedness assessments and immediate action plans.
For Local Health Providers: As Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio healthcare businesses are particularly vulnerable, Service Solutions Inc. can perform a comprehensive Security Risk Assessment and help implement protocols to address vulnerabilities.
4. AT&T’s Data Exposure
In March, AT&T reported a data breach compromising data for approximately 73 million users. For any business that stores historical data, AT&T’s breach highlights the need for secure data storage and timely deletion of obsolete records. When old data is improperly protected, businesses may face significant risks.
Your Action Plan: Adopt data retention policies and consider cloud storage solutions that prioritize data encryption and access control to prevent unauthorized data exposure.
5. Dell’s Customer Data Breach
Dell experienced a breach in May when an intruder accessed 49 million customer records through one of its resellers. This breach illustrates the risks of supply chain vulnerabilities, which can impact even the smallest businesses in Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio.
Strengthen Your Security: By securing your own network and ensuring third-party vendors follow strict cybersecurity protocols, your business can minimize exposure to potential attacks.
Protect Your Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio Business with a Free Security Risk Assessment from Service Solutions Inc.
Service Solutions Inc. understands the unique cybersecurity needs of SMBs in Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio. We’re here to help safeguard your business from cyber threats with a FREE Security Risk Assessment tailored specifically for regional companies. Our expert team will assess your network vulnerabilities, offer practical solutions, and guide you through the essential steps to ensure your business is protected.
In today’s digital landscape, the proactive steps you take to secure your business can make all the difference. Contact Service Solutions Inc. today to schedule your FREE assessment and fortify your business against cyber threats.
Click here to schedule or call our office at 502-632-3481.
