Cybersecurity threats are growing stronger every year, and small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs) in Long Beach are still making the same risky mistakes in 2025. While large enterprises have security teams and strong defenses, many SMBs don’t have the resources or awareness to protect themselves properly. Unfortunately, this makes them an easy target for hackers, phishing scams, and data breaches. In this article, we will look at the most common cybersecurity mistakes Long Beach SMBs continue to make in 2025. We’ll also offer practical solutions and explain how a trusted IT partner like Consilien IT Company can help keep your business safe.
Why Cybersecurity Is Still a Problem for Long Beach SMBs
Many SMBs believe that cybercriminals only go after big corporations. This mindset is a mistake. Cyber attackers often target smaller businesses because they are easier to exploit. In 2025, ransomware attacks, email scams, and data leaks are becoming more common and more damaging. Let’s look at the top cybersecurity mistakes businesses in Long Beach are still making.
Top Cybersecurity Mistakes in 2025
Many small businesses in Long Beach still face serious cybersecurity risks in 2025. Understanding the most common mistakes can help you protect your company from costly breaches and keep your data safe from growing online threats.
1. Weak Password Policies
Many employees still use simple passwords like “123456” or “password,” and some reuse the same password across multiple platforms. Without strong password policies, it’s easy for attackers to break in.
Fix: Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) and require complex, unique passwords. Use password managers to help staff store credentials securely.
2. No Regular Data Backups
When ransomware hits, businesses that don’t have backups lose access to all their data. Without regular backups, recovery can take days—or may not be possible at all.
Fix: Automate regular backups to both cloud and offline storage. Test your backups regularly to make sure they can be restored.
3. Lack of Employee Training
One of the easiest ways for hackers to break into a company is by tricking employees through phishing emails or fake websites.
Fix: Train staff regularly on how to spot phishing attempts, suspicious links, and scams. Make cybersecurity part of your regular business training.
4. Outdated Software and Systems
Many SMBs still use old operating systems or software versions, which no longer receive security updates. This leaves major gaps for attackers to exploit.
Fix: Keep all systems and software updated. Set up automatic updates or work with an IT provider to manage patches and upgrades.
5. No Incident Response Plan
When a breach happens, many businesses don’t know what to do. They panic, waste time, and often make things worse.
Fix: Create a simple incident response plan. Know who to contact, how to isolate affected systems, and how to report issues quickly.
6. Ignoring Mobile Device Security
Employees often use smartphones and tablets for work, but these devices are not always secured like desktop computers.
Fix: Require mobile device management (MDM), screen locks, and data encryption on all devices used for work purposes.
7. Weak or No Firewalls
Some SMBs rely only on basic router security or outdated antivirus software, which is not enough in today’s threat landscape.
Fix: Install business-grade firewalls and keep them updated. Combine firewalls with modern endpoint protection tools.
8. Lack of Cyber Insurance
In the event of a breach, the cost of recovery, legal fees, and customer notification can be overwhelming.
Fix: Consider cyber insurance to help cover financial losses in case of a cyber event. It’s a smart safety net for small businesses.
9. Poor Vendor Management
If your business relies on third-party vendors or cloud services, you’re also exposed to their cybersecurity risks.
Fix: Assess vendor security practices, especially if they handle sensitive data. Only work with trusted providers who meet compliance standards.
10. No Ongoing Security Monitoring
Many businesses only react to problems after something goes wrong. Without monitoring, it’s hard to detect issues before damage is done.
Fix: Use 24/7 security monitoring and threat detection tools that can alert you to unusual behavior before it becomes a bigger issue.
Common Cybersecurity Mistakes in 2025 and How to Fix Them
| Mistake | Impact | Simple Fix |
| Weak passwords | Easy for hackers to guess | Enforce strong passwords + MFA |
| No data backups | Data loss from ransomware | Automate cloud & offline backups |
| No employee training | Phishing attacks and scams | Ongoing cybersecurity training |
| Outdated software | Security flaws and exploits | Enable regular updates and patching |
| No response plan | Panic during attacks | Write a simple incident response guide |
| Insecure mobile devices | Breach from phones or tablets | Use MDM and encryption |
| Poor firewall protection | Increased vulnerability | Use business-grade firewalls |
| No cyber insurance | High recovery costs | Get basic cyber insurance |
| Weak vendor security | Risks from third-party apps | Assess vendor cybersecurity |
| No security monitoring | Delayed breach detection | Install 24/7 threat monitoring tools |
Real Examples of SMB Cybersecurity Issues
Here are some real-life examples showing how cybersecurity mistakes have affected small and mid-sized businesses in Long Beach. These cases highlight the importance of proper protection and quick action to avoid serious damage and losses.
Phishing Scams in Local Accounting Firms
Several small accounting firms in Long Beach reported losses in early 2025 due to phishing emails disguised as client inquiries. In most cases, staff unknowingly clicked on malicious links or gave away credentials.
Lesson: Even businesses with limited online operations can be victims if they don’t train employees on what to watch out for.
Ransomware Attack on a Retail Store
A Long Beach-based retailer was locked out of their sales systems due to a ransomware attack. They had no backup, and it took three weeks to recover. The company lost both sales and customer trust.
Lesson: Regular backups and fast response planning could have prevented extended downtime.
How Consilien IT Company Helps Long Beach SMBs Stay Secure
At Consilien IT Company, we understand the challenges that small businesses face when trying to manage cybersecurity. We’ve been helping businesses across Long Beach and Southern California for over 20 years by providing practical, no-nonsense IT support.
Here’s what we offer to keep your business protected:
- 24/7 threat monitoring
- Regular security updates and patch management
- Managed backups and disaster recovery plans
- Cybersecurity training for your staff
- Firewall and network protection
- Incident response planning
- Vendor risk assessment
We don’t sell hype we deliver real protection that fits your business and your budget.
Conclusion
Cybersecurity mistakes can cost your business time, money, and customer trust. In 2025, the risks are only growing, and attackers are getting smarter. Don’t let your business be an easy target. Consilien IT Company is here to help Long Beach SMBs fix these issues before they become problems. Whether you need basic protection or a full security package, we have the tools and team to support you. Call us today or visit our website to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you secure your business the right way without the confusion.
