Free cybersecurity tool can help Wisconsin small businesses
losing valuable customers, time and money, the Wisconsin Small Business Development Center
(SBDC) Network has launched a free cybersecurity tool.
“Small Business, Big Threat” -- www.smallbusinessbigthreat.com/Wisconsin -- offers a
confidential risk assessment and cybersecurity resource overview for small business owners and
employees who are nontechnical. The web tool was originally developed by the Michigan SBDC
in 2015 with support from the U.S. Small Business Administration.
“This hourlong assessment is a great starting point to arm business owners with information that
can otherwise seem overwhelming,” said Bon Wikenheiser, state SBDC director. “Business that
ditch the ‘it won’t happen to me’ mentality can understand and avoid threats from phishing,
malware and password hacking. Even a lost smartphone or tablet could be a problem if left in the
wrong hands.”
Damages from cybercrime globally are predicted to cost $6 trillion annually by 2021, up from $3
trillion in 2015, according to a report by Cybersecurity Ventures. According to UPS Capital:
“Small businesses need resources so they can guard against cyberattacks or deal with their
aftermath,” Wikenheiser said. “This tool increases the cybersecurity awareness of small business
owners and fosters a safer, more vibrant business economy.”
Once participants complete their “Small Business, Big Threat” risk assessment, they can connect
with additional training resources and tips, with the ultimate goal of creating and acting on a plan
to protect their business for the future.
About Wisconsin SBDC Network
The Wisconsin Small Business Development Center is a statewide network supporting
entrepreneurs and business owners through no-cost, confidential consulting and business education. Regional SBDC experts facilitate improvement and growth for small and emerging mid-size companies and help launch successful new enterprises. The Wisconsin SBDC is hosted
by the University of Wisconsin System Administration. http://www.wisconsinSBDC.org