Category: Governance, Risk and Complianc

Understanding Cybersecurity Roles in an SME: Who Does What?

Posted on by Cindy Martinson

Understanding Cybersecurity Roles in an SME: Who Does What?

As digital threats evolve, understanding cybersecurity roles in an SME becomes critical. Many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) assume they’re too small to be targeted—but cybercriminals often see them as easy prey. With limited resources, clearly defined small business cybersecurity responsibilities help SMEs protect sensitive data, stay compliant, and avoid costly disruptions.

Why SMEs Need Defined Cybersecurity Roles

Unlike large corporations, SMEs may not have the budget for a full IT security team. However, this doesn’t eliminate the need for key cybersecurity roles. Instead, individuals in SMEs often wear multiple hats. Establishing roles—no matter how lean your team—is the first step toward accountability and preparedness.

Key Cybersecurity Roles in an SME

Here are some essential roles even the smallest business should consider assigning:

1. Cybersecurity Lead or IT Manager

This person oversees the company’s overall cybersecurity strategy. They ensure security tools are up to date and policies are enforced.

2. Compliance and Risk Officer

Often a shared role, this individual ensures the business complies with regulations like GDPR or the NIS2 Directive. They assess risks and suggest mitigations.

3. Security Awareness Champion

Someone responsible for training staff on phishing, password safety, and social engineering. Awareness is a powerful and affordable defense.

4. Incident Response Coordinator

In the event of a breach, this role activates the response plan, communicates with stakeholders, and manages recovery.

Building a Culture of Security

Small business cybersecurity isn’t just about tools—it’s about people. Whether outsourced or internal, having the right cybersecurity roles in an SME makes a measurable difference in your overall risk posture.

To dive deeper into how small businesses can assign roles effectively, check out this SME cybersecurity role guide from ENISA.

Cyber Governance for SMEs: Navigating European Laws and Compliance in 2025

Posted on by Cindy Martinson

Cyber Governance for SMEs: Navigating European Laws and Compliance in 2025

In an increasingly connected world, cyber governance for SMEs has shifted from being a best practice to a business necessity. For small and medium-sized enterprises across Europe, keeping up with cybersecurity regulations isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about safeguarding customer trust, maintaining operational continuity, and staying competitive.

Yet many business owners still find the evolving landscape of SME cybersecurity compliance overwhelming. New laws and updates to existing regulations continue to roll out across the EU, each with its own expectations, timelines, and penalties. This post breaks down the latest developments and explains what they mean for your business in clear, simple terms.

Why Cyber Governance Matters to SMEs

Many SME owners assume cyber regulations are aimed at larger corporations—but this is no longer the case. European regulators are increasingly holding businesses of all sizes accountable for how they manage, protect, and respond to cyber threats. SMEs are often targeted by cybercriminals precisely because they’re perceived as easier to exploit.

Without a structured approach to governance, SMEs risk data breaches, service interruptions, and damage to their reputation. Implementing solid cyber governance not only reduces these risks but also prepares your business to respond effectively when incidents occur.

Key European Regulations SMEs Must Know

1. NIS2 Directive (Network and Information Security Directive 2)

The NIS2 Directive is one of the most significant updates in European cybersecurity law. Enforced from October 2024, it broadens the scope of the original NIS Directive and brings many medium-sized businesses under its obligations.

NIS2 requires affected organizations to adopt risk management practices, incident response procedures, and supply chain security controls. Even if your business isn’t directly named in the directive, you may still need to comply if you provide services to those that are. Read the full directive here.

2. Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA)

DORA became law in January 2023 and will be fully enforceable by January 2025. While focused on financial institutions, it also affects ICT service providers—including many SMEs—who must demonstrate operational resilience and the ability to recover from cyber incidents.

If your business supports banks, insurance companies, or other regulated entities, you may need to show how you manage digital risks. More on DORA here.

3. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

GDPR is still one of the most impactful data protection laws worldwide. SMEs that handle or process personal data of EU citizens—whether for marketing, sales, or customer support—must remain compliant.

Key requirements include data minimization, transparency, and breach notification. GDPR also mandates having a lawful basis for collecting and using customer data. Learn more about GDPR.

Taking the First Steps Toward Compliance

So, what does all this mean for your business?

Start with a basic cybersecurity risk assessment. Identify what data you hold, where it’s stored, and how it’s protected. From there, work toward establishing key policies: access control, password management, data backup, incident response, and employee awareness training.

The goal of cyber governance for SMEs is not to make your life harder—it’s to build resilience and trust. A strong governance framework helps you respond quickly to threats and gives regulators and clients confidence in your operations.

If you’re unsure where to begin, consider consulting a cybersecurity professional who understands the specific needs of smaller businesses. Compliance isn’t a one-time task—it’s an ongoing effort. By embedding good practices early, you avoid costly mistakes later.

Final Thoughts: Future-Proofing Your Business

The digital economy isn’t slowing down, and neither are cyber threats. SME cybersecurity compliance is now part of doing business responsibly and professionally. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, investing in cyber governance today protects your future tomorrow.

Don’t wait for a breach or a fine to take action—make cybersecurity part of your business culture now.

Starting Your IT Department: In-House with Support or Fully Outsourced?

Posted on by Cindy Martinson

Starting Your IT Department: In-House with Support or Fully Outsourced?

Setting up your IT department is a big step for any growing business. You typically have two options: build your team with internal staff and a consultant, or work solely with an external IT consultant. Each model can work well, depending on your goals, budget, and how much control you want.

Let’s explore what each setup involves, what to look for, and how to decide which one is best for your business.

Option 1: Build Your Team with Internal Staff and a Consultant

This approach combines your own hires with the help of an experienced IT consultant. It’s a great fit if you want to keep daily IT operations in-house but still want expert advice on systems, strategy, and risk.

Benefits:

  • Direct control over day-to-day IT needs

  • Ongoing advice from someone with broader experience

  • Knowledge stays inside your business

The consultant’s role is to guide your team, keep everything running smoothly, and support your long-term IT planning. They can also help with choosing the right tools, setting up secure systems, and training your staff.

What to Look For:

Choose a consultant who:

  • Has experience working alongside small IT teams

  • Communicates clearly and avoids jargon

  • Offers flexible support and training options

This setup helps your team grow while reducing the chance of costly mistakes.

Option 2: Fully Outsourced IT Consultant

If hiring staff isn’t right for you just yet, you can work solely with an external IT consultant. They act as your IT department, handling everything from setup to support.

This is ideal for small businesses, startups, or those who need reliable IT without the overhead of full-time hires.

Benefits:

  • Lower upfront cost compared to hiring staff

  • Access to broader knowledge and tools

  • Scalable services as your business grows

What to Look For:

A good external consultant should:

  • Provide clear service-level agreements (SLAs)

  • Offer fast, reliable support when things go wrong

  • Understand the tech challenges of your industry

You should also ask for regular check-ins or reports. These help you stay in control even if the work is being done off-site.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

Whether you decide to build your team with internal staff and a consultant or work solely with an external IT consultant, your goal is the same — to keep your technology secure, efficient, and ready to grow with your business.

Start by identifying what support you need now and in the near future. Think about:

  • Your team’s tech skills

  • Your budget

  • The pace of your business growth

Whichever path you take, the right consultant will work as a partner, not just a technician. They’ll help you make smart decisions, protect your systems, and avoid common pitfalls. A recent move by Schroders to outsource much of its IT operations highlights the real-world benefits of external IT consultants — delivering cost savings, agility, and specialist expertise.

Don’t wait until something breaks to think about IT. Whether you want to build from the inside or outsource fully, planning early makes a big difference. Choose the model that matches your business goals, and make sure your consultant speaks your language — not just tech talk.

Need help figuring out the best fit? We can guide you through the process.

IT Policies for SMEs: What They Are, Why They Matter, and How to Create Them

Posted on by Cindy Martinson

In a world where cyber threats are rising and digital compliance is non-negotiable, IT policies are no longer a “nice to have” — they’re a business essential. Yet, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operate without them or use outdated templates that don’t reflect how their business actually works.

This blog will break down what IT policies are, why your SME needs them, and how to create effective, customized policies that strengthen your business.

What Are IT Policies?

IT policies are formal documents that define how technology is used, secured, and managed within your organization. They guide employee behavior, outline responsibilities, and set clear expectations around everything from device usage to data handling.

In short, they tell your team how to use IT safely and responsibly — and what happens if they don’t.

Why IT Policies Matter for SMEs

You may not have a huge IT department, but your data, systems, and operations are still at risk. Here’s why IT policies are crucial:

  • Reduce Human Error – Most security incidents stem from accidental misuse. Policies help staff know what’s safe — and what’s not.

  • Support Compliance – If you handle personal or sensitive data (think GDPR, HIPAA, ISO 27001), IT policies are key to staying compliant.

  • Protect Your Reputation – A policy breach that leads to a cyber incident can damage customer trust and lead to legal consequences.

  • Enable Fast Responses – With clear policies, you don’t scramble in a crisis. Your team knows how to act when things go wrong.

Types of IT Policies Every SME Should Have

Start with the essentials:

  1. Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)
    Defines what employees can and can’t do with company devices, internet, email, and software.

  2. Password and Access Policy
    Sets rules for creating strong passwords, enabling MFA, and managing access levels.

  3. Data Protection Policy
    Outlines how your business collects, stores, and secures sensitive data.

  4. Backup and Recovery Policy
    Covers how data is backed up, how often, and how recovery will be handled in case of loss.

  5. Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Policy
    Regulates personal device use for work to minimize security risks.

  6. Incident Response Policy
    Provides a step-by-step guide on what to do when a cyber incident or data breach occurs.

How to Create IT Policies for Your SME (Step-by-Step)

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel — but you do need to make your policies fit your business. Here’s how:

1. Assess Your Current Risks

Start by identifying the most critical systems and vulnerabilities in your business. What data do you store? Who has access to it? What could go wrong?

2. Prioritize Core Policies

Don’t try to write 20 policies at once. Focus on the top 3–5 areas where you’re most exposed (e.g., passwords, acceptable use, data handling).

3. Keep It Simple and Clear

Avoid jargon. Use real examples. Make policies easy to read and easy to follow for non-technical staff.

4. Involve Your Team

Ask employees where they struggle with IT processes. Their input helps make policies practical — not just theoretical.

5. Get Professional Help (if needed)

A cybersecurity consultant or IT service provider can help you craft policies that meet industry standards and regulatory needs.

6. Train and Communicate

Policies only work if your staff understands them. Hold training sessions, include policies in onboarding, and send regular reminders.

7. Review and Update Regularly

Technology and risks change — so should your policies. Revisit them at least annually, or after any major tech change or incident.

Final Thoughts

IT policies aren’t just about control — they’re about empowerment. With the right policies in place, your team knows what’s expected, your data stays protected, and your business is better prepared for the unexpected.

Need help building your first set of IT policies?
We specialize in helping SMEs create practical, effective cybersecurity and IT governance plans that scale with your business. Contact us to learn more.

Cybersecurity Blind Spots in SMEs

Posted on by Cindy Martinson

Why SMEs Are a Hacker’s Favorite Target: The Hidden Risks You Can’t Ignore

Cybersecurity threats are no longer limited to global corporations. In fact, cybersecurity blind spots in SMEs have become a goldmine for cybercriminals. Many small and medium-sized businesses believe they’re too insignificant to attract attention — but that assumption is exactly what makes them such appealing targets.

Why SMEs Are on the Radar

Hackers actively target SMEs because they often lack the budgets, tools, or expertise to build strong cyber defenses. As a result, these businesses are easier to breach and slower to detect threats — especially when staff haven’t received proper cyber awareness training.

The Top Risks Facing Small and Medium-Sized Businesses Today

Understanding these specific risks is key to building stronger defenses:

1. Phishing Attacks
Employees often fall for emails containing malicious links or requests for login credentials. Even your most cautious team member can be fooled by a well-crafted phishing message if they haven’t been trained to spot one.

2. Ransomware
This threat is no longer exclusive to large corporations. Today, SMEs are prime targets because attackers know smaller firms are more likely to pay quickly just to resume operations.

3. Weak Password Practices
Reused passwords, default logins, and the absence of two-factor authentication make it easy for attackers to brute-force their way into critical systems.

4. Unpatched Software
Outdated plugins, apps, and operating systems present a major vulnerability. Many SMEs delay updates for convenience — unknowingly leaving doors wide open for cyber intrusions.

5. Third-Party Risk
When you work with outsourced vendors, SaaS tools, or freelancers, your data may become exposed through less secure external networks. Without oversight, these partnerships can create serious security gaps.

Cybersecurity Blind Spots in SMEs: A Real Risk

Most SMEs don’t realize they’ve been compromised until weeks or even months after the breach. These blind spots include:

  • Lack of employee training

  • No incident response plan

  • Ignoring mobile device security

  • Assuming antivirus software alone provides sufficient protection

Left unaddressed, these oversights can cause reputational damage, legal exposure, and in some cases, total business closure.

What Can You Do Right Now?

Start by conducting a cybersecurity risk assessment to identify your company’s most vulnerable areas. Then take action by establishing clear security policies, investing in staff training, and ensuring systems and software are regularly updated.

Rather than assuming your business is too small to be a target, act as if it already is — because chances are, it’s already on a hacker’s radar.

For more eye-opening stats and insights into the threats most SMEs overlook, read:

🔗 “Surprising Cybersecurity Facts Every SME Should Know”

Final Thought

Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue — it’s a business survival issue. By addressing the cybersecurity blind spots in SMEs, you protect more than just your data. You safeguard your customers, your revenue, and your reputation.

Cybersecurity on a Budget

Posted on by Cindy Martinson

Cybersecurity on a Budget: 7 Simple Steps Every SME Should Take

Cybersecurity isn’t just for big companies anymore. These days, small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are often the main targets for cyberattacks. Why? Because they usually don’t have strong protection in place. This is often because businesses assume that they cannot expect affordable cybersecurity that will work with their budget and security needs.

The good news is, you don’t need a big budget or an IT team to get started. With a few smart steps, you can build a solid defense. In fact, affordable cybersecurity for SMEs is not only possible — it’s more important than ever.

paper money note becoming pixels and entering the online world
Making your budget work for your security posture.

Here are 7 simple things every SME should do right now:

1. Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

First, protect your accounts by turning on MFA. It adds an extra step when logging in — like a code sent to your phone. This makes it much harder for hackers to break in.

2. Look at Your Risks

Next, take time to figure out where your business is most at risk. A basic risk assessment helps you see what needs fixing first.

3. Limit Admin Access

Don’t give everyone full access to your systems. Instead, only give extra permissions to people who truly need them.

4. Train Your Team

Also, make sure your employees know how to spot common scams, like fake emails. A little training goes a long way.

5. Keep Software Updated

Hackers look for outdated software. So, update your apps and systems regularly to stay safe.

6. Back Up Your Data

If something goes wrong, you’ll want a backup. Use both local and cloud backups — and make sure they actually work.

7. Have a Plan for Emergencies

Finally, write down what to do if a cyberattack happens. This way, your team can act fast and stay calm.

To sum it up, affordable cybersecurity for SMEs starts with small, smart actions. These seven steps won’t cost much — but they can protect a lot.

Need help getting started? Let’s talk.

Secure Your Business with Black Watch

Posted on by admin

Black Watch is the Smart Choice for Cybersecurity in 2025

 

Black Watch Security Logo
Let Us Be Your Shield

In today’s digital-first world, safeguarding your business from cyber threats is no longer optional—it’s essential. Proactive cybersecurity is now foundational to your business. With cybercrime growing in scale and sophistication, partnering with a cybersecurity company with global expertise can mean the difference between staying protected and falling victim to a costly breach. That’s where Black Watch comes in.

According to Teal’s 2024 Cybersecurity Analyst skills guide, top cybersecurity professionals must possess a deep understanding of threat intelligence, vulnerability management, incident response, and global cyber practices.

      Black Watch Security delivers on all fronts:

 

  1. Expert Threat Intelligence and Analysis
    Proactive cybersecurity means anticipating threats before they strike. Black Watch specializes in real-time threat monitoring and analysis, enabling businesses to take swift action against emerging threats. This capability is a core pillar of effective cyber defense, as highlighted by Teal’s guide.
  2. Thorough Vulnerability Assessment and Management
    One overlooked vulnerability can be a cybercriminal’s golden ticket. Black Watch conducts rigorous system evaluations to uncover weak points and implement solutions that harden your defenses. As a cybersecurity company with global expertise, we understand the evolving tactics attackers use across industries.
  3. Rapid Incident Response and Recovery
    The right response can contain damage and restore operations swiftly. Black Watch’s seasoned team is equipped with the skills to manage incidents efficiently, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum resilience. Businesses need a cybersecurity company with global expertise that can act fast—and that’s exactly what we offer.
  4. Customized Security Solutions That Work
    No two businesses are the same. That’s why Black Watch tailors cybersecurity strategies to each client’s unique needs. This aligns with current trends toward personalized protection, as also seen in insights from IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report.

When it comes to protecting your digital assets, don’t leave things to chance. Choose Black Watch as your cybersecurity partner—a team that brings global insight, elite technical skills, and a genuine commitment to your business’s security.

Secure your future with Black Watch as your cybersecurity partner. The right choice today could save you everything tomorrow.

Protect Your Business with the Right Cyber Security

Posted on by admin

Why Your Industry Needs a Cybersecurity Consultant Now More Than Ever

As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, industries that rely on sensitive data are facing increasing pressure to strengthen their digital defenses. For many organizations, hiring a cybersecurity consultant is no longer optional—it’s essential.

High-Risk Industries: Why the Stakes Are Higher

According to a recent report in the Guardian (, 2024), several sectors are disproportionately targeted by cybercriminals. These attacks exploit weaknesses in systems that handle large volumes of sensitive or high-value information.

Education & Research

Universities and research institutions are frequent targets due to their vast stores of intellectual property and personal data. Cybercriminals often seek research findings or use ransomware to disrupt operations. A cybersecurity expert can help mitigate these risks with advanced threat detection and secure data practices.

Healthcare

With personal health records and critical operational systems at stake, the healthcare industry cannot afford weak cyber protection. Breaches not only violate patient privacy but can endanger lives. A cybersecurity advisor ensures your systems meet both ethical and regulatory standards.

Financial Services

Banks and fintech firms handle constant transactions, making them prime targets for fraud and theft. Employing a skilled cyber professional helps institutions stay compliant while preventing high-cost intrusions.

Government & Defense

These sectors deal with highly classified information. A breach could threaten national security. Only seasoned cybersecurity consultants with specialized experience should manage such critical assets.

What a Cybersecurity Consultant Can Do for You

A professional cybersecurity consultant provides:

  • Threat Intelligence – Stay updated on evolving attack methods.

  • Vulnerability Assessments – Identify weak spots before they’re exploited.

  • Incident Response Planning – Minimize downtime and reputational damage.

  • Tailored Security Strategies – Align protection with your industry’s specific risks.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re safeguarding research, financial transactions, or patient data, the need for expert cybersecurity support is clear. Partnering with a knowledgeable cybersecurity consultant is a strategic move for long-term resilience.

For additional reading on current industry risks, see Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) for tools and guidelines tailored to your sector.