SMBs Misjudge Cyber Preparedness Amidst Slow Adoption of Tools and AI

A global survey, “State of IT Security for SMBs in 2025,” reveals a troubling disconnect between small and medium-sized businesses’ confidence in their cybersecurity and actual protective measures. While 71% feel prepared for major cyber incidents, only 22% have an advanced cybersecurity framework. The report highlights deficiencies in privileged access management (PAM), with 52% relying on manual methods like spreadsheets, increasing risks of credential misuse. Despite 71% planning to adopt AI tools for cybersecurity, only 25% currently use them, hindered by concerns regarding data privacy and lack of expertise. 63% of SMBs are boosting cybersecurity budgets, yet a third allocate less than 5% of their IT budgets to security, leading to misaligned investments. The report emphasizes the need for proactive measures and investment in effective tools and practices, urging businesses to shift from mere awareness to action in their cybersecurity commitments to bridge the preparedness gap and mitigate risks in an evolving threat landscape.

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