Why Business Owners Need to Consider a Cyber Security-First MSP

Small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs) have become the prime targets for cybercriminals — and the numbers prove it. It’s not just enterprise organizations facing ransomware attacks, phishing campaigns and data breaches.

SMBs are in the crosshairs, often with fewer resources and weaker defenses. That’s why working with a cyber security-first managed service provider (MSP) is no longer optional, it’s essential. Here’s why SMBs need an MSP that puts cyber security front and center.

SMBs Are Now Prime Targets

Many SMB owners still believe “we’re too small to be hacked.” That’s a dangerous myth.

In reality:

• 60% of SMBs go out of business within six months of a cyberattack, according to the U.S. National Cyber Security Alliance
• The average ransomware payout for SMBs exceeded $200,000 in 2024
• Many attacks now come via supply chain vectors or compromised third-party tools, areas SMBs often overlook

Cyber security-first MSPs understand this threat landscape and build layered defenses that protect even the smallest environments.

Compliance Pressure Is Rising

Regulations like HIPAA, NIST 800-171, PCIDSS, CMMC and GDPR are no longer exclusive to enterprises or government contractors. Compliance is cascading downstream, and enforcement is getting stricter.

Whether your SMB works in healthcare, manufacturing, construction, finance or retail, chances are you're handling sensitive data that must be protected.

A cyber security-focused MSP helps:

• Assess compliance gaps
• Build documentation and policies
• Implement technical controls
• Offer ongoing audits and reporting

Insurance and Legal Requirements Are Changing

Cyber insurance carriers are raising the bar. To even qualify for coverage, most now require:

• Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• Endpoint detection and response (EDR)
• Off-site backups and incident response plans

Failing to meet these requirements or falsely attesting to requirements can result in denied claims or skyrocketing premiums. A security-first MSP can help businesses meet these benchmarks and maintain coverage. Avoiding security upgrades could now be a direct financial liability.

It's Not Just IT Anymore, It’s Business Risk

Cyber security is no longer an “IT issue.” A breach can halt operations, damage your reputation and erode customer trust. This makes cyber security a business continuity issue.

MSPs can act as risk advisors, not just tech support.

A cyber security-first MSP helps SMBs:

• Identify risk exposure in business systems and workflows
• Protect intellectual property and customer data
• Establish business continuity and disaster recovery plans

Cyber Security-First MSPs Build Resilience, Not Just Firewalls

It’s not enough to install antivirus software or a firewall and call it a day. The right MSP offers a comprehensive, strategic approach:

• Risk assessments and regular testing
• Ongoing monitoring and threat detection (managed detection and response/extended detection and response/network detection and response)
• Security awareness training for employees
• Incident response playbooks
• Continuous compliance tracking and reporting

This isn’t just about protecting the business, it’s about making it more resilient, agile and trustworthy.

Conclusion: Choose a Partner Who Puts Security First

In 2025, the MSP your business chooses will have a direct impact on your ability to survive a cyberattack or prevent one altogether. The right MSP doesn’t just react to threats — they anticipate them. They design your infrastructure with security at the core. They align your IT strategy with your risk tolerance and regulatory needs. Cyber security isn’t just a feature of a good MSP — it’s the foundation.

Need Help?

Gross Mendelsohn’s Technology Solutions Group can be your managed service provider. Contact us here or call 410.685.5512 for help.