When it comes to cybersecurity, there’s no shortage of advice out there—but a lot of it is outdated or just plain wrong. Too many people still think things like “hackers only go after big companies” or “antivirus software is all you need.” The truth is, those myths can leave both individuals and businesses wide open to attacks.
Here are a few numbers that put it into perspective:
- Human mistakes are the biggest risk: Around 95% of data breaches come down to people slipping up, whether it’s clicking a bad link or misconfiguring something.
- Small businesses aren’t off the hook: In fact, 43% of attacks target smaller companies, mostly because attackers know defenses are weaker.
- The cost of getting hacked is climbing: The average data breach now costs about $4.9 million, which is up 10% from last year.
- AI is changing the game—for attackers too: Deepfake scams are exploding, with over 105,000 CEO impersonation attacks reported in the U.S. last year, costing companies hundreds of millions in just one quarter.
Pretty sobering, right? That’s why it’s so important to separate fact from fiction. Let’s break down 10 of the most common cybersecurity misconceptions—and the truth behind them.
Know The Facts
Cybersecurity myths may be easy to believe, but now you know the truth—and the risks of ignoring it. As technology advances, cybercriminals are getting smarter, and even the best-trained teams can only do so much on their own. The key is staying informed and taking proactive steps to protect your business. Not sure where to begin? Our cybersecurity checklist is a simple way to assess your current defenses and spot the gaps. And remember, your local CMIT advisor is always ready to help you put the right, affordable protections in place.
Written by: Chris Zambuto | Chief Information Security Officer @CMITBostonCambridge
