The growth of technology has given all businesses new challenges. From cyber security to artificial intelligence, there are endless amounts of technology. For a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME), acquiring protective technology products is not always affordable.
Although many know they need them, it is hard to get them, and not many modern tech tools are affordable for SMEs. To combat this, communication and connection solutions company, Saicom has developed tech solutions for SMEs and smaller corporations.
Chief Technology Officer of Saicom, Greg de Chasteaneuf, says that implementing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy can be complex, but it does not have to be expensive. “Any business wants to invest in things that make the biggest impact for the least effort and money spent,” explains Chasteaneuf.
According to a report by Interpol, cybercrime attacks continue to rise across Africa. In 2023, the top cyber threats were ransomware, business e-mail compromise, and online scams. Phishing e-mails are the primary attack channel for business e-mail compromise, accounting for nearly 80%.
It’s important that as an SME owner, you make means to protect your business. You can do this by integrating security measures.
Cybercriminals usually target SMEs because they have fewer resources to implement robust cybersecurity solutions.
SMEs are usually targeted by cybercriminals because they have fewer resources to implement robust cybersecurity solutions.
Saicom says it is committed to providing SMEs with comprehensive and affordable technology. Here are some examples of their tools.
1. Secure SD-Wan
Software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) is a virtual service that connects data centres, branches and cloud networks. It helps you direct users to applications safely. Saicom’s SD-WAN helps simplify network management. Its centralised controller enables private, secure, and direct internet access.
“It provides consistent security at all network edges, from flexible WAN edges to the cloud edge,” says Saicom.
2. Firewall as a Service (FWaaS)
FWaaS is a cloud-based firewall solution. It provides hyperscale, next-generation firewall capabilities including web filtering, advanced threat protection, intrusion prevention system, and Domain Name System (DNS) security.
Saicom’s FWaaS offers SMEs advanced firewall protection. It provides multi-layered security to oversee and regulate data flow. This helps prevent unauthorised access and protects against external threats.
3. Intrusion Detection
An intrusion detection system (IDS) is a security tool that monitors network traffic and devices for malicious and suspicious activity. Saicom uses honeypot technology for its IDS. Honeypot technology is a computer system that is used to attract cyberattacks, sort of like a decoy.
Saicom says this approach ensures timely detection and response to any malicious attacks by attracting and analysing attack patterns.
4. Domain Security
If you have an online store or website for your business, you need to protect your domain. Saicom says its domain security services ensure the integrity and security of your domain name system (DNS).
The company says, “Our domain security prevents domain hijacking and other related attacks. Using advanced e-mail authentication and protection measures.”
5. E-mail Security
Business e-mail scams are increasing in Africa. It’s important to add security measures to protect both internal and external e-mails. Saicom’s e-mail security solutions include a range of tools to protect your business and your customers.
Included in the Saicom e-mail security solutions is:
- Anti-phishing tools.
- Anti-spam security solutions.
- E-mail encryption services.
- Protection against e-mail-based threats.
- Secure communication channels.
6. Security Consulting
It’s easy to mention what security tools to integrate, but you also must know which ones work for your business and how they work. To help with this, Saicom provides security consulting to SMEs.
Saicom’s security consulting services help SMEs develop and implement effective cybersecurity strategies. These are tailored to your specific needs and risk profile.
Chasteaneuf explains that companies can enhance security for their distributed environments by using advanced solutions. This ensures that protection is extended to users and applications regardless of their location.
Investing in protective technology tools is important for the security of your business and your customers. Here are some advantages to integrating protective tools.
Advantages of Cyber Security for SMEs
1. Data Protection
As an SME you handle sensitive customer data such as phone numbers, bank accounts and e-mail addresses. Protecting this data is important to maintaining trust with your customers. It also helps you stay compliant with data protection regulations.
2. Business Continuity
If you are ever hacked or compromised, it can result in your business stopping operations, or even closing. Protective tools such as Saicom’s help ensure your business continues and prevents financial loss.
3. Reputation Management
If cyber criminals target you and you lack proper protection, your business’s reputation will suffer. This will affect the confidence your customers have in you, potentially leading to a loss of business.
4. Legal and Regulatory Compliance
There are many laws and regulations that all businesses must comply with. Many industries have strict data protection and cybersecurity regulations. By investing in the right protective tools, you avoid fines and costly implications.
Saicom has more security tools and solutions for SMEs. The company is committed to helping SMEs and smaller corporations stay protected.
“Saicom aims to provide SMEs with robust, scalable, and affordable technology solutions that address their specific needs. Our commitment to customer-centricity ensures that we continue to support SMEs in navigating the complex cybersecurity landscape,” concludes Chasteaneuf.
For more information on how to start, manage, and grow your SME, visit the SME South Africa website.
