Email remains the number one way hackers attack small businesses. In communities like Hudson, Stillwater, Woodbury, and River Falls, local companies are often targeted because cybercriminals know smaller teams have fewer layers of defense. A single click on a bad link can expose sensitive data, cause downtime, or lead to costly recovery efforts.
Common Email Threats
Phishing and spam are still the most common risks. Attackers pretend to be vendors, co-workers, or even your bank. They send believable messages to trick employees into sharing passwords or sending money. Ransomware and fake invoices are also rising, where attackers use stolen login details to demand payments or infiltrate accounts.
How AI Is Changing the Game
Modern scams use artificial intelligence to sound more convincing. Deepfake technology now allows criminals to mimic a person’s voice or video, making fake requests look real. This can fool even experienced staff, especially when paired with stolen company details found online.
Building Stronger Protection
- Train your employees regularly – Teach staff how to spot suspicious messages and report them quickly.
- Use multi-factor authentication – A second step for logins helps block unauthorized access even if a password is stolen.
- Keep software up to date – Old versions of email apps and browsers leave doors open for attackers.
- Back up data safely – Store copies of important files off-site or in the cloud.
- Work with a trusted IT partner – Aileron IT provides continuous email monitoring and protection tailored for local businesses.
Cybercriminals aren’t slowing down, but neither should your defenses. With the right mix of technology, training, and proactive monitoring, your business can stay protected from evolving threats.
Email is the heart of communication for every business. Make sure it’s secure. Aileron IT helps companies across Hudson, Stillwater, Woodbury, and western Wisconsin strengthen email protection and prevent costly breaches. Let’s make sure your inbox is safe before the next threat arrives.