Conducting a Cybersecurity Risk Assessment: Where to Start

For many small businesses, the idea of a “cybersecurity risk assessment” sounds like something only big corporations do. But the truth is, every business — no matter the size — can benefit from taking stock of what’s at risk.

Here’s how to get started in three clear steps:

1. Take Inventory

   Make a list of your key digital assets:

   • Computers, smartphones, and routers

   • Cloud platforms and business apps

   • Customer data, financial records, and internal files

   
   

   This step is about knowing what you have and where it lives.

2. Identify the Weak Points

   For each asset, ask:

   • Who has access to it?

   • How is it protected (passwords, MFA, backups)?

   • What would happen if it were lost, stolen, or compromised?

   
   

   This helps you spot your most vulnerable areas — and the ones that matter most to your operations.

3. Prioritize Your Fixes

   You don’t have to fix everything at once. Start with the issues that pose the greatest risk or impact:

   • Weak or shared passwords

   • No backups or outdated software

   • Sensitive data stored without encryption

   
   

   Even small improvements can dramatically reduce your risk.

Our Final Thought:

A risk assessment doesn’t need to be overwhelming or formal. It’s simply about understanding your digital landscape — and taking smart, informed steps to protect it.

Want a checklist to help you do this? Get in touch →