SPOKANE, Wash.—The Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is presenting three no-cost, hands-on workshops on cybersecurity basics presented by the Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and industry experts.
From Passwords to Policies: Small Business Cybersecurity Essentials will be presented from 9 a.m. to noon, Nov. 13 in Bellevue, from 2 to 5 p.m., Nov. 13 in Shoreline; from 9 a.m. to noon, Nov. 20 in Lynnwood.
“This workshop is designed to help people understand what steps they can take immediately that could make a big difference,” said Kayla Miller, cybersecurity coordinator at the Washington SBDC. “Hackers look for easy targets – you don’t need to build a fortress, start by locking your door.”
Whether you are new to cybersecurity or have been working at it for some time, this workshop will provide relevant information you can apply immediately to improve the security of your data and your business. The workshop will include information on multi-factor authentication, keeping your Wi-Fi and devices secure, and knowing who has access to your equipment. You’ll also learn why having written policies and procedures is important, and how to protect your business from scams like phishing and fake emails. A speaker from Banner Bank will discuss how you can protect your money and secure your bank accounts.
According to the U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency, small businesses are three times more likely to be targeted by cybercriminals than larger companies, and the total cost of cybercrimes to small businesses reached $2.4 billion in 2021. Nearly 60 percent of small businesses that experience a cyberattack go out of business within six months.
The workshops have been scheduled for the following days and times:
- Nov. 13, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., From Passwords to Policies: Small Business Cybersecurity Essentials (in person, Bellevue). Register here.
- Nov. 13, 2 – 5 p.m., From Passwords to Policies: Small Business Cybersecurity Essentials (in person, Shoreline). Register here.
- Nov. 20, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., From Passwords to Policies: Small Business Cybersecurity Essentials (in person, Lynnwood). Register here.
The Washington SBDC is a network of more than 40 business advisors and two international trade specialists who work in communities across the state to assist entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to start, grow or buy/sell a business. The Washington SBDC is hosted by Washington State University and receives funding support from the U.S. Small Business Administration, other institutions of higher education, including Shoreline Community College, economic development agencies, municipal governments and business and civic groups.
For more about the Washington SBDC, go to www.wsbdc.org
