Look, cyber threats sound scary, but you’re not on your own here. So, what does all the recent cybersecurity drama actually mean for your small business? With headlines flashing about React vulnerabilities, AI deepfakes and ransomware-as-a-service, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning in jargon and doomsday predictions. But don’t worry – let’s break it down into clear, practical actions you can take right now.

Cyberattacks are no longer just a big company problem. In fact, nearly half of small businesses faced cyber threats in 2025 alone. That’s a huge number when resources are tight and tech expertise may be limited.

Thankfully, cleartwo’s got your back to help you sort through the scary stuff and build a straightforward, manageable defence with their expert services. Ready to turn those scary headlines into steps you can actually take? Let’s get started!

A small business owner confidently checking their cybersecurity tasks on a laptop, ready to tackle recent threats head-on.

React RCE Vulnerability: Patch Your Web Apps Now

Wondering if your website could be at risk? Let’s find out. Here’s the thing – over 600,000 websites using React and Next.js were exposed to a nasty Remote Code Execution (RCE) flaw in late 2025. For small businesses relying on these popular frameworks, this isn’t just a headline; it’s a call to action.

What’s an RCE vulnerability? Simply put, it’s a gap hackers use to run malicious code on your website without permission. That could mean stealing data. Or taking your site offline altogether.

Now, not all of us are coding superheroes, and that’s perfectly fine. But that doesn’t mean you’re helpless. Here’s what you can do:

• Have a quick peek at your website set-up – find out if you’re using React or Next.js versions that need patching.
• Update your software – developers usually release fixes quickly, so make sure you’re running the latest versions.
• Keep an eye on what your server’s up to – watch for unusual activity that could signal an attack.
• Work through a trusted IT partner if needed – sometimes a bit of expert help can save a ton of stress.

Simple steps, but absolutely critical. Not sure if your site is vulnerable? Cleartwo can take a look and sort this out for you with comprehensive website security checks.

AI Deepfakes and Phishing Surge: Spot Fakes Fast

Look, we’ve all been there – receiving a message that looks legit but feels… off. Thanks to AI-powered deepfakes, scammers are crafting emails and voice messages that can fool even the sharpest eyes and ears.

Big names like Nvidia and WhatsApp have been caught in the crosshairs recently, where fake messages caused confusion and even financial loss. For small businesses, it means your employees and even you could be tricked into handing over sensitive info.

Let’s make this simple. Here’s how to stay one step ahead:

• Double-check unexpected calls or emails – don’t just take them at face value.
• Use AI-driven email filters – these tools flag suspicious content before it lands in your inbox.
• Run staff training simulations – practising spotting phishing attempts makes a huge difference.
• Encourage a culture of “pause and check” – rushing leads to mistakes.

Applying these steps isn’t as daunting as it sounds. Start by checking out cleartwo’s cybersecurity training for teams that’s practical and straightforward.

Supply Chain Breaches (Oracle, ShinyHunters): Vet Your Vendors Carefully

Between you and me, third-party risks often slip under the radar. Recent breaches affecting big players like Oracle EBS and supply chains exposed by ShinyHunters show how weak spots in your vendors can cause serious trouble for your business.

Think of it like this: your vendors are links in a chain. If one weak link snaps, your whole operation can wobble.

So what’s manageable for small businesses with limited time and resources? Here’s your checklist:

• Use a vendor security questionnaire to size up risks.
• Limit vendor access to only what’s necessary.
• Keep an eye on vendor updates and patches.
• Have clear contracts with cybersecurity standards.
• Watch vendor behaviour and network activity closely.

Cleartwo’s vendor risk assessments make this process simple, helping you get ahead of threats before they hit.

Ransomware Trends: Back Up to Beat Ransomware-as-a-Service

Ransomware isn’t new, but the rise of Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) means it’s spreading faster and becoming even trickier to fight. Over 100 ransomware types popped up in 2025, causing havoc like the disruptions at Asahi Steel. Ignoring it just isn’t an option.

Here’s what you can realistically do without breaking the bank:

• Follow the 3-2-1 backup rule – 3 copies, 2 different media, 1 offsite.
• Keep backups offline so they’re safe from attacks.
• Implement a no-pay policy – paying ransoms only fuels the crooks.
• Use endpoint protection tools to catch infections early.
• Educate your team on safe habits, like avoiding shady downloads.

Don’t worry, you’ve got this! Start with a backup plan and if you want to make sure it’s rock solid, cleartwo can help set you up with reliable data protection solutions.

Quick SMB Cybersecurity Toolkit: Build Your Resilience

Honestly, cybersecurity can feel like a full-time job. But small businesses need manageable, efficient solutions. Here’s a handy summary to get you on track:

• Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• Regular software updates
• Employee cybersecurity training
• Backup and recovery plans
• Vendor risk management
• Monitoring and alert systems
• Access controls and permissions

Each of these is a piece of the puzzle to keep your business resilient. The good news? Many free or low-cost tools cover these basics. If you want guidance tailoring these elements to your business, cleartwo’s team is ready to guide you through every step.

Start Today: Your Action Plan

Look, cyber threats aren’t going away overnight, but putting simple, clear protections in place will make a real difference. Here’s what to do right now:

1. Check if you need urgent software patches (React/Next.js especially).
2. Review your backup strategy and improve it if needed.
3. Run a quick training session or share advice about phishing and deepfakes.
4. Assess your vendor relationships for security risk.
5. Consider a free cybersecurity audit to pinpoint weak spots.

Need a hand? Download cleartwo’s free checklist to get organised. It’s designed with SMBs in mind – no tech nonsense, just practical steps you can tick off.

Between all these scary headlines, remember, you’re not alone. And you don’t need to be a cybersecurity guru to protect your business.

Let’s tackle this together – your business deserves it.