Cybersecurity Checklist for Australian SMEs in 2026

Cyber threats don’t care how small your business is. In fact, 43% of cyberattacks now target small and medium businesses, and Australia is no exception. Yet many SMEs still believe they’re “too small” to be on a hacker’s radar — until it’s too late.

Cyber threats don’t care how small your business is.

In fact, 43% of cyberattacks now target small and medium businesses, and Australia is no exception. Yet many SMEs still believe they’re “too small” to be on a hacker’s radar — until it’s too late.

So how secure is your business, really?

Whether you’re running a 5-person accounting firm or a growing e-commerce operation, this 2026 checklist will help you identify gaps and strengthen your digital defences.

1. Are You Keeping Software and Systems Updated?

Outdated software is a top entry point for attackers. Are you regularly: – Installing the latest security patches? – Updating operating systems, firewalls, routers, and antivirus software? – Removing unsupported or unused apps?

If not, your business is vulnerable — even if everything seems to be working fine.

2. Do You Have a Backup and Disaster Recovery Plan?

What would happen if your systems crashed today, or ransomware locked your files?

A solid plan should include: – Automated, off-site backups – Daily or even hourly backups for critical data – Regular recovery testing – Clearly defined restoration procedures.

Without this, even a minor incident could cost days of downtime.

3. Are Your Staff Trained in Cyber Awareness?

Human error is still the biggest weak spot. Have you: – Trained your team on how to spot phishing emails? – Created a clear policy on password use and device security? – Tested staff responses with simulated attacks?

Education is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce risk.

4. Are You Using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

MFA adds a critical extra layer of security. Ensure it’s enabled for: – Email accounts – Cloud storage (e.g. Microsoft 365, Google Workspace) – Remote desktop logins – Any platform handling sensitive data.

If MFA isn’t standard in your business, it’s time to change that.

5. Do You Have Endpoint Protection in Place?

Laptops, desktops, mobile phones — they’re all access points. You need: – Business-grade antivirus and anti-malware tools – Remote device management (especially for hybrid teams) – Encryption on devices handling sensitive or financial data.

A single compromised device can jeopardise your entire network.

6. Have You Had a Professional Security Audit?

When was the last time a qualified expert assessed your setup?

A security audit can uncover hidden risks, such as: – Unsecured ports or Wi-Fi configurations – Default admin passwords still in use – Gaps in backup or firewall protocols.

You can’t fix what you don’t know.

🔐 Expert Tip: Cybersecurity for SMEs

Even small businesses face big threats. A solid cybersecurity setup in 2026 means: – Regular software updates – Off-site backups with recovery testing – Staff training on phishing & password hygiene – MFA on all critical systems – Professional audits & endpoint protection.

What’s the Cost of Getting It Wrong?

Cybercrime costs Australian businesses billions each year — and small businesses are the least prepared to respond.

Data breaches damage trust and brand reputation
Downtime from ransomware can cripple operations
Non-compliance with data protection laws can lead to hefty fines

The question isn’t if you’ll be targeted. It’s when — and whether you’ll be ready.

How Simplicity I.T. Can Help

We help small businesses get protected without overcomplicating things. Our cybersecurity services include: – Endpoint protection – Staff training & phishing simulation – 24/7 monitoring – Backup & disaster recovery – Professional audits & remediation.

All with clear advice and no jargon.