How small businesses can stay safe from cybersecurity threats

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Join us on August 5th at noon to become better informed on why keeping a cybersecurity budget is necessary and crucial.

We know for many that the topic of cybersecurity can seem overwhelmingly complicated. Still, a basic understanding of cybersecurity is considered table stakes for running a business in 2020, particularly business with any online presence. However, even those companies without an online presence can be quite vulnerable to cybersecurity threats.  In 2017, 61% of small businesses in the United States suffered some cyber-attacks. This number reflects an over 50% increase year to year in cybersecurity assaults on U.S. small businesses. Now, more than ever, there are many reasons why small businesses need cybersecurity — privacy,  client trust, financial integrity, employee integrity, data integrity, and the longevity of the company.

In 2017, 61% of small businesses in the United States suffered some cyber-attacks.

We know for many that the topic of cybersecurity can seem overwhelmingly complicated. Still, a basic understanding of cybersecurity is considered table stakes for running a business in 2020, particularly corporations with any online presence. However, even those companies without an online presence can be quite vulnerable to cybersecurity threats.

Participants will have the opportunity to hear and speak directly with Edafio’s Senior Cybersecurity consultants, Sam Grubb and Cheryl Hearne, on how to protect businesses better. The Small Business Hub is hosted by the Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce.



Meet the presenters



Cheryl Hearne,
Edafio Technology Partners, Senior Cybersecurity Consultant

Cheryl Hearne is a Cybersecurity Enthusiast and a Senior Consultant with Edafio Technology Partners working with clients to proactively move the needle on their information security posture and to respond to incidences that could impact the objectives of their organizations she is committed to protecting.

Cheryl has a diverse and wide-range experience in IT and comprehensive enterprise-level cybersecurity, which gives her multifaceted expertise to accomplish client goals.

While Cheryl has not come into the cybersecurity field with prior information technology experience, she believes that her unique path has provided her with the ability to evaluate and prioritize cybersecurity strategies succinctly. She has earned multiple certifications to include a CISSP, GPEN, Sec+, Net+, and PCI ISA and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts with an emphasis in writing from the University of Central Arkansas.

Cheryl shares her passions around data privacy with any family member or friend who can listen without their eyes glazing over. She indulges in the creative side of her brain through photography, playing the guitar, and traveling as much as possible.



Sam Grubb
Edafio Technology Partners, Cybersecurity Consultant

Sam Grubb is a Cyber Security Consultant at Edafio where he focuses on policy, security risk assessments, and security awareness programs. Previously, Sam worked as a contractor for the National Guard teaching Information Assurance courses and a teacher for Jacksonville High School as their Cyber Security Education Specialist. Currently, Sam is helping companies reach CMMC Level 3 compliance. He has a wife and son who live with five cats and one dog. He enjoys reading, writing, comedy, and impractical technical projects. 
If you’ve been feeling uneasy or on edge about how your business could be attacked during a time where everything we do is digital, we’re here to help! 

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