Why cybersecurity is no longer just an Enterprise issue

For a long time, cybersecurity was considered an “enterprise issue”. Big corporations, with their large networks and vast amounts of sensitive data, were the primary targets of cyberattacks. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and individual consumers were largely overlooked in discussions about cybersecurity, often assuming they were too insignificant to attract the attention of cybercriminals. However, that assumption no longer holds true. The reality is that SMBs and consumers are increasingly in the crosshairs of cyber threats, and the need for robust cybersecurity has never been greater.

Rising threat levels for consumers and SMBs

Cybercriminals have adapted, shifting their focus to seemingly easier targets, namely consumers and SMBs. Why? These groups often lack the resources, expertise, and infrastructure that larger enterprises have in place to defend themselves. With weaker defences, they’re prime targets for a range of attacks, from ransomware and phishing to malware and identity theft.

• Consumers are increasingly exposed to threats via their personal devices, like smartphones, tablets, and laptops – especially as more of their activities move online. From financial transactions to social media and online shopping, consumers are generating and storing more personal data than ever. This wealth of information makes them an attractive target for cybercriminals looking to exploit vulnerabilities.

 

• Meanwhile, SMBs are dealing with a growing number of attacks aimed at exploiting their limited security infrastructure. Despite often managing sensitive customer information, many SMBs operate without the necessary cybersecurity measures in place. This makes them vulnerable to ransomware, phishing scams, and other forms of data breaches that can not only disrupt their operations but also result in significant financial losses. In fact, research suggests that 43% of cyberattacks are now aimed at small businesses, and 60% of SMBs that experience a cyberattack go out of business within six months.

Why operators must offer cybersecurity as a value-added service

As consumers and SMBs become more vulnerable, there is an opportunity for telecom operators to step in and offer cybersecurity solutions as part of their service offerings. Doing so not only addresses a critical need but also positions operators to create a value-added service that can boost customer loyalty and improve retention rates.

Here’s how:

• Increased customer trust and loyalty: Providing consumers and SMBs with advanced cybersecurity protection can enhance the overall customer experience. In a world where data breaches are becoming commonplace, customers are more likely to stick with a provider that proactively protects their information and offers peace of mind.

• New revenue streams: Cybersecurity isn’t just about protection – it’s an opportunity to create new services and revenue models. By bundling cybersecurity solutions into existing packages, operators can offer premium services that customers are willing to pay for. This is particularly relevant for SMBs, which are looking for cost-effective ways to safeguard their business without needing to manage complex security systems on their own.

• Reduced churn: Offering value-added services such as cybersecurity helps operators differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market. Customers who feel protected and supported by their provider are less likely to switch to a competitor, reducing churn and improving long-term profitability.

How BlackDice’s AI-powered solutions provide comprehensive protection

At BlackDice, we understand the critical need for modern cybersecurity solutions that go beyond traditional methods like antivirus software. Our AI-powered platform offers comprehensive protection for both consumers and SMBs, delivered via their telecoms operator and CPE hardware, using  advanced AI technologies to provide real-time threat detection, analysis, and prevention.

Here’s how our solution works:

AI threat detection: Our AI-driven system continuously monitors network traffic and connected devices to detect any suspicious activity or potential threats. Whether it’s identifying a phishing attempt or detecting malware in a device, our system is designed to catch issues before they cause damage.

 

Router-based protection: BlackDice’s technology doesn’t rely on individual devices to have security software installed on each. Instead, our solutions are integrated at the router level, offering whole-home or whole-office protection without the need for additional downloads or apps on every device. This is especially beneficial for SMBs managing multiple devices across various locations.

 

Predictive analytics: With AI and machine learning at the core of our platform, we don’t just react to threats. We predict them. By analysing patterns in data and user behaviour, our tech can proactively identify potential risks and prevent attacks before they occur.

 

Ease of use: We know that consumers and SMBs often don’t have the time or expertise to manage complicated security systems. That’s why BlackDice’s solution is designed to be simple to use. Everything is managed automatically in the background, providing powerful protection without the need for constant user intervention.

Empowering operators to drive customer loyalty

By partnering with BlackDice, telecom operators can offer these cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions directly to their customers, helping them address their growing concerns about online threats. This not only provides real, tangible value to end users but also strengthens the operator’s brand and customer relationships.

For telecom operators, the SMB segment presents a massive growth opportunity, particularly when it comes to providing cybersecurity solutions as a service. As SMBs continue to recognise the importance of protecting their business from cyber threats, operators who can offer easy-to-use, robust security solutions will be well-positioned to capture a larger share of this market and increase Average Revenue Per User (ARPU).

Related content:

Telco product manager’s guide to SMB cybersecurity

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is no longer just an enterprise issue, it’s a critical need for both consumers and SMBs. The rise in cyber threats has created a growing demand for comprehensive security solutions, and telecom operators are uniquely positioned to provide this protection. By leveraging BlackDice’s AI-powered cybersecurity platform, operators can offer their customers enhanced security, boost customer loyalty, and create new revenue streams. In an era where digital safety is paramount, this is an opportunity that operators can’t afford to miss.