Developing cybersecurity programs in businesses today is essential . ” In it s 2014 Year – End Economic Report , the National Small Business Association also known as NSBA found that ” half of all small businesses report they have been the victim of a cyber – attack – up from 44 percent just two years ago ” ( The Impact of Cybercrime on Small Business ) . Cyber – attacks are prominent and on the rise . Many small businesses are susceptible to cyber – attacks due to the lack of resources and the knowledge of threats . ” The cost of cybercrime to a small business can be devastating . In 2013 , cyberattacks cost small businesses on average , $ 8,699 per attack . Today , that number has skyrocketed to $ 20,752 per attack ” ( The Impact of Cybercrime on Small Business ) . Developing a strong cybersecurity program can be a huge financial benefit . It can save these vulnerable companies thousands . Another benefit of developing a cybersecurity program is the protection of sensitive and confidential information . ” More than ever , sensitive data , intellectual property and personal information of small and medium sized firms are targeted by an ever increasing and sophisticated community of cybercriminals ” ( The Impact of Cybercrime on Small Business ) . Private and sensitive data can be safeguarded and surveilled with the implementation of a strong cybersecurity program . Customer information , credit card information , and other client ‘s information will no longer be able to be breached , which in turn will cause more trust in using online businesses . Another benefit of developing cybersecurity program in business is reducing phishing and impersonation incidents . ” Small businesses are particularly vulnerable to email attacks closely mimicking those of banks or other trusted institutions and citing an urgent need to login to an account or provide some other vital information , since multiple employees could have access to vital information ” ( The Impact of Cybercrime on Small Business ) . Many employees are not well versed in recognizing attempts to access vital information and may fall victim to hacking . With the use of cybersecurity programs , these incidents can be avoided . Training and education are necessary for all employees