Top 5 Cyber Threats Facing Singapore SMEs — and How to Defend Against Them

Singapore SMEs are becoming prime targets for ransomware, phishing scams, cloud breaches, and accidental data leaks.

Most attacks succeed not because SMEs lack technology — but because attackers exploit simple gaps. The good news? These threats are preventable with the right protection in place.

1. Phishing Attacks

Fake emails pretending to be from IRAS, banks, vendors, or delivery companies remain the number 1 cause of SME breaches. Employees are tricked into clicking malicious links or entering their passwords.

Risks:

• Compromised email accounts

• Fake invoice fraud

• Data theft

How to defend:

• Advanced email filtering + anti-phishing AI

• Regular training so staff can identify suspicious messages

  
  

2. Ransomware

Ransomware encrypts your company’s data and demands payment to unlock it.SMEs are attractive targets because many still rely on basic antivirus protection.

Risks:

• Full business downtime

• Loss of customer data

• Forced ransom payments

How to defend:

• Acronis anti-ransomware to block encryption attempts

• Acronis backup for instant restore without paying attackers

3. Insider Errors

Most breaches happen from simple mistakes — not hackers.Employees may download unsafe apps, fall for scams, mishandle files, or misconfigure systems.

Risks:

• Accidental data deletion

• System infections

• Sensitive information leaks

How to defend:

• Ongoing cybersecurity awareness training

• Posture management tools that detect and prevent risky actions

4. Data Theft Through Cloud Apps

Cloud platforms like Microsoft 365 and Google Drive are convenient — but not automatically backed up or monitored.

Risks:

• Deleted files cannot be recovered

• Unauthorised file sharing

• Exposed confidential documents

How to defend:

• Managed M365 protection and backup

• Access control, activity logs, and file monitoring

5. Weak Password Policies

Many SMEs still use weak or repeated passwords across multiple systems — making it easy for attackers to break in.

Risks:

• Email account takeovers

• Stolen company data

• Compromised cloud access

How to defend:

• Enforce strong passwords automatically

• Enable MFA and set centralised login policies

See how ACE CyberShield protects SMEs — with up to 50% PSG funding support.

Want a stronger, complete defence for your business?

Book a free consultation to check your eligibility today.

Contact Us

For any enquiries, please contact us at 📩 enquiry@acebizservices.com or 📞+65 6262 0402.

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