These days, it feels like everything is online — from how you take payments to how you talk to customers. But with all that convenience comes risk, and more and more small businesses are finding themselves targeted by cybercriminals.

If you’re a business owner, especially in a close-knit community or rural area, you might think cybercrime isn’t something you need to worry about. But the truth is, scammers often target small and local businesses precisely because they think you’re less protected.

So how can you tell if your business is cyber safe? And what steps can you take to protect yourself, your money, and your customers? Let’s walk through it all — plain and simple.

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Phishing and Email Scams

Phishing is one of the most common scams out there. It usually shows up in your inbox as an email pretending to be from your bank, a vendor, or even someone on your team.

Red flags to watch for:

  • Spelling mistakes or strange grammar
  • Urgent language like “Your account will be locked!”
  • Email addresses that almost look right (e.g., @erg0bank.com)
  • Links that don’t match the real website

What you can do:

  • Don’t click anything in a suspicious email — especially attachments or links
  • Call the company directly to verify the message
  • Train your employees to do the same

Fake Invoices and Payment Fraud

Scammers are getting more creative with payment fraud, especially when it comes to tricking businesses into wiring money. This often involves something called business email compromise, where the scammer pretends to be someone you trust.

Common scenarios:

  • A vendor sends a “new” bank account to send payment to
  • You get a message from your “boss” asking you to send money ASAP
  • An invoice shows up for a service or product you never ordered

Ways to protect your business:

  • Always confirm payment changes by phone, not email
  • Set up dual approval for payments (two people sign off)
  • Review transactions often to catch anything strange

QR Code Scams and Mobile Payment Risks

QR codes are super convenient, but they’re also easy to tamper with. Scammers can print a fake QR code and stick it over a real one, tricking you or your customers into visiting a malicious site.

Tips for QR code safety:

  • Don’t scan codes from unknown sources
  • Check the URL before entering any login info
  • Use a trusted QR code tool if you create them for your business
  • Educate employees to look before they scan

Passwords and Access Control

This one seems simple, but it’s incredibly important. Weak or shared passwords are one of the biggest risks to small businesses.

Password best practices:

  • Use long, unique passwords for every account
  • Don’t reuse personal passwords for business accounts
  • Consider using a password manager to keep track of them
  • Update passwords regularly

Access control tips:

  • Only give employees access to what they need
  • Remove access immediately when someone leaves your team
  • Regularly audit who has access to sensitive systems

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

If you’ve ever had to enter a text code in addition to your password to log in — congrats, you’ve used MFA!

Why it matters:

Even if someone steals your password, MFA stops them in their tracks by requiring a second form of ID — like a code sent to your phone or an app notification.

Enable MFA for:

  • Business bank accounts
  • Email and communications platforms
  • Payroll and HR systems
  • Any software or app with sensitive information

Device Security and Software Updates

Cybercriminals look for vulnerabilities in outdated systems. That’s why keeping your devices updated is one of the easiest ways to stay safe.

What to stay on top of:

  • Install software updates for computers, phones, POS systems, etc.
  • Use antivirus software and keep it updated
  • Set up firewalls on your network
  • Avoid using public Wi-Fi to access sensitive systems

Social Engineering: People Tricks

Not every scam comes through your computer — sometimes, it comes through a phone call or text. Social engineering is when scammers manipulate people into handing over access or information.

Common examples:

  • Someone pretending to be IT support asking for login info
  • A fake “CEO” calling in a rush, asking you to wire money
  • A fraudster pretending to be your bank

How to protect your team:

  • Create a culture of “pause and verify”
  • Train employees to spot suspicious behavior
  • Make sure everyone knows it’s OK to ask questions

How Ergo Bank Helps You Stay Cyber Safe

We know small business owners have a lot on their plate. That’s why Ergo Bank is here to be more than just your bank — we’re your partner in protection.

Here’s how we help:

  • Secure business banking tools with user-level access
  • Transaction alerts that help you spot issues fast
  • Dual control options for added payment protection
  • Friendly, local support — you can always call or stop by to talk to a real person
  • Ongoing tips and education to help you stay one step ahead

If something feels off, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re just around the corner — and always happy to help.

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Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Cyber threats are real, but staying safe doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Start by reviewing these basics with your team:

  • Are our passwords strong and unique?
  • Do we use MFA where we can?
  • Are we verifying payments and account changes?
  • Have we trained staff on how to spot scams?

And remember — you’re not in this alone. Ergo Bank is here to support your business every step of the way, with real advice and real solutions from people you trust.

Want help reviewing your business account setup or learning about fraud prevention tools?

Reach out to your local Ergo Bank branch today.

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