BBG Tech: The Cybersecurity Struggles of Small Rural Businesses in West Virginia

By Aiden Satterfield

In the digital age, small businesses face many challenges, and for those located in rural areas like much of West Virginia, cybersecurity is a critical but often overlooked threat. With limited budgets and resources, these businesses are especially vulnerable to cyber attacks, which can have devastating consequences. This article explores the cybersecurity risks small rural businesses face, why they are targeted, and practical steps they can take to protect themselves. The reality is that these crimes may not be reported or seen in the news much, but the threat still exists, and business owners need to be aware.

Small business owners often juggle multiple roles, from operations to finance, leaving little room for cybersecurity expertise. This situation is compounded in rural areas, where access to advanced technology and cybersecurity training is limited. According to Steven Bowcut’s comprehensive guide on small business cybersecurity. Bowcutt is a decorated Vietnam-era veteran who served as a non-commissioned officer in the United States Air Force Military Airlift Command. He is an active member of the FBI’s InfraGard Critical Infrastructure Committee and has over 30 years of experience in the security industry. He founded the Brilliance Security Magazine, where I go to get my cybersecurity news. He states that these enterprises often lack the robust security infrastructure of larger firms, making them easy targets for cybercriminals.

To me, it comes down to three main characteristics that make these businesses so vulnerable: 

Budget Constraints: Small businesses in rural West Virginia operate on tight budgets, making investing in comprehensive cybersecurity solutions difficult. The need to allocate funds efficiently often means cybersecurity is deprioritized.

Lack of Expertise: Many small business owners excel in their trade but need to gain the necessary cybersecurity knowledge. This gap makes implementing effective security measures or recognizing potential threats challenging.

Inadequate Infrastructure: Rural areas often suffer from outdated IT infrastructure, making them more susceptible to cyber-attacks. Older systems and software are more accessible for hackers to exploit, increasing the risk of breaches.

Real-World Examples

A January cyberattack on the municipality of Beckley, West Virginia, highlights the vulnerabilities small towns and their businesses face. The attack caused a security breach within the city’s computer network, impacting the systems that serve approximately 17,000 residents. Officials are still assessing the full scope of the breach, but it underscores the lack of sophisticated security measures.

“We are working diligently to investigate the source of the incident, confirm the incident’s full scope and impact, and identify whether data may be impacted,” the city said in a Facebook post. Mayor Rob Rappold confirmed the attack but did not provide a timeline for when systems will be restored.

This incident is part of a broader trend where local governments and small businesses become targets due to their valuable data and insufficient security resources. The personally identifiable information stored by these entities, such as addresses, driver’s license numbers, forms of payment, and Social Security numbers, makes them attractive targets.

Another example would be In 2017 when Princeton Community Hospital in southern West Virginia experienced a crippling cyberattack from the Petya ransomware, which forced the hospital to replace its entire computer system. The hospital’s data was secure but inaccessible, leading to a complete overhaul of its IT infrastructure. Medical staff resorted to pen and paper, highlighting the severe impact such attacks can have on critical services.

The attack on Princeton Community Hospital made national news and is a reminder of the vulnerabilities healthcare providers face in rural areas. These entities often use outdated systems, making them easy targets for sophisticated cybercriminals.

Why Would Cybercriminals Even Target Small Rural Businesses?

Despite their size, small businesses hold valuable information that cybercriminals can exploit. These businesses are appealing targets for several reasons. 

Here’s the rundown: 

Ease of Attack: Small businesses typically lack sophisticated security measures, making them easy targets for cybercriminals. The perceived low risk and effort required to breach these enterprises make them attractive.

Access to Larger Networks: Many small businesses serve as vendors or partners to larger companies. By compromising a small business, cybercriminals can gain entry into more extensive, more secure networks, amplifying the attack’s potential impact.

Valuable Data: Small businesses often handle sensitive data, such as customer information, financial records, and intellectual property. Although on a smaller scale, data is data. This data is lucrative on the black market, making these businesses prime targets.

Small businesses in rural areas face a variety of cyber threats, with social engineering and malware being the most prevalent:

Social Engineering involves manipulating individuals into divulging confidential information or performing actions that compromise security. Phishing, a common form of social engineering, often tricks employees into clicking malicious links or sharing login credentials.

Malware: Malicious software, including viruses and ransomware, can cause significant damage. Ransomware, in particular, encrypts data, rendering it inaccessible until a ransom is paid. For small businesses reliant on critical data, this can be crippling.

Mitigation Strategies

While the threat landscape is daunting, small rural businesses can adopt several strategies to improve their cybersecurity posture:

Training and Awareness: It is crucial to educate employees about cybersecurity threats and best practices. Regular training on recognizing phishing attempts and maintaining secure passwords can significantly reduce vulnerabilities.

Investing in Security Tools: While budget constraints are a reality, investing in basic security tools such as firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption can provide essential protection. Next-generation antivirus solutions that monitor for abnormal behavior can be particularly effective.

Regular Updates and Patching: Ensuring all systems and software are up-to-date can mitigate the risk of exploitation through known vulnerabilities. Implementing a policy for regular updates is a simple yet effective security measure.

Data Backup and Recovery: Implementing a robust backup strategy can help recover data during a ransomware attack. Regular backups, both on-site and off-site, ensure that critical data is not lost permanently.

Utilizing Free Resources: Organizations like the National Cyber Security Alliance and the Department of Homeland Security offer free resources and assessments to help small businesses enhance their cybersecurity.

Support from the community and government can play a vital role in enhancing cybersecurity for small rural businesses. Programs that provide funding, training, and resources tailored to the unique needs of these businesses can make a significant difference. While small rural businesses in West Virginia face substantial cybersecurity challenges, understanding the risks and implementing strategic measures can significantly reduce their vulnerability. By prioritizing cybersecurity, these businesses can protect their assets, ensure continuity, and contribute to the economic vitality of their communities.

Aiden Satterfield is a cybersecurity student and athlete at Walsh University, and a native West Virginian.
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