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How MSPs Can Get Their Clients to Focus on Cybersecurity

May 21, 2025
How MSPs Can Get Their Clients to Focus on Cybersecurity

Every MSP knows the importance of focusing on cybersecurity for their clients; however, small business owners do not seem to appreciate the gravity of the threat they face. The statistics on cyberattacks against small businesses are staggering:

  • 43% of all cyberattacks target small businesses
  • 95% of cybersecurity incidents result from human error
  • 37% of ransomware attack victims employ fewer than 100 employees
  • 60% of SMBs that suffer a cyberattack are closed within 6 months
  • 75% say they could not operate if attacked with ransomware
  • 40% of small businesses reported losing data due to cyber incidents

Small businesses are prime targets for cybercriminals looking to exploit vulnerabilities. MSPs play a crucial role in helping their clients navigate these risks, understand potential threats, and build a robust cybersecurity posture. How can MSPs craft their message to help SMBs understand the importance of their cyber health?

Use Real-World Examples

Unfortunately, people tend to wait until disaster strikes before acting. Use real data to show your prospects the danger they are facing. Uplevel Systems provides our MSP partners with detailed information on attacks prevented and country of origin of attacks.  In addition, detailed reports are sent out monthly to highlight attempts.   

Block customer data and print out the report. Share the data with prospects to show the number of attempts made on a similarly sized company in their town. If possible, utilize industry specific data and highlight any local events.

Offer Free Cybersecurity Risk Assessments

MSPs can perform comprehensive risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities in their prospects’ systems. By showing businesses where they are most at risk, MSPs can help prioritize security efforts and allocate resources effectively.

Show How Easy It Is to Get Hacked 

Demonstrate common attack methods like phishing emails, weak passwords, and unpatched software. Business owners may assume they’re protected until they see how simple it is for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities.

Run a Simple Security Check 

Offer a free risk assessment or a basic security review of their business systems. If you can identify weak points and show how easily they could be compromised, they’ll be more likely to take action.

Focus on What is Important to the Prospect

A huge mistake that many MSPs make is focusing solely on what they think should be the prospect’s biggest concern. In doing so, they fail to answer the prospects’ questions. Make sure you listen to your prospects and clearly address their concerns. In the process, you will win trust and be able to point out other areas of concern. Some key issues may need to be addressed after your new client is satisfied that you have solved their initial problems.

Final Thoughts

Getting a small business owner to understand the threat of cybersecurity starts with making the risks feel real and relevant. Many SMBs feel they are too small for attacks and/or they cannot afford to take preventative measures. Overcome these objections by educating prospects with real-world data and facts, and offer a free cyber security analysis.  

Contact Uplevel Systems to learn how we can assist you in providing a robust and secure network for your clients.