Why is cybersecurity essential for SMEs?

Cybersecurity is crucial for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises as they face increasing cyber threats, often with limited resources to defend against them. In recent years, incidents such as data breaches, ransomware and phishing attacks targeting SMEs have surged.

Despite facing the same risks as larger firms, only 28% of SMEs rate their ability to mitigate these threats as highly effective. With sensitive data at risk and potentially severe financial consequences, it’s vital for SMEs to invest in cybersecurity solutions, staff training and vulnerability management to protect their operations and reputation.

Rise in cyber incidents targeting SMEs
SMEs confident in their cybersecurity measures
Companies hit by ransomware in 2023
Increase in phishing attacks since 2018


Growth in advanced malware and ransomware attacks


*Statistics on cyber incidents, preparedness, ransomware, phishing and malware are sourced from reports by Sophos, Ponemon Institute, Verizon, Fortinet and Trend Micro.

Why choose CYSSME?

Free cyber audits

Tailored security evaluations to optimise your company’s defences.

EU-supported

Backed by the European Commission to strengthen digital security across SMEs.

Expert guidance

Access industry-leading expertise to identify and mitigate risks.

How it works

1. Apply for free assistance

Secure your spot by completing a simple application.

2. Security assessment

We analyse your current security posture.

3. Plan ahead

Together, we identify gaps and action points to improve.

4. Take action

Implement the recommended measures to enhance security.



What you get

Maturity assessment

Gain insights into your organisation’s security approach and risk profile through a comprehensive questionnaire designed to assess your current security measures.

External scan

Identify potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers scanning your IT and network systems remotely.

Internal scan

Obtain a detailed report on vulnerabilities within your technology, personnel and processes, including all devices connected to your internal network. This also includes a phishing test – crucial since 90% of cyber-attacks start with phishing.

Reporting and follow-up

Receive a summary of the audit findings along with practical recommendations for improvement, all backed by the expertise of an experienced cybersecurity consultant. Follow-up sessions will ensure continued support for bolstering your cybersecurity defences.

Why is it free?

CYSSME is funded by the EU, allowing us to provide free cybersecurity audits to hundreds of SMEs, as part of an EU initiative to improve cybersecurity across Europe. The aim is to help participating companies strengthen their security measures, while also creating a knowledge base that will be shared widely to help other SMEs reduce their vulnerability to cyber threats.

The CYSSME project is part of the DIGITAL-ECCC-2022-CYBER-03 open call. This initiative is financed by the European Union’s Digital Europe programme under Grant Agreement 101128101 and is supported by the European Cybersecurity Competence Centre.


European solutions for a secure future

We understand the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures and effective risk management solutions tailored for SMEs. Our range of products and technologies includes EU-made assessment, discovery and management tools – all designed to protect your business.

Only SMEs can apply

The project grant specifies that only SMEs qualify for this funding. For eligibility criteria, please refer to the European Commission’s website.

Benefits on offer


Compliance readiness

Ensure your business meets the latest cybersecurity standards.

Minimised risks

Protect your assets from cyber threats.

Cost-free expertise

Benefit from professional assistance at no cost.

Success stories


BIVOLINO PREFERS TO STEP CAREFULLY

Online fashion company Bivolino, which makes custom shirts, has been improving its cybersecurity for years. Recently, CYSSME introduced an assessment service for small businesses, and Bivolino used this chance to check how secure they are. Bivolino wants to be known as careful and responsible when it comes to protecting their customers’ and partners’ personal data and transactions.

Join us and secure your future

Apply for your free cybersecurity improvement project today.

We kindly request some basic details from you. Providing this information is entirely voluntary, and you may disclose as much as you feel comfortable with. We will handle your data with the utmost care and only share specifics with you and the partners of CYSSME.

INTAKE FORM FOR SMEs