by Nick Saccomondo
Cyberattacks are no longer rare events. Their frequency is up, and the stakes are higher. According to the 2024 Sophos State of Ransomware Report, almost 60% of U.S. organizations reported being attacked by ransomware.
Average cost of a U.S. data breach (2024): $9.36 m — nearly 2x the global average of $4.88m.
Source: Embroker
Whether it’s an employee clicking a link they shouldn’t, or an unpatched system left exposed, attackers are constantly scanning for vulnerabilities — and they only need to get lucky once.
At Macro, we’ve seen firsthand how one small oversight can turn into a major business disruption.
Below are the five most common ways cybercriminals get in and what your business can do to keep them out.
1. Phishing: It still works
Phishing emails are slicker than ever — disguised as trusted vendors, internal memos, or even executives. One click on a malicious link can hand over login credentials or install malware in seconds.
Phishing continues to be the most common email attack method, accounting for 39.6% of all email threats.
What to do:
Educate your team regularly with security awareness training. Deploy email filtering solutions that automatically flag or quarantine suspicious messages before they reach inboxes.
2. Compromised credentials: Your passwords are the master key
Stolen, weak or reused passwords are like a master key for hackers. Once they get in, they can move laterally across your systems, gaining access to sensitive data and core applications.
81% of hacking-related corporate breaches stem from weak or reused passwords or other credential issues.
Source: Spacelift
What to do:
Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) everywhere. Require complex, unique passwords and implement a password management system to make compliance easy and secure. We’ve partnered with 1Password to lock down passwords for our clients.
3. Exploited vulnerabilities: Outdated software opens doors
Unpatched systems and applications are one of the most common entry points for attackers. Vulnerabilities in your operating systems, applications, or network devices are often published publicly — and hackers move fast to exploit them.
Windows 10, the world’s most widely used business operation system, will reach end-of-life on Oct. 14, 2025.
Businesses who fail to upgrade to Windows 11 before the deadline will become a prime target for eager hackers.
What to do:
Keep all software up to date with automated patching. Consider managed IT services that include vulnerability scanning and proactive updates across your environment. And if you still haven’t upgraded to Windows 11, start by reading our blog post.
4. Malware & Ransomware: Silent and deadly
From spyware to full-blown ransomware attacks, malicious software can spread quickly and quietly, encrypting files, stealing data, or even taking down entire networks.
42% of incident response cases in 2024 involved malware.
Source: IMB X-Force
What to do:
Invest in advanced endpoint protection. Segment your network. Back up your data regularly — and make sure those backups are encrypted, isolated, and tested.
5. Insider Threats: Negligence (or Malice) from within
Employees may not intend to expose your business to risk — but poor password habits, unsafe downloads, or falling for a phishing scam can open the door just the same. In rare cases, insider threats are deliberate.
95% of breaches in 2024 involved human mistakes
What to do:
Apply least-privilege access policies. Monitor network activity for unusual behavior. And foster a culture where cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility.
What’s your plan?
Bottom line? Businesses are facing more attacks, more often and they’re getting harder to spot and stop. The best defense is a layered one — where people, processes, and technology work together to identify risks early and respond fast.
At Macro Technology Group, we help businesses like yours close security gaps before they become entry points. Our managed IT services offer proactive monitoring, patch management, advanced threat protection, and user training — all backed by a dedicated team who knows your business.
Need help strengthening your security posture?
We're here to help.
