[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.29)” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_post_title meta=”off” featured_placement=”background” text_color=”light” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ title_font=”|700||on|||||” title_text_color=”#ffffff” title_font_size=”30px” background_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.15)” background_image=”https:\/\/paladinpointofsale.com\/retailscience\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/06\/RS-July24_IndyBusiness-600-1.jpg” background_position=”top_center” background_blend=”color” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ text_orientation=”center” custom_padding=”15%||15%” z_index_tablet=”0″ title_text_shadow_style=”preset5″ title_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” title_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” title_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” meta_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” meta_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” meta_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” text_shadow_style=”preset2″ parallax_effect=”on” module_bg_color=”rgba(255,255,255,0)” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_fullwidth_post_title][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”0px|0px|18.95px|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Preamble” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Hardware stores have long been the backbone of small communities across the country. These stores, with their friendly staff and personalized service, have weathered many storms over the years, including the pandemic and its challenging recovery. However, since retail has evolved into an increasingly digital process, new and invisible threats \u2013 cybersecurity attacks \u2013 have become more prominent and must be included in operating plans by retail businesses of all sizes.<\/p>\n
Consider these startling small business numbers:<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=”From 2022 to 2023, there was a 20% increase in data breaches ” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ image_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – From 2022 to 2023″ _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”600ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”In 2021, 61% of small businesses were targeted by cyberattacks ” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ image_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – In 2021″ _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”600ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”51% have no cybersecurity measures in place ” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ image_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – 51% have no” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”600ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”47% have no cybersecurity budget ” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ image_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – 47% have no ” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”600ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”36% of small business owners are \u201cnot at all concerned\u201d about cyberattacks ” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ image_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – 36% of small” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”600ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text admin_label=”In today\u2019s digital age” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
In today\u2019s digital age, even if a store isn\u2019t selling products online, it\u2019s likely ordering supplies, communicating with vendors, and interacting with customers via email. This digital footprint increases the risk of a network breach, which can have devastating consequences.<\/p>\n
A network breach can lead to operational disruption. Ransomware, for instance, can shut down a store until its network is cleaned or a ransom is paid. This not only halts business operations but also incurs significant financial losses. Moreover, a breach can result in the loss of customer confidence. Losing critical customer information, such as credit card details, phone numbers, and addresses, can lead to a loss of customers or even lawsuits.<\/p>\n
Instituting cybersecurity into business operations is often a huge challenge for small stores which lack the technical skills or operating budget to do so.<\/p>\n
Dara Warn, CEO of INE Security, highlights the challenge: \u201cThe skills shortage remains a significant challenge for small and mid-sized businesses, as many do not feel they have the resources to invest in cybersecurity.\u201d<\/p>\n
According to Statista, businesses worldwide spend an average of 12% of their IT budgets on cybersecurity. For example, if a company pays $3,000 monthly to an IT managed service provider, its cybersecurity budget would be about $360 per month.<\/p>\n
This is where Paladin Data Corporation can help. As a leading provider of retail management software solutions, Paladin offers Managed Services that are tailored to the needs of small hardware stores.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Brandon Hays” job_title=”Managed Services Lead” company_name=”Paladin Data Corporation” quote_icon_color=”#cc6633″ quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” author_text_color=”#FFFFFF” position_text_color=”#FFFFFF” company_text_color=”#FFFFFF” background_color=”#3e5062″ global_colors_info=”{}”]Most of our clients are small, independent business owners. They have just a few computer terminals. They don\u2019t have enough resources for an IT department, which covers antivirus, backup solutions, and general network management. That\u2019s where we can help. We\u2019re the IT guys. Our Managed Services handles those chores for these businesses, plus we take care of their point-of-sale software and system.<\/span> Paladin\u2019s Managed Services provide a comprehensive solution to the cybersecurity challenges faced by small hardware stores. Here\u2019s how:<\/p>\n Paladin\u2019s team continuously monitors the store\u2019s network for any signs of unusual activity. This proactive approach ensures that potential threats are identified and mitigated before they can cause harm. Regular maintenance and updates keep the system running smoothly and securely.<\/p>\n With robust antivirus and anti-malware solutions, Paladin ensures that the store\u2019s computers are protected against the latest threats. This protection is crucial in preventing ransomware attacks and other malicious activities that can disrupt operations.<\/p>\n Data is the lifeblood of any business. Paladin\u2019s Managed Services include regular data backups and a reliable recovery plan. In the event of a breach or system failure, the store\u2019s data can be quickly restored, minimizing downtime and loss.<\/p>\n The point-of-sale (POS) system is a critical component of any retail business. Paladin ensures that the POS system is secure and compliant with industry standards. This not only protects customer information but also enhances the overall efficiency of the store\u2019s operations.<\/p>\n Human error is often the weakest link in cybersecurity. Paladin provides training and resources to help store employees recognize and respond to potential threats. This education empowers employees to be the first line of defense against cyberattacks.<\/p>\n Every hardware store is unique, and Paladin understands that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn\u2019t work. The company\u2019s Managed Services are customized to meet the specific needs and budget of each store. This personalized approach ensures that the store gets the protection it needs without unnecessary expenses.<\/p>\n Cyberthreats don\u2019t adhere to business hours, and neither does Paladin\u2019s support team. With 24\/7 support, store owners can rest assured that help is always available when needed. This round-the-clock support provides peace of mind and ensures that any issues are promptly addressed. Paladin protection also provides a single contact for store owners to call should anything happen to their network or POS system.<\/p>\n Zane Ollie Chunn, owner of Ollie\u2019s Lumber Company Ace Hardware with stores in Eastern Oklahoma, has twice found out how valuable having Paladin Managed Services can be.<\/p>\n The business has been hit twice with ransomware over the past few years. Both times, Paladin\u2019s Managed Services and technical support helped the stores recover quickly.<\/p>\n \u201cBoth times, Paladin was fabulous in getting our data back on the computers and everything cleaned up,\u201d Zane explains. \u201cWe were able to keep both stores running, and by about the third day, Paladin had wiped the computers clean, and we were operating at full strength.\u201d<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Upshot” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The digital landscape presents both opportunities and challenges for small hardware stores. While the threat of cyberattacks is real and growing, solutions like Paladin Data Corporation\u2019s Managed Services offer a robust defense. By partnering with Paladin, small hardware stores can focus on what they do best\u2014serving their community\u2014while leaving the complexities of cybersecurity to the experts.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Author” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Author<\/span> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Cybersecurity isn’t just a big business problem. Attacks are increasing against small businesses, so having robust protection is a necessity.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":29782,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[3,16,4,18],"tags":[152,153,303,97],"class_list":["post-29780","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-all-posts","category-how-tos","category-industry-news","category-retail-hacks","tag-cybersecurity","tag-cybersecurity-awareness-month","tag-paladin-data-corporations","tag-paladin-point-of-sale","et-has-post-format-content","et_post_format-et-post-format-standard"],"yoast_head":"\n
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Upshot<\/span><\/h3>\n
brian bullock\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n