Supply Chain Cybersecurity: Why Your Vendors Could Put You at Risk 

Your business likely depends on other companies to supply goods, services, or technology. But did you know that a cyberattack on one of your vendors could impact your business, too? In 2025, supply chain cybersecurity will be a hot topic as more businesses become aware of this hidden risk. 

What is Supply Chain Cybersecurity? 
When we talk about the “supply chain,” we’re referring to the network of vendors and suppliers that provide your business with the goods or services you need. But if one of those vendors gets hacked, it could open the door for cybercriminals to access your data or disrupt your operations. 

Why SMBs Should Care
Even if your business has strong security measures in place, your vendors might not. Cybercriminals often target smaller, less secure companies in the supply chain as a way to gain access to bigger businesses. This means your security is only as strong as your weakest link. 

How to Protect Your Business
Here are a few steps to secure your supply chain: 

  • Assess Your Vendors: When choosing suppliers, make sure they have solid cybersecurity practices in place. Ask questions like, “How do you protect customer data?” and “Do you have a plan in case of a cyberattack?” 

  • Limit Data Sharing: Only share the data that’s absolutely necessary with your vendors. The less access they have, the less damage a breach can cause. 

  • Monitor for Threats: Use tools that can monitor your network for unusual activity. If something looks off, you can act quickly to prevent an attack from spreading. 

Stay Safe Together
Supply chain security is a team effort. Make sure you’re partnering with vendors who take cybersecurity as seriously as you do, and don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions. 

Is your business ready for 2025?

Kurt Ketcham

About Kurt Ketcham

Simplex-IT, Professional Services Director

Kurt is the Professional Services Director at Simplex-IT and has a BS in Information Technology from Youngstown State University. Kurt has spent his entire career working in IT. He was a member of an in-house IT department at a regional pallet manufacturer for over a decade before transitioning to Simplex-IT in 2017. Kurt started at Simplex-IT as a service desk technician and gradually started taking on project work before becoming the project team lead. Now as Professional Services Director, Kurt manages the scoping, quoting, and execution of all projects as well as handles IT-oriented quarterly business reviews and vCIO functions with clients.

Connect with Kurt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-ketcham/

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