Norton Expands Protection for Small Businesses Amid Rising Digital Threats
In response to the growing wave of digital threats such as data breaches, account takeovers, and online scams, Norton has significantly enhanced its security offerings for small businesses. This evolution is crucial as cybercriminals increasingly target smaller firms, making robust cybersecurity measures more essential than ever.
Addressing Increasing Digital Threats
According to Gen’s Q2 Threat Report, there has been a staggering 21% increase in business-targeted data breaches and a remarkable 68% rise in attacks specifically aimed at small enterprises within the first half of 2025. The strategies of cybercriminals are evolving; they often leverage stolen data from the dark web to impersonate legitimate businesses, leading to potentially severe financial and reputational damage for those lacking sufficient protection.
Deval Patel, Head of Small Business at Gen, emphasized the pressing need for effective security tools: “Today, small businesses are targets like everyone else and they need the right tools to help protect them from very real threats. A cyber incident can cripple a small business by tarnishing its reputation and draining financial reserves.” Recognizing the high stakes, Norton has enhanced its Small Business solution, which many smaller companies already rely upon, by adding essential features for better security.
New Monitoring Features for Enhanced Security
One of the most significant updates is the introduction of advanced Dark Web Monitoring. Norton now actively scans for key business-specific identifiers such as Company Name, Tax ID numbers, and VAT numbers. Should any of this sensitive information surface on dark web marketplaces, small business owners receive immediate alerts, enabling them to swiftly mitigate potential risks.
Additionally, the newly integrated Social Media Monitoring feature focuses on safeguarding business accounts on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. This functionality provides early warnings about possible account takeovers, phishing attempts, or any suspicious activity. The urgency for such protection has become increasingly clear; Gen’s analysis indicates a marked rise in financial scams and fraudulent support requests emerging from social networks.
In today’s digital marketplace, social media has become a cornerstone for many businesses, essential for managing reputations and engaging customers. These advanced alerts empower companies with critical insights that allow them to address and contain security issues before they can escalate into a crisis.
Availability of New Features
The updated Dark Web Monitoring tool is part of Norton’s Small Business Standard and Premium plans, accessible in regions including North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, and Japan. Meanwhile, the Social Media Monitoring feature is specifically offered through the Premium package, available currently in the US and UK.
Changing Landscape for Small Businesses
Traditionally perceived as less attractive targets compared to larger organizations, small businesses are now under increasing pressure to bolster their cybersecurity measures. Many of these enterprises lack sophisticated digital defenses, which renders them particularly vulnerable amidst an uptick in cybercrime. Attackers are capitalizing on exposed business credentials and social profiles, exploiting the intricate digital landscape to execute their malicious agendas.
Patel underlined the diverse threats small businesses face today, advocating for a comprehensive security approach that encompasses data protection, financial oversight, and safeguarding online presence. He stated, “Thousands of small businesses trust the comprehensiveness of Norton Small Business to help safeguard their data and customers.”
The Evolving Threat Landscape
As the frequency of data breaches and fraud attempts via social platforms continues to rise, the security landscape for small businesses is relentless in its evolution. Tools that offer reactive alerts and actionable insights on potential breaches and suspicious activities can play a vital role in enabling businesses to act quickly and minimize losses. By strengthening their security posture, small enterprises can better navigate the challenges of today’s digital world, ensuring both their data and their reputation remain protected.
