Posted: May 7, 2026 / 03:21 PM PDT
Updated: May 7, 2026 / 03:21 PM PDT
In today’s digital world, protecting your business goes far beyond just installing antivirus software. On this edition of The Chamber Perk, Shannon O’Brien of O’Brien Technologies highlighted the growing need for stronger cybersecurity practices—and it starts with education.
Through their “Educate and Protect” initiative, O’Brien Technologies is working to close a major gap they’ve identified across businesses of all sizes: the human element. Many cyber threats don’t come from sophisticated hacks alone, but from simple mistakes like clicking a phishing link or misunderstanding how data is stored. One common myth? Believing that cloud services like OneDrive or SharePoint automatically back up your files. In reality, without proper backup systems in place, businesses could still lose critical data.
Another misconception is that small businesses aren’t targets. In fact, they’re often more vulnerable because they lack comprehensive protection. O’Brien explained that relying solely on outdated tools like firewalls and antivirus software is no longer enough. Modern cybersecurity requires layered protection across all devices, networks, and even backup systems—especially when it comes to defending against ransomware attacks.
Prevention is key. Regular employee training, staying up to date on evolving threats, and working with knowledgeable IT professionals can make all the difference. Cybersecurity isn’t a one-time setup—it’s an ongoing process that requires attention from everyone in an organization.
For businesses looking to strengthen their defenses, O’Brien Technologies offers guidance and support tailored to today’s risks. To learn more, call 661-432-1301 or visit obrienmsp.com.