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Managed Wi-Fi SolutionsPosted 25th July 2025
It’s every business owner’s worst nightmare… you switch on your computer on a Monday morning, ready to tackle the week ahead, and something’s not right. Files are missing, your systems are frozen, or there’s a worrying message on screen demanding payment.
Cyberattacks aren’t just reserved for big organisations. In fact, small businesses are increasingly becoming prime targets because they often lack the resources and protection of larger organisations. If your business ever falls victim to a cyberattack, knowing what to do next can make all the difference.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you respond quickly, calmly, and effectively.
1. Stay Calm and Don’t Panic
We know, it’s easier said than done, but panic can lead to mistakes. Take a deep breath and try not to react impulsively. Disconnect the affected device(s) from the internet to prevent the attack from spreading any further through your network. If possible, isolate any other connected systems as well.
2. Alert Your Team Immediately
Whether you have two staff members or twenty, communication is key. Let your team know what’s happened and ask them to stop using any affected systems or devices. Encourage them to report any unusual behaviour on their devices too, like pop-ups, sluggish performance, or login issues.
If you have an internal procedure or playbook for cyber incidents, now’s the time to use it.
3. Call in the Experts
This is where we come in. A reliable IT support and cybersecurity partner (like LP Networks!) will help you assess the damage, stop the attack in its tracks, and start the recovery process. We can also help identify how the breach happened - whether it was a phishing email, a weak password, or a vulnerability in your software.
Getting expert help early can save you time, money, and stress.
4. Preserve the Evidence
While your first instinct might be to delete everything and start over, it’s important to keep any logs, messages, or suspicious files. These could be useful for investigators or even your cyber insurance provider. If you report the incident to the police or the Information Commissioner’s Office, they’ll want as much detail as possible.
Your IT team or provider will also use this evidence to understand exactly what happened, and how to prevent it in future.
5. Let the Right People Know
Depending on the type of cyberattack and the data involved, you might be legally required to notify customers, suppliers, or regulatory bodies. If personal data has been compromised, you may need to report the breach to the ICO within 72 hours.
It’s not an easy message to deliver, but transparency is key to maintaining trust, especially if customer data has been affected.
6. Change Your Passwords (All of Them!)
One of the simplest but most important actions you can take. Make sure you and your team reset all passwords across affected systems, and avoid reusing old ones. Where possible, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of protection.
7. Review and Strengthen Your Cybersecurity Measures
Once the immediate crisis is under control, it’s time to reflect and reinforce. What can you learn from the attack? Could regular patching, improved staff training, or better backup systems have reduced the impact?
At LP Networks, we can help you carry out a full cybersecurity review, implement stronger defences, and ensure your business is better prepared for next time (although we hope there won’t be one!).
8. Stay Vigilant Moving Forward
Cybercriminals don’t sleep, and unfortunately, once a business has been attacked once, it can be targeted again. Keep your staff informed, stay up to date with the latest cyber threats, and make cybersecurity part of your everyday business practices.
We regularly share tips and updates on our blog, so keep an eye out.
Final Thoughts
Being hit by a cyberattack is stressful, disruptive, and can be seriously damaging, especially for small businesses. But acting quickly and having the right support makes a huge difference.
If you ever find yourself facing a cyber incident, remember you’re not alone. LP Networks are here to help you recover, learn, and bounce back stronger.
Need help now or want to strengthen your cybersecurity before something happens?
Get in touch with our friendly team today, we’re always happy to chat!
