As we close out another year of rapid digital evolution, one thing is clear: cybersecurity isn’t standing still, and neither can we. From small businesses to global enterprises, the threats are growing more sophisticated, more frequent, and more personalized.
At SelecTech, we work closely with small and mid-sized organizations across industries. And 2025 confirmed what we’ve been seeing for years: the security landscape keeps changing, and your defenses need to evolve even faster.
Here’s a look at the key lessons from 2025 and how to stay ahead in 2026.
2025 Review: What We Learned
- Phishing Got Smarter (and More Convincing)
This year, phishing wasn’t just sloppy emails riddled with typos. Attackers used AI-generated messages, business email compromise tactics, and even lookalike domains to fool users into clicking.
Lesson: Human error is still the top vulnerability. Ongoing training and simulations are a must, even for seasoned employees.
- Shadow IT Is No Longer in the Shadows
Employees continued using unauthorized apps and tools to stay productive, especially in hybrid and remote setups. Unfortunately, these unsanctioned tools became unmonitored entry points for attackers.
Lesson: Businesses need visibility into every device and application that touches their network. MDM and Endpoint Management tools like Microsoft Intune can help.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Is a Must, But Not a Silver Bullet
MFA adoption grew across small businesses, and for good reason: it’s one of the most effective defenses. But attackers adapted by targeting MFA fatigue, spoofing mobile prompts, or tricking users into sharing codes.
Lesson: Use phishing-resistant MFA when possible, and back it with clear employee training.
- Backups Must Be Ransomware-Ready, Not Just Tested
In 2025, several organizations faced a harsh reality: they had backups but still couldn’t recover. Why? Because testing alone isn’t enough when ransomware strikes. Many backup solutions weren’t designed to withstand modern threats, leaving data encrypted, corrupted, or completely inaccessible.
Lesson: A solid backup plan goes beyond routine testing. Rather, the backup solution should have characteristics that allow an organization, in the worst-case scenario, to recover from a ransom event. Our backup solution has those characteristics.
- Zero Trust Shifted from Buzzword to Business Imperative
With remote access, hybrid environments, and cloud apps everywhere, the old “castle-and-moat” security model just doesn’t cut it. More small and medium businesses embraced Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) as a modern solution.
Lesson: Identity and access management need to be at the center of your security strategy. Solutions like Microsoft Entra and SonicWall Cloud Secure Edge make Zero Trust achievable even for small teams.
Looking Ahead: Cybersecurity Trends for 2026
Here’s what we expect to see (and help our clients navigate) in the year ahead:
- Increased Automation in Attacks
AI and automation tools will make cyberattacks cheaper, faster, and easier to launch, especially for phishing and ransomware. Small businesses will need layered defenses more than ever.
- Human-Centered Security Will Gain Traction
Training isn’t about fear anymore – it’s about empowering your people to make smart choices. The most secure companies will build a culture, not just a checklist. (Watch for a big announcement from SelecTech in January that will help your organization make this more effective!)
- Cloud Security Will Get Scrutinized
As more businesses move to Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, or SaaS tools, attackers are following the data. Misconfigured access, shared logins, and over-permissioned users will be hot targets.
- More Attention on Device Security and Management
From laptops to mobile phones, endpoint protection will be critical, especially for remote teams. Expect more interest in MDM tools like Microsoft Intune.
What You Can Do Now
As we turn the calendar to 2026, take time to review your current security posture. Ask:
- Do we have MFA across all critical apps and systems?
- When was the last time we tested our backups?
- Can we confidently manage the devices that access our network?
- Is our staff trained to recognize modern phishing threats?
- Do we have visibility into all applications being used?
If you’re unsure, or if your team is stretched thin, we’re here to help.
We specialize in making IT clear, approachable, and effective for small and medium-sized businesses. Whether you’re just getting started with a cybersecurity strategy or looking to level up what you’ve built, we bring deep expertise with a human touch.
Let’s Make 2026 More Secure – Together.