Cybersecurity Threats Facing Tulsa Businesses (And How to Prevent Them)

As cybercrime continues to evolve, businesses in Tulsa both large and small are increasingly becoming targets. From phishing emails and ransomware attacks to data breaches and internal threats, the digital landscape is full of potential pitfalls for unprepared organizations.

At Combined Technology, we work with companies across Tulsa to help them identify risks, implement strong cybersecurity protocols, and train employees to recognize and respond to threats. Here are the most common cybersecurity challenges facing local businesses today and how you can prevent them. For a deeper dive into IT security practices specific to high-risk sectors, see our blog on Essential IT Security Practices for Tulsa Financial Businesses.

1. Phishing and Social Engineering Attacks

Phishing remains one of the most prevalent threats in Tulsa and beyond. Cybercriminals impersonate trusted sources like vendors or executives to trick employees into sharing sensitive data or credentials.

Prevention Tips:

• Implement email filtering and spam protection.
• Provide employee training on identifying suspicious emails.
  Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) to limit account compromise.

2. Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware can cripple your business by locking access to critical systems or data until a ransom is paid. This threat is especially dangerous for industries like healthcare, finance, and local services.

Prevention Tips:

• Maintain regular data backups (and test them).
• Patch vulnerabilities in software and systems promptly.
• Employ endpoint protection and behavior-based threat detection.

3. Weak Password Practices

Weak or reused passwords make it easy for hackers to gain access to business systems. Once inside, they can escalate privileges and cause widespread damage.

Prevention Tips:

• Enforce strong password policies.
• Use password managers across your organization.
• Implement MFA on all business-critical accounts.

4. Insider Threats (Intentional and Unintentional)

Employees, contractors, or former staff can sometimes pose cybersecurity risks, either by accident or malicious intent.

Prevention Tips:

• Limit access to sensitive systems on a need-to-know basis.
• Monitor system access and implement role-based permissions.
• Conduct regular security training and exit protocols.

5. Unsecured Remote Access

With remote and hybrid work here to stay, unsecured remote connections leave a wide attack surface open for bad actors.

Prevention Tips:

• Deploy secure VPNs for remote workers.
• Monitor and manage all endpoints.
• Use cloud-based security solutions for visibility and control.

6. Outdated Software and Systems

Running outdated or unsupported systems can expose your business to vulnerabilities that are no longer being patched.

Prevention Tips:

• Schedule regular system and software audits.
• Apply patches and updates promptly.
• Retire legacy systems when possible.

Protecting Tulsa Businesses One Layer at a Time

Cybersecurity isn’t a one-time fix, it’s an ongoing strategy. At Combined Technology, we offer:

• Network security assessments
• Managed detection and response (MDR)
  Endpoint protection and monitoring
• Employee security awareness training

Whether you run a local law firm, retail store, or logistics company, we’ll tailor a security plan that fits your size, industry, and goals. Continuous protection is critical to explore why 24/7 IT monitoring and support is a must-have for businesses in Tulsa.