Strengthening Your Cyber Security with the Updated SMB1001 Standard

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Many small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are continually adapting to stay ahead in business. One way of achieving this is to safeguard against growing cyber threats through an annually updated standard. 

The SMB1001 cyber security standard was designed to help SMBs attain this goal. It aims to address their unique cyber security challenges in terms of cost, flexibility, and scalability. 

In this article, we’ll explore the 2025 updates to the SMB1001 and how they impact SMBs.

SMBs are High-Risk Cyber Targets 

SMBs continue to face increasing cyber threats, including ransomware, email compromise, and phishing scams. They can lead to severe financial losses, data breaches, and reputational damage. 

The Annual Cyber Threat Report 2023-2024 cited how the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) described SMBs as “high-risk targets for ransomware attacks.” It also noted how the self-reported cost of cyber-crime went down 8% for businesses overall but went up 8% for smaller organisations. 

The SMB1001 Updates and What They Mean to SMBs

The recent changes to SMB1001 are a significant milestone in the world of cyber security frameworks and standards. It reflects DSI‘s commitment to enhance user experience and system performance.  

The updates are part of a broader strategy and sets the stage for future advancements and improvements. It focuses on optimising various aspects of the standard and providing a better user experience.  

Here are the key SMB1001:2025 updates: 

New Control for Remote Desktop Protocol 

SMBs certifying to Levels 3, 4, and 5 are encouraged to ensure that Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is enabled only over virtual private network (VPN) connections. RDP allows users to remotely access their computers, but it can be a target for cyber-attacks if not properly secured. This can reduce the risk of unauthorised access and data breaches, adding an extra layer of security. 

Expanded Certification Levels  

SMB1001’s multi-tiered certification model has been refined and expanded to better meet SMBs’ needs. The updated framework now has five distinct levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond.  

Each level has specific requirements that help organisations slowly but surely boost their digital protection.  

With this approach, a business can start with basic security measures and progressively enhance their cyber security posture, as they grow and their needs evolve. It provides a clear roadmap with more achievable and more manageable steps.

Alignment with Global Standards 

The updates allow SMBs to align with multiple standards and frameworks worldwide, including the ACSC’s Essential Eight, UK Cyber Essentials, and the US DoD’s CMMC. This ensures that SMBs can meet international security requirements, enhancing their credibility and competitiveness on a global market.  

Further Improvements to the SMB1001 Cyber Security Standard 

The standard will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant against new and emerging cyber threats. This allows SMB1001 to adapt to the evolving cyber situation, incorporate the latest security practices, and address new vulnerabilities. It means SMBs can rely on the framework for up-to-date guidance, helping them deal with potential threats.

What These Changes Mean for Existing SMB1001 Users 

In summary, the SMB1001 updates are designed to benefit SMBs. They can more easily achieve risk reduction, easier implementation, and enhanced compliance after they switch to the updated framework. 

Transitioning to the updated SMB1001 framework is a straightforward process for organisations already using the standard. First, they must perform a gap analysis to identify areas needing improvement. Next, they should update their policies and controls to align with the new requirements, focusing on enhanced security measures.  

Implementing the SMB1001 Framework through CyberShield 

SMB1001 has revolutionised how SMBs approach cyber security. To further support SMBs in implementing this standard, ADITS built a unique solution called CyberShield.  

CyberShield is a comprehensive cyber security solution designed to align seamlessly with SMB1001. It focuses on data privacy and compliance, with a combination of people skills, internal processes, and technology. 

Practical steps for integration include conducting a risk assessment, implementing essential security controls, and continuously monitoring and updating security measures.  

By adopting the SMB1001 framework enhancements, SMBs can work toward strengthening their cyber security posture. The recent updates provide a clear roadmap for improving their security measures more easily. With CyberShield, SMB1001 empowers SMBs to stay ahead of cyber threats, enhance their digital advantage, and meet community expectations. 

Learn more about how CyberShield can meet your requirements.

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