Arizona Launches SecureAZ to Enhance SMB Cybersecurity

Categories: Arizona Business NewsArizona State News

Local business leaders collaborate to enhance cybersecurity for SMBs through the SecureAZ initiative.

News Summary

Arizona has launched SecureAZ, a nonprofit initiative aimed at improving cybersecurity for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) across the state. Founded by local business leaders and cybersecurity experts, SecureAZ offers enterprise-level solutions tailored to the unique needs of SMBs. With a significant percentage of Arizona businesses lacking adequate cybersecurity measures, this initiative seeks to mitigate risks, provide educational resources, and enhance overall security to safeguard the state’s economic supply chain and resilience against cyber threats.

Arizona is taking a proactive step to bolster cybersecurity for its small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with the launch of SecureAZ, a new nonprofit initiative formed by local business leaders. The organization aims to provide enterprise-level cybersecurity solutions and risk mitigation strategies designed specifically for the needs of SMBs across the state.

The creation of SecureAZ comes in response to the growing awareness of the essential role that SMBs play within Arizona’s economic supply chain. As approximately 85% of businesses in the state employ fewer than 20 people, ensuring their resilience against cyber threats is crucial for maintaining the broader economic stability of Arizona. Furthermore, statistics reveal that cyber vulnerabilities can jeopardize not only individual businesses but also the larger enterprises that depend on them.

SecureAZ is determined to improve cyber preparedness among SMBs while offering educational tools that enhance overall security. Current data illustrates a concerning trend: nearly 60% of small businesses that fall victim to a ransomware attack may not recover and thus go out of business. Alarmingly, around 50% of small businesses in Arizona currently lack any cybersecurity measures, leaving them exposed to potential threats.

In 2024, Arizona ranked 9th in the United States for financial losses stemming from phishing and online scams, with a staggering total loss of $392 million. This alarming figure further emphasizes the urgency for effective cyber solutions within the state. SecureAZ plans to address these vulnerabilities by removing barriers to cyber insurance and providing affordable, accessible cybersecurity solutions.

Founded by a coalition of cybersecurity experts and business leaders, SecureAZ focuses on safeguarding Arizona’s growth and economic development. By bridging the gap between complex cybersecurity technologies and the practical needs of smaller businesses, SecureAZ is poised to deliver a first-of-its-kind approach in the region. Among its initiatives, the nonprofit will work on securing licenses for enterprise-grade software, enhancing security monitoring specifically for SMBs, and increasing access to comprehensive insurance products tailored for them.

ABC Company’s leadership recognizes that helping establish SecureAZ aligns with its commitment to supporting essential economic partners in the region. This collaboration illustrates the interdependence between SMBs and larger enterprises in ensuring a fortified supply chain against cyber threats.

A significant challenge faced by SMBs is the struggle to acquire advanced cybersecurity tools and insurance, despite their eagerness to improve security. SecureAZ aims to work closely with local cybersecurity experts, educational institutions, and insurers to develop practical solutions that meet these businesses’ specific needs.

Evan Daniels, a former director at the Arizona Department of Insurance & Financial Institutions, emphasizes the necessity for a collaborative approach among businesses, government, and educational sectors to protect Arizona’s economy from escalating cyber threats. This collaborative ethos is a core aspect of SecureAZ’s mission, urging organizations to unite in the fight against cyber vulnerabilities.

The organization encourages businesses and community members to support its mission through engagement and participation. SecureAZ’s website serves as an informational resource, outlining available services and how businesses can benefit from participating in this crucial initiative.

As the digital landscape evolves, the need for strong cybersecurity measures grows ever more pressing. SecureAZ seeks to empower Arizona’s SMBs to navigate the challenges of the digital age confidently, ensuring they can thrive without the crippling fear of cyber threats. With the support of the community, SecureAZ is set to play a pivotal role in securing the economic future of Arizona.