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Table of contents

• Retail is one of the most vulnerable industries
• Small businesses bear almost half of all cyberattacks
• SSL encryption ensures data protection
• Backup solutions restore data quickly
• Firewalls and malware scanning block intruders

Retail is one of the most vulnerable industries

The retail industry is among the top five most vulnerable to cybersecurity attacks. The stakes are high because modern cybercriminals are after more than credit card numbers. They’re targeting the cash flow coursing through online retailers and sensitive personal data with disastrous consequences. Even a single attack can bring a thriving retail business down with repercussions such as compromised customer data, reputational damage, drained bank accounts, and significant regulatory fines. Most organizations doing business in Canada face fines of up to CAD 100,000 for each compliance breach related to data protection. Customer trust is costly to lose.

Small businesses bear almost half of all cyberattacks

43% of all cyberattacks are on small businesses, just 14% of which are prepared to face one. In fact, over 60% are compelled to close within half a year of a breach. According to the World Economic Forum, small and medium-sized businesses spend up to $653,587 on cybersecurity breaches, 95% of which are caused by human error.In 2025, cybercrime costs are predicted to reach $10.5 trillion worldwide, up from $9.5 trillion in 2024. This number is higher than the economies of every country worldwide except China and the US. According to recent statistics, each data breach costs $4.88 million on average. A quarter of all cybercrimes are aimed at retailers. Canadian online retailers who choose a secure web hosting provider will be able to protect their customers’ data and maintain business operations.

SSL encryption ensures data protection

One of the primary ways hosting providers enhance security is through SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificates. SSL encryption ensures that all data exchanged between a website and its visitors remains protected from hackers. Many reputable hosting providers include free SSL certificates in their hosting packages, which helps small retailers secure transactions and build customer trust. In Canada, where consumers are increasingly concerned about data privacy, having SSL protection is not just an option but a necessity.

Backup solutions restore lost data quickly

Data backup solutions are another vital security feature provided by hosting companies. Regular backups ensure that retailers can quickly restore their websites without significant downtime in the event of a cyberattack, accidental data loss, or server failure. Many Canadian hosting providers offer automated daily or weekly backups, storing copies in secure offsite locations to prevent total data loss. This is particularly important for small online retailers who rely on their websites for sales and customer interactions.

Firewalls and malware scanning block intruders

Additionally, hosting providers offer firewall protection and malware scanning to prevent cyber threats. A good hosting service includes built-in firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular security monitoring to detect and block suspicious activities. Some providers also perform daily malware scans and automatic removal, ensuring that websites remain free from harmful software that could compromise sensitive customer information.

Hosts implement real-time monitoring to prevent phishing

Phishing still poses a substantial risk for online retailers. Reliable hosts implement solid real-time monitoring and detection systems to prevent phishing. Automated alerts can help users respond quickly and take measures before risks escalate. Still, businesses should remind employees to interact with emails cautiously. If an employee receives an email from a company they’ve never heard of or a stranger, they should quarantine it.

Recap

• Over 60% of small businesses close within six months of a breach
• 25% of cybercrimes are aimed at retailers
• Hosting providers offer SSL encryption, protecting data exchanged between a website and visitors
• Many Canadian hosts offer automated daily or weekly backups
• They prevent phishing via real-time detection and email removal