What does AI Mean for Today’s SMBs

 

Remember when you could spot a phishing email by its clumsy spelling mistakes, odd formatting, or the way it addressed you as “Dear Customer” instead of by name. For small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), the rule of thumb was simple, if it looked suspicious, it probably was.

But those days are gone.

Artificial intelligence has transformed phishing from an occasional nuisance into a highly sophisticated, targeted threat. Attackers now have the tools to craft convincing emails, clone voices, and even generate deepfake videos that can fool employees into handing over passwords, funds, or sensitive information. And unlike in the past, these scams don’t look sloppy they are more likely be polished, persuasive, and frighteningly realistic.

The Rise of “AI-Powered” Phishing

Think about the difference, an old phishing email might awkwardly ask you to “confirm your account.” An AI-generated phishing email, on the other hand, could sound like it came from your actual supplier, referencing a recent order or invoice. Even voice phishing has changed for example an employee could receive a phone call that sounds like the managing director urgently requesting a bank transfer. For SMBs, where communication is often direct and trust-based, this can be devastating.

What SMBs Can Do About It

This might sound overwhelming, but here’s the good news: AI isn’t just in the attackers’ hands. It’s also reshaping the way businesses can defend themselves. AI-driven email filters can spot patterns humans might miss. Security platforms can detect unusual behaviours like logins from unusual locations or large data transfers late at night and raise red flags before the damage is done.

Still, technology alone isn’t enough. Protection against phishing remains as much about people as it is about software. Training staff to question unusual requests, building a culture where it’s okay to double-check, and creating simple processes for verifying sensitive actions (such as a second approval for any payments) can make all the difference.

Even something as straightforward as multi-factor authentication can turn what might have been a successful phishing attack into a failed attempt. Think of it as adding deadbolts to the digital doors of your business.

Why This Matters Now

Phishing has always been about exploiting human trust. AI just makes the lies harder to spot. For SMBs, the stakes are higher than ever one compromised account or one rushed bank transfer could mean the difference between a close call and a business-ending event.

But with awareness, the right tools, and a commitment to ongoing training, businesses can stay ahead of the curve. The threats are evolving but so are the defences.

Taking the Next Step?

If you’re wondering where to start, the most important thing is not to wait until after an attack to act. Why not visit Cyber Padlocking we have practical tips that can help you spot the threats as well as  services and tailored solutions designed specifically for your business to successfully navigate today’s threat landscape. It’s about making cybersecurity feel less like a technical headache and more like a natural part of protecting your business.

The future of phishing may be powered by AI, but so can your defence.