Small and Medium Businesses Readiness towards Cyberattacks in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

While large companies have the capability and resources to protect their systems from the increasing number of cyberattacks, little is known regarding the recent cybersecurity preparedness of Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs). The purpose of this study is to examine the factors that impact the SMB's readiness towards cyberattacks, this research used the identified constructs, the SMB's readiness toward cyberattacks, government regulations and support, cyberattacks, awareness of cybersecurity-threat, and information technology risk management that were established in prior research. The findings demonstrated an overall good model. In addition, the results showed that government regulations and support, awareness of cybersecurity-Threat, and information technology risk management have a significant impact on the SMB's readiness toward cyberattack. Furthermore, government regulations and support have a significant impact on cyberattacks and awareness of cybersecurity-threat. These findings can be used to facilitate future studies and improve the existing understanding of how SMBs can be prepared to reduce the incidence and effect of cyberattacks.