Endpoint Security Gaps That Leave Businesses Vulnerable to Cyberattacks

When Baltimore health system MedStar was offline due to a ransomware attack, the company could not access patient records, and doctors were canceling appointments. The system was compromised because of one unsecured endpoint - a device that was a weak link in the chain.

For many Maryland mid-sized businesses, the same risks lurk closer than they think. Employees can sign in from laptops, tablets, and phones every day, but just one unprotected device can open the door to a costly breach.

This blog will summarize how businesses fail to protect themselves, what myths are holding them back, and how to discover and address the gaps before attackers find them.

Myth vs. Reality: The Endpoint Security Landscape

Myth 1: Antivirus is enough

"Many Maryland businesses still rely on basic antivirus software."

Reality: Modern ransomware and phishing attacks easily bypass legacy antivirus software. According to IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report 2024, 76% of breaches involved compromised or stolen endpoints.

Solution: Businesses need Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), which continuously monitors endpoints for malicious behavior as it relates to malware and detects suspicious behaviors to stop them before the damage is done.

Myth 2: Small and mid-sized businesses aren’t targets

"I'm not a Fortune 500 company; hackers won’t bother with me."

Reality: The FBI's Internet Crime Report 2024 revealed that 47% of all cyberattacks target small and mid-sized companies, because they are perceived as having weaker defenses.

Solution: Every device, whether in Arlington, Bethesda, or Baltimore, must be treated as a potential attack surface.

Myth 3: Strong passwords will protect us

Sure, a strong password helps, but it won't stop a determined attacker by itself.

Reality: Stolen or weak passwords caused over 80% of hacking-related breaches (Verizon DBIR 2024).

Solution: Multi-factor authentication (MFA) should never be optional. Even with a stolen password, MFA can prevent unauthorized access.

5 Red Flags That Your Endpoint Security Has Gaps

Believe your business is safe? Take this quick self-assessment to find out:

• No Multi-Factor Authentication - Your employees are logging on with just a password.
• Outdated Devices - Your laptops or servers are running software with unpatched vulnerabilities.
• Shadow IT - Your employees are using personal devices or unapproved apps to do work.
• No Employee Training - Your employees do not know how to recognize phishing emails.
• No 24/7 monitoring - You have no eyes on suspicious activity until it is too late.

If you thought you might have nodded "yes" to any of the above, you may put your business at risk.

How Maryland Businesses Can Close the Gaps

• Utilize Managed IT Security – Work with specialists like Omega Technical Solutions who specialize in protecting mid-market businesses from security events throughout the state of Maryland.
• Implement an Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) solution - A program and continuous monitoring to catch threats early.
• Train Your People – Human Error will always be the number one cause of breaches. Regular phishing simulations will significantly reduce risk.
• Secure The Cloud – With more employees working remotely, ensure cloud apps have access controls and monitoring in place.

The Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) offers current advice for securing endpoints against ransomware. One significant way to bridge endpoint security gaps is to partner with a trusted Managed IT Services provider. Omega Technical Solutions offers Managed IT Services for Maryland businesses that deliver continuous monitoring, real-time response, and simplified management for every device and system. This deeper support model is precisely what stops cyber threats before they spread.

Conclusion

Endpoint security isn't just an issue related to IT; it's a survival issue for your business. One compromised laptop or phone can stop your operations overnight, while also eroding the trust of your customers.

Maryland businesses don't have to handle this alone. With the right tools, training, and support, you can work with a trusted partner like Omega Technical Solutions to identify endpoint security gaps before attackers do.

Don't wait until you experience a breach to find your vulnerabilities. Start auditing your devices, policies, and protections now.

Want to find out where your business stands? Book a security audit with Omega Technical Solutions

to start your journey toward a safer and more resilient IT environment.