Local Businesses Protect Against AI Cyber Threats

At Beacon Mutual, our focus has always been on helping local businesses keep their employees safe and prevent workplace injuries. But our commitment to local business owners goes beyond workers’ compensation; we care about their overall safety and success. That’s why we’re sharing important information to help protect your business from the growing risks of AI-driven cyber threats.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming small business operations, from automating marketing tasks to improving customer service. But the same tools that help us grow are also empowering cybercriminals to create more believable scams.

AI can now clone voices, generate fake videos, and craft convincing emails or chatbot conversations that look and sound completely legitimate. For small businesses without large IT teams, that can spell trouble.

Top AI-Powered Threats to Watch

Here’s how AI is being used by attackers and what you and your employees can do about it:

1. Deepfakes and Voice Cloning

• What it is: AI can now mimic a person’s voice or even their face on video.
• Example: A scammer calls sounding exactly like your CEO requesting an urgent wire transfer.
• Protect yourself: Always verify financial requests through a second channel (phone, text, or in person).

• What it is: Fraudulent chatbots that pose as HR, IT, or customer support.
• How it happens: A link in an email or text leads to a realistic-looking chat window asking for login info or personal data.
• Protect yourself:
  • Only use official company websites or apps.
  • Never share passwords or payment info through chat.
  • Report suspicious pop-ups or messages to your IT contact.

3. AI-Generated Phishing Emails

• What it is: Emails written by AI that mimic the tone, grammar, and branding of real contacts.
• Example: A “vendor” email requesting invoice updates or payment details.
• Protect yourself:
  • Pause before clicking links or attachments.
  • Double-check sender addresses carefully — one letter off is a red flag.
  • Encourage staff to verify requests through known contacts.

Quick Wins to Strengthen Your Cyber Defenses

• Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for all accounts.
• Use employee training to spot AI-powered scams and social engineering attempts.
• Keep software and security tools up-to-date.
• Encourage a “verify first” culture — it’s better to double-check than risk a breach.

AI can be a powerful business ally — but it’s also a growing weapon in cybercrime. Staying alert and fostering a culture of awareness are your best defenses.

AI offers exciting opportunities for business innovation, but it also introduces new risks that demand awareness and vigilance. By staying informed, training employees, and verifying information before acting, you can help protect your business from cyber threats that target even the most careful companies.

At Beacon Mutual, we're proud to support the local businesses that keep our communities strong, helping you create safe, thriving workplaces where your team can focus on what matters most.