New Delhi, Oct 9 (KNN) The Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in the Asia-Pacific region are susceptible to cyber-attacks and data breach, a recent report by ESET, an IT security company, revealed.

The report said that the Small and Medium scale enterprises (SMEs) are integral parts of Economy in the Asia Pacific region have witnessed numerous cyber breaches so far. Out of the 1500 SMEs surveyed in five countries Singapore, Hong Kong, India, Thailand and Japan, 54% suffered a major breach last year. Over the last three years 75% of Indian SMEs had suffered a security breach, followed by 61% in Hong Kong, 54% in Singapore and 53% Thailand.

Hong Kong has incurred the most damages in breaches at around $43,607 and India the least about $29,948.

Citing the reasons the report says that the funds allocated for the cyber security in these SMEs are quite low. Most of the firms use firewall and anti-virus software which are not enough to prevent these breaches.

The use of third party network and the new trend of bring your own device (BYOD) is also one of the main reasons behind the widespread hacks. Also, there is a widespread shortage of cyber security experts in the Asia-Pacific region which makes the SMEs susceptible to cyber-attacks.

The firms should incorporate anti-ransom ware and two factor authentications in their system and network monitoring is very important to make the firms safe online but most of the firms lack funds and resources to carry out these preventive measures, the report added. (KNN/AG)