IT Security for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs)

Yes. Our IT security services for small and medium-sized businesses are modular and can be customized with great flexibility. You can combine individual services as needed or start with a package and later add additional modules. For example, it’s possible to start with the Basic package and switch to the Advanced or Professional package as your security needs grow. Individual add-ons—such as a phishing test, a penetration test, or specialized security awareness training—can also be added at any time.

Given the increasing sophistication of attacks, standard antivirus protection alone is no longer sufficient to reliably protect a company. Many modern threats bypass signature-based virus scanners—such as fileless malware (which does not match conventional virus signatures) or zero-day exploits, for which there are no detection rules yet. In addition, cybercriminals are increasingly targeting the human factor (phishing emails, social engineering), against which antivirus software offers little protection. Therefore, a holistic security approach with multiple layers of protection is needed: In addition to antivirus protection, a powerful firewall, regular security updates for all systems, multi-factor authentication, security monitoring, and employee training should be implemented. Only with such a multi-layered defense strategy can today’s IT environment be effectively secured against the wide variety of modern attacks.

Many of the recommended security measures can be implemented very quickly, especially those in the Basic Package. Often, initial “quick wins”—such as closing critical vulnerabilities or optimizing configurations—can be addressed immediately after the Cyber Risk Check. More extensive measures from the Advanced and Professional packages (such as the introduction of new security tools or more complex network restructuring) may take a little longer, but typically range from a few weeks to several months. Importantly, Apollon Security supports you in implementation with proven processes, ensuring that no time is wasted and tangible improvements are achieved quickly. Through smart prioritization (addressing urgent issues first), we ensure that your company quickly benefits from a higher level of protection.

Cybercriminals are now specifically targeting small and medium-sized enterprises as well. This poses significant risks for SMEs: phishing scams, ransomware attacks, or data theft can lead to financial losses, business disruptions, and reputational damage. In the worst-case scenario, a single successful cyberattack can result in legal consequences (e.g., GDPR fines) and jeopardize the company’s very existence.

• Practical IT Security Assessment:
  Thanks to a clearly defined checklist, you’ll receive a well-founded assessment of your current IT security situation. The CyberRisikoCheck is based on proven BSI standards and provides you with a structured analysis—presented in an easy-to-understand format and without unnecessary complexity.
  
• Customized recommendations for sustainable security:
  You’ll receive not only an overview of potential vulnerabilities but also concrete, prioritized measures to optimize your IT security. The recommendations are specifically tailored to the needs and resources of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), so you can begin implementation right away.
  
• Fast and resource-efficient implementation:
  The CyberRiskCheck offers an efficient alternative to time-consuming IT audits. Within a short time, you’ll gain valuable insights into your security posture without tying up internal resources long-term.
  
• Strengthening resilience against cyberattacks:
  By regularly reviewing your IT security measures, you increase your company’s resilience against digital threats and ensure sustainable protection.
  The CyberRisikoCheck helps you identify risks early on and take timely countermeasures.
  
• Greater compliance and trust among customers and business partners:
  A strong IT security strategy signals professionalism and reliability. Participating in the CyberRiskCheck shows your customers and partners that you take IT security seriously—a decisive competitive advantage in the digital business world.
  
• Transparency regarding investments and funding opportunities:
  Optimizing IT security doesn’t have to be expensive: The CyberRisikoCheck not only provides clarity on necessary measures but also highlights which government funding programs are available to help reduce your investment costs.

The three packages differ in the scope of the security measures and services they cover. The Basic package includes all essential IT security analyses and measures to ensure solid foundational protection—for example, an initial cyber risk assessment and essential protective measures (such as firewall and antivirus checks, a backup strategy, and basic employee awareness training). The Advanced package also includes in-depth analyses and additional services, such as more comprehensive vulnerability testing, enhanced network security, regular updates and patch management, employee training, and the development of detailed security policies. The Professional Package offers the most comprehensive protection: It includes all the services of the smaller packages and supplements them with advanced services such as regular penetration tests, security monitoring by a team of experts, and more intensive, personalized support from our security experts.

There are various funding opportunities that can help your company improve its IT security. Programs are available at both the federal and state levels that provide financial relief specifically to SMEs for implementing security measures.

• Federal Program “Funding for Management Consulting Services for SMEs”: This program covers up to 80 percent of the costs of consulting services, up to a maximum of 2,800 euros. This allows you to receive professional support in analyzing and optimizing your IT security strategy.
• “NRW – MID Digital Security” Initiative: Designed specifically for companies in North Rhine-Westphalia, this program offers support for improving digital security. Funding is available for training sessions and workshops, among other things. You can apply for between 4,000 and 15,000 euros in funding over a 12-month period.
• Regional Funding Programs: In addition to federal initiatives, there are also regional programs that provide targeted support to companies seeking to improve their IT security. The amount of funding and the exact eligibility requirements vary by state.