SMBs depend on cloud but distrust providers

DIGIT reports that small businesses are increasingly dependent on cloud and AI platforms while simultaneously expressing deep concerns about how those providers handle their data.

A survey of 3,000 decision-makers at companies with fewer than 250 employees in Proton's 2026 SMB Cybersecurity Report found that cyber threats remain widespread, with more than one million small businesses hit by attacks last year and 26% reporting a recent serious breach. Those incidents led to data loss for 46% of victims, operational disruption for 38%, legal costs for 35%, and financial theft for 39%. Despite the risks, 92% of SMBs say they invest in cybersecurity through tools such as multi-factor authentication, encryption, and staff training, partly because 66% believe strong data protection is crucial for winning customers.

However, trust in major platforms remains low: although 85% rely on cloud services, only 14% believe providers adequately protect their information. Proton's Raphael Auphan noted a "gap between dependency and confidence," as many businesses depend on platforms whose data practices they do not fully understand.