It’s 2025, and while tech has moved fast, some of the most important data security trends from 2020 are still very much with us. Fads come and go, but effective security tools and strategies stand the test of time and stay relevant even as cyberthreats evolve.
If you're a small business manager, learning from the past and staying on top of these ongoing trends can help you make smarter decisions and keep your data and customers safe.
Zero trust architecture
Zero trust was a popular buzzword in 2020, and now, five years later, it remains a go-to approach for protecting data and systems. Zero trust means not automatically trusting any user or device, even those inside your network. Instead, every request for access must be verified by integrated security tools.
You’re likely using elements of it already, like multifactor authentication (MFA) or role-based access controls. With hybrid and remote work becoming the new normal and the rise of insider threats, aligning your business’s cybersecurity under a zero trust framework is more important than ever.
Cloud security
Back in 2020, many businesses moved to the cloud in a hurry. Today, most have settled into cloud-first operations, but securing that data remains a priority, as we’ve found that simply moving data to the cloud does not make it immune to attack.
You’re still responsible for how data is accessed and shared on your end under the shared responsibility model. Common mistakes, such as misconfigured settings or poor password practices, are still leading to breaches in 2025.
To stay secure in the cloud:
- Regularly audit user permissions, especially when on- or off-boarding employees.
- Use strong encryption, in transit and at rest, and enforce MFA.
- Monitor file sharing activity with automated tools.
Phishing and social engineering attacks
Phishing was one of the most reported cybercrimes in 2020, and unfortunately, it’s not going away. People still fall for them, and it’s easier than ever for scammers to launch attacks using AI to craft convincing emails, fake login pages, and voice scams.
You might already use email filters and antivirus tools, but just like five years ago, employee awareness is still your best defense. As in 2020, the human element is the weakest link, so cybersecurity training remains a must for every team, especially distributed ones.
Keep your team prepared by:
- Holding regular refresher courses to address new threats
- Running phishing simulation tests and mock attacks to test responses
- Training employees to spot and report suspicious messages
- Updating security awareness training programs regularly
Regular updates to data privacy laws
The wave of privacy laws that began with high-profile regulations such as GDPR and CCPA hasn’t stopped. In 2025, more regions and industries have adopted or introduced data protection laws, and small businesses are no longer flying under the radar.
As regulators alter compliance requirements in the face of evolving cyberattacks, you are responsible for updating your cybersecurity posture to remain in compliance. Ignorance of regulatory changes is not an excuse, so consider working with an IT consultant who has compliance expertise to ensure your bases are covered.
Managed cybersecurity services
Having an outsourced IT services provider handle cybersecurity tools and monitoring was popular among tech-based SMBs five years ago, but now they are widely popular with businesses in all industries. Virtually all businesses require the internet to operate competitively, but not everyone has the resources and expertise to keep up with the latest online threats.
That’s where managed services providers (MSPs) like XBASE come in. We apply our decades of expertise to align your cybersecurity posture with NIST and ITSG-33 standards and implement customized tools to keep your business safe from all manner of threats. For an affordable, fixed monthly fee, you get supreme protection and peace of mind by leaving your cybersecurity in the hands of seasoned experts.
Contact XBASE for a consultation and we’ll show you how.