In today’s fast-paced digital world, cybersecurity threats are evolving at an alarming rate. One recent case offers a jarring wake-up call to firms of all sizes: Jackie Marie Peters. No, not a disgruntled client or overworked IRS agent, but a convicted fraudster who orchestrated a sophisticated cyberattack on a small CPA firm.
Peters hacked into the firm’s network, manipulated over 40 client tax documents, and redirected $2.5 million in refunds and relief payments into accounts she controlled. The kicker? She and her accomplices remained undetected in the firm’s system for two years.
If that sounds extreme, it shouldn’t. The tools used in attacks like this are becoming more accessible, and small to midsize businesses are often prime targets due to limited security infrastructure.
What This Means for Your Business
Too often, firms believe they’re “too small” to be targeted. But as Peters’ case proves, cybercriminals don’t need a massive firm; they just need a foot in the door. With the rise of AI-driven threats and increased computing power, incidents like these are not just possible, they’re likely.
This case highlights three key takeaways:
- Every Business is Vulnerable
Cyberattacks aren’t reserved for big firms. Smaller organizations are often more appealing targets due to weaker defenses. - Cybersecurity Is a People Problem
Most breaches begin with human error—clicking a phishing email, using weak passwords, or neglecting protocols. Investing in people is just as critical as investing in tools. - Leadership Sets the Standard
A culture of security starts at the top. When leadership prioritizes cybersecurity, the rest of the organization follows.
What’s Best for Your Business
Cybersecurity is not one-size-fits-all. Just like no two businesses operate the same way, your cybersecurity strategy should reflect your unique risks, infrastructure, and growth goals.
If your team believes it’s “too small” to be a target, think again. Threat actors like Jackie Marie Peters prove that even local firms with modest client bases can be lucrative targets. That’s why cybersecurity needs to be intentional, not just reactionary.