Cyber Incidents Businesses May Face in 2026 

Cyber threats are evolving rapidly, and many companies realize the risks they face today are very different from those they faced even a few years ago.

As more companies rely on cloud platforms, online scheduling tools, POS systems and remote access, the opportunities for attackers continue to grow. For many business owners, the challenge is keeping up with how these incidents unfold in the real world.

Ransomware Targeting Cloud Accounts

Ransomware has been around for years, but attackers are getting smarter about how they deploy it. Instead of going straight for local files, they often start by accessing cloud storage or synced backups. Once they get in, they quietly delete or encrypt those backups before locking down devices.

A consultant, accountant or law firm that believes its files are safely stored in the cloud may discover that everything is compromised, resulting in a complete halt to operations and a long road to recovery.

POS System Disruptions for Retailers and Restaurants

Retailers and restaurants rely heavily on POS systems to keep business moving. These systems are convenient, but they are also prime targets. Attackers look for outdated software, weak vendor credentials or exposed remote access points.

When a POS system is compromised, the impact is immediate. Payments stop processing, online orders fail and staff scramble to find workarounds. Even a short outage can lead to lost revenue and frustrated customers.

Scheduling System Takeovers

Service-based businesses depend on online scheduling tools to manage appointments and communicate with clients. These platforms often connect to email, calendars and payment systems, which makes them appealing to attackers.

A single compromised password can give someone access to the entire scheduling system. From there, they can cancel appointments, send fake payment requests or impersonate the business in messages to clients.

Data Breaches Involving Sensitive Information

Businesses that handle financial records, medical information or customer data face heightened exposure. Attackers know that this information is valuable and that businesses often feel pressure to respond quickly to avoid regulatory issues.

A breach can start with a compromised email account. Once inside, attackers may forward documents, download files or quietly monitor communications. The fallout often includes required notifications, potential regulatory scrutiny and reputational harm.

Incidents Stemming From Third-Party Vendors

Many Maryland businesses rely on outside providers for payroll, document storage, scheduling or payment processing. If one of those vendors experiences a breach, the effects can spread quickly.

Even if your systems are secure, you may still need to notify clients, investigate the incident and take steps to protect affected data.

Social Engineering Targeting Employees

Attackers are getting better at impersonating real people. They use publicly available information and AI-generated messages to create convincing emails or voicemails that appear to come from a supervisor, vendor or client.

An employee might receive a message that sounds exactly like the business owner asking for an urgent password reset or payment update. These incidents are difficult to detect because they feel personal and time-sensitive.

Website and E-commerce Attacks

Businesses that accept payments or manage customer accounts on their websites face additional risks. Attackers may insert malicious code into checkout pages, skim payment information or redirect customers to fraudulent sites.

Often, the first sign of trouble is a sudden drop in completed orders or customer complaints about unusual pop-ups or redirects. By the time the issue is discovered, sensitive information may already be compromised.

Business Insurance Can Help

A robust business insurance plan, including cyber liability coverage, can help manage the financial impact of cyber incidents.

If you want to explore business insurance options, the team at Lyceum Insurance Services is available to help. Contact us today.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.