10 Free CyberSecurity Tools and Resources for Small Businesses
Cybersecurity does not have to be expensive or complicated. Many organisations provide free tools and resources that can help protect your business from common cyber threats.
Below are ten trusted tools that small businesses can use to improve their cyber security awareness and protection.
1. Bitwarden – Password Manager
Bitwarden is a secure password manager that helps you store and generate strong passwords.
Why it’s useful
- Stores passwords securely in an encrypted vault
- Generates strong, unique passwords
- Prevents password reuse across accounts
- Can be used on computers, phones, and browsers
Best for: Businesses wanting a simple way to manage passwords securely.
Note: A free version is available, with optional paid plans for teams.
2. Have I Been Pwned – Data Breach Checker
Have I Been Pwned allows you to check whether your email address or company domain has appeared in known data breaches.
Why it’s useful
- Alerts you if your accounts have been exposed
- Helps identify compromised passwords
- Very quick and easy to use
Best for: Monitoring company email accounts for breaches.
3. Google Security Checkup – Account Security Review
Google Security Checkup reviews the security settings of your Google account and recommends improvements.
Why it’s useful
- Shows devices currently logged into your account
- Detects suspicious activity
- Recommends simple security improvements
Best for: Businesses using Gmail or Google Workspace.
4. Malwarebytes – Malware Scanner
Malwarebytes helps detect and remove malware, spyware, and other threats from computers.
Why it’s useful
- Fast scans for malware and ransomware
- Removes threats traditional antivirus may miss
- Very easy for non-technical users
Best for: Checking computers for infections.
Note: The free version provides malware scanning and removal.
5. KeePass – Offline Password Manager
KeePass is a free password manager that stores passwords locally in an encrypted file on your computer.
Why it’s useful
- Completely free and open source
- Strong encryption for password storage
- Works without storing data in the cloud
Best for: Businesses that prefer to keep passwords stored locally.
6. ScamAdvisory – Scam Detection Tool
ScamAdvisory helps users check whether websites, email addresses, or phone numbers may be linked to scams.
Why it’s useful
- Check suspicious websites before clicking links
- Verify email addresses for signs of fraud
- Look up suspicious phone numbers
- Analyse potentially dangerous files
Best for: Quickly checking suspicious messages or links.
7. One-Time Secret – Secure Secret Sharing
One-Time Secret allows you to share sensitive information, such as passwords, using a secure link that can only be viewed once.
Why it’s useful
- Share passwords securely
- Messages automatically self-destruct after being viewed
- Prevents sensitive data being sent via email or chat
Best for: Securely sharing confidential information.
8. Shodan – Internet Exposure Search
Shodan is a search engine that helps identify devices and services connected to the internet.
Why it’s useful
- Shows what systems may be visible online
- Helps identify accidental exposure of services
- Improves awareness of external cyber risks
Best for: Understanding what parts of your infrastructure may be publicly visible.
Note: Limited searches are available for free.
9. KnowBe4 – Security Awareness Training
KnowBe4 provides cybersecurity awareness training and phishing simulations to help employees recognise cyber threats.
Why it’s useful
- Teaches staff how to spot phishing emails
- Reduces human error
- Builds a stronger security culture
Best for: Improving staff cyber awareness.
Note: Free resources and trial tools are available.
10. VirusTotal – File and Link Scanner
VirusTotal allows you to scan suspicious files or links using dozens of antivirus engines at once.
Why it’s useful
- Check files before opening them
- Analyse suspicious links from emails
- Uses multiple security tools simultaneously
Best for: Investigating suspicious downloads or email attachments.
A Quick Note
Many cyber security tools offer free versions with optional paid features. The tools listed here can still provide valuable protection for small businesses without requiring large budgets.
Need Help Improving Your Cyber Security?
North East Digital Skills supports organisations across the region with practical cyber security guidance, training, and awareness sessions.
If you would like help improving the security of your organisation, feel free to get in touch.
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