COVINGTON, Ky. — For over 20 years, local IT firm C-Forward has been dedicated to helping businesses navigate and reduce security breaches, offering tailored cybersecurity solutions that ensure their operations run smoothly.
With the ease of booking hotel stays online, customers often trust that their personal and payment information is secure. For Commonwealth Hotels, a company operating dozens of hotels across the country, maintaining that trust is one of their top priorities. Paul Stanton, Vice President of Commonwealth Hotels, emphasized the importance of a robust IT system to support their facilities.
“You have to maintain the facility, and these days everything is electronic and computer-driven. Someone needs to manage these systems and really understand what’s going on,” Stanton explained.
Commonwealth Hotels, despite managing many properties, operates with a smaller team of around 50 individuals responsible for handling finances and customer service on the backend. C-Forward plays a critical role in ensuring that the company’s IT infrastructure remains secure and efficient. “This is our centralized accounting office and support center. All the financial records from our hotels come in electronically every day,” Stanton added.
According to StrongDM, another data company, cybersecurity for small and mid-sized businesses is at higher risk, as 46% of cyber breaches impact businesses with fewer than 1,000 employees. And nearly half of businesses with fewer than 50 employees have no dedicated cybersecurity budget. For those that experience a breach, 29% responded by hiring a cybersecurity firm or IT staff.
Brent Cooper, CEO of C-Forward, said his company’s mission is to educate small businesses on how to safeguard their operations. He stressed cybersecurity requires a multi-layered approach. “Small businesses are often surprised to learn that there isn’t a single solution. It usually takes a combination of tools and training to provide strong cybersecurity,” Cooper said.
Stanton agreed, noting that many small businesses don’t have the resources to stay fully protected. “You’re focused on growing your business and might not be looking to spend on the latest antivirus or threat protection,” he said.
Despite the challenges, both Stanton and Cooper agree that investing in cybersecurity is essential. And businesses don’t have to do it alone. “Small businesses sometimes feel like they’re on their own,” Cooper explained. “That’s why companies like ours are here—to serve their needs and keep them secure.”
As the digital threat landscape continues to grow, small businesses must prioritize protecting their data. With the right support, those risks can be effectively managed.
Besides its ongoing commitment to cybersecurity, C-Forward recently announced that it has transitioned to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), giving its team of more than 35 employees ownership in the company.
With a focus on both security and employee engagement, C-Forward is not only protecting small businesses but also investing in its future as a locally owned organization.