In 2025, the FTC's Safeguards Rule is no longer just a concern for big financial firms it's a direct responsibility for many small businesses, especially those handling consumer financial information. If your business touches any financial data—from tax prep to car loans, you may fall under the revised requirements.
Many small businesses don't realize they're subject to the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA). Under the FTC's 2021 amendments (enforced more rigorously as of 2023 and refined for 2025), the rule now requires much stricter cybersecurity controls. Failure to comply could mean steep fines, lawsuits, and reputational damage.
If you're in auto sales, accounting, financial advising, mortgage services, or even some manufacturing scenarios with embedded financing, read on. Your business likely needs to act now.
The FTC Safeguards Rule is part of the GLBA, which mandates that covered businesses must protect the confidentiality and integrity of customer financial data. The FTC updated this rule to reflect the reality of today's cybersecurity landscape: more sophisticated threats, and more at stake.
While initial enforcement began in 2023, the FTC added new clarifications and enforcement priorities in 2025, including:
You may be subject to the rule if your business falls under the FTC's broad "financial institutions" definition. This includes:
If you're unsure, it's best to consult a cybersecurity partner that understands compliance in your industry.
You're required to implement a written information security program (WISP) with specific controls. These aren't vague suggestions—they're mandatory components.
Managed IT services tip: Even small businesses need a formal plan. "Informal" won't fly with auditors anymore. And yes, you can be audited.
The FTC is paying closer attention to smaller, locally operated firms, especially as attackers continue targeting them with ransomware and phishing scams. Too often, SMBs believe they're "too small" to be worth a hacker's time.
That's no longer true, and it's one reason why enforcement of the Safeguards Rule is tightening. Regulators know that one weak vendor can compromise an entire supply chain.
At Tomorrow's Technology Today, we've seen firsthand how overwhelmed small businesses can get trying to interpret compliance rules. That's why we help companies in Ohio, Indiana, and beyond create realistic roadmaps to stay compliant without breaking their budget.
The consequences of non-compliance can be severe. In 2023 alone, the FTC imposed penalties on several businesses big and small for failing to implement basic security measures.
In some cases, a single breach could be enough to shutter a small company.
You don't need a Fortune 500 IT budget to meet the rule's standards. Here's where to start:
Working with a managed IT partner like Tomorrow's Technology Today ensures these steps are done right without overcomplicating your operations.
Compliance is only one piece of the puzzle. At Tomorrow's Technology Today, we combine local expertise, CJIS-certified support, and a deep understanding of regulated industries to deliver IT solutions that are secure, clear, and cost-effective.
Whether you need help building your WISP, implementing MFA, or conducting a risk assessment, we're here to help with no confusing jargon or surprise fees.
Why Businesses Choose Us:
Don't leave your business exposed to fines, breaches, or reputational harm.
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