Cybersecurity in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises: A Bibliometric Analysis

This study delves into the critical domain of cybersecurity within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through a meticulous bibliometric analysis. Scopus electronic database, renowned for its inclusivity of various publication formats, serves as the primary source for data retrieval. Through a meticulously crafted search strategy, 888 publications spanning the years 2014–2023 were unearthed, encompassing a spectrum of scholarly outputs such as journal articles, conference papers, and contributions from a staggering 112 countries worldwide. The amassed publications command significant attention, garnering over 8000 citations, with an impressive average of nearly 9.4 citations per record. Furthermore, authorship analysis underscores a culture of collaboration within this scholarly domain, with an average of 3.2 authors per publication, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature and collective endeavor inherent in tackling cybersecurity challenges within SMEs. Data cleaning and analysis tools like Microsoft Excel and VOSviewer will be utilized to explore publication trends, prominent research areas, and potential knowledge gaps within the field of SME cybersecurity. Keyword analysis unveils four pivotal emerging themes: integrating digital technologies while managing risk, emphasizing information management for securing cloud-based operations, addressing specific cyber threats and vulnerabilities, and advocating for proactive information security risk management with cost-effective solutions. This study offers a comprehensive picture of emerging trends, key research areas, and potential knowledge gaps within the field. These insights will be valuable for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners working to strengthen the cybersecurity posture of SMEs on a global scale.