Article by TekaByte | Posted on July 3, 2025

You’ve heard the phrase, “You get what you pay for.” Nowhere is that more true—or more dangerous—than in IT support.

On the surface, a cheaper managed service provider (MSP) might look like a smart move: basic helpdesk support, a few cybersecurity tools, and a price that doesn’t rock the budget. But take a deeper look, and you’ll find gaps that could cost you far more than you bargained for.

After years of helping small businesses clean up after “bargain-bin” IT, we’ve seen the same pitfalls again and again. Here’s what you need to watch out for—and how to protect your business from hidden IT costs that don’t show up on the invoice.

1️⃣ Skimpy Cybersecurity That Won’t Hold Up

Basic antivirus ≠ real cybersecurity.

That’s all many budget MSPs install—and then call it a day. No multi-factor authentication (2FA). No modern endpoint detection. No staff training. No backup protections when something slips through.

This matters a lot. Today, cyber insurance companies require advanced protections. If you don’t have them in place, your claim could be denied after a breach.

We’ve seen companies take financial hits in the tens of thousands because their MSP didn’t set them up to succeed. That’s not just bad service—it’s negligence.

2️⃣ Backups That Don’t Actually Back You Up

Most business leaders assume platforms like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace are backing up their data.

They’re not.

These platforms offer limited, short-term backups—and most budget MSPs don’t cover third-party apps, CRMs, or cloud software. They may also skip immutable backups, which are now a requirement in many cyber insurance policies.

If you’re unsure what your MSP is backing up, ask now—before you’re the one trying to recover lost data.

3️⃣ Surprise Fees for On-Site Support

Some providers lure you in with low monthly fees, then hit you with extra charges for:

• On-site visits
• Emergencies

We believe IT should be predictable. You should never hesitate to call support because you’re worried about surprise charges. Unfortunately, too many businesses do—and they lose valuable time and money as a result.

4️⃣ “Not Our Problem” Support

Phone system down? Internet glitching? Some IT vendors will simply say, “That’s not our issue.”

Even worse, they’ll charge you just to coordinate with your other vendors—and may refuse to help with anything not on their “approved device” list.

Here’s our approach: If it touches your network, it’s our responsibility. We don’t play the blame game.

5️⃣ No Strategy. No Guidance. Just Tickets.

One of the most overlooked red flags in IT? A one-person show, or an MSP that runs on part-time techs and short-term thinking.

You might get help with tech issues—but not with long-term planning.

What you should get is:

• A dedicated IT advisor (not just a helpdesk)
• Proactive reviews of your cybersecurity, compliance, and backup status
• Tech budgeting support and upgrade planning
• A true technology roadmap tailored to your business

🚨 Bottom Line: If It Feels Too Cheap, It’s Probably Too Risky

Too many SMBs only discover their vulnerabilities after something goes wrong—a ransomware attack, compliance fine, or critical data loss.

By then, it’s too late.

Before you sign that “great deal,” take a second look. Ask the hard questions. Demand real answers. And make sure your provider is protecting more than just your wallet.

💬 Want Peace of Mind? Let’s Start with a Free IT Risk Assessment.

We’ll review your current setup, point out any gaps (if there are any), and give you a clear, jargon-free look at how you can better protect your business.

👉 Click here to book your FREE IT Risk Assessment.