It’s overwhelming that approximately 87 percent of small business owners think that they aren’t at risk of being hacked. The truth is that all businesses, regardless of their size, are vulnerable to hacking, so investing in cybersecurity measures is vital. Some attacks can easily cripple your business despite its level!
Hackers can steal customer data, money, vendor information, and employee details. This data breach will damage your relationships with all stakeholders. But it’s easy to set up cybersecurity for your business. Keep reading to learn more.
1. Train Employees
All employees in your business should participate in your security plan. Create policies for your business and educate employees on the importance of cybersecurity. Ensure that the plan has the best practices that employees should follow. Train them on procedures for keeping customer, vendor, and employee information safe. Additionally, your cybersecurity policy must contain procedures that employees should follow in case of a breach.
Ensure that employees know that creating strong and unique passwords for all accounts is essential. Every mobile device or desktop used in the office should have a strong password. Two-factor authentication should not be overlooked.
2. Back-Up Data Regularly
A breach can occur despite taking precautions, so prevent attacks from all angles. Some recommendations include backing up electronic spreadsheets, payable files, word processing documents, financial files, and accounts receivable. Information stored in the cloud should be backed up as well.
Remember to store backups in separate locations for safety in case of floods or fire. Check the back up on a regular basis to make sure that you have the latest information. Also, keep programs up to date to protect data from all possible attacks.
3. Limit Access
Don’t allow unauthorized people to access accounts and company computers. This should include trusted, well-known people. For instance, a client should not be allowed to use a company computer to look something up. You can’t be sure about people’s intentions.
Employees of various positions and ranks in a company should access technology using different routes. Employees should avoid sharing their information with others. For instance, an accountant shouldn’t share the accounting software password with the human resource manager.
4. Use A Firewall
A firewall is a pivotal defense when it comes to cyber-attacks. According to recommendations by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), a business should use a firewall to prevent cybercriminals from accessing data.
Many companies are installing internal firewalls to strengthen the standard external firewall. This additional protection isn’t something that a business should overlook. Employees working remotely should also install a firewall to protect confidential information.
5. Install Anti-Malware Software
Your employees might not know about open phishing emails. According to the Verizon 2016 Data Breach Investigations Report, 30% of employees were victims of open phishing emails. Phishing involves installing malware on the target’s computer when a link is clicked. Installing anti-malware software to secure your network is the best solution.
Cybercriminals advance their techniques every day. You also need to remain proactive in protecting your data. Every employee in your business should prioritize cybersecurity. Always be on the lookout to learn more about the latest prevention technology and attacks.
