Having the proper cyber security measures in place is crucial for any business. Big corporations are the ones that usually end up in the news when they are faced with cyberattacks. Small businesses, however, are just as likely to be victims. Hackers are particularly interested in these targets because they think that smaller businesses do not take cyber security as seriously as they should.
Be one step ahead of the hackers by incorporating the following 6 practices into your business.
1. Utilize Good Password Management
Even though it is simpler to have one password for everything, every account you have should have a different password. This way, if a hacker is successful in breaking in to one account, they won’t be able to immediately have access to all of your information.
Use a unique combinations of numbers, letters, and special characters. Don’t share your password, and change it regularly (once every three months is usually recommended).
2. Take Advantage of Two-Step Verification
Even if a hacker steals your password, a two-step verification system can prevent them accessing your account. This system requires you to confirm your identity after you enter your password. It will usually send a randomly generated code via text message to a phone number that is already programmed in the system. Two-step verification systems are very easy to install and thwart the most common instances of cyberattacks.
3. Pay Attention to Physical Security as Well
It is easy to become exclusively focused on the technological aspect of cyber security, but you should also prevent risks associated with physical security. Make sure that areas like the server room have limited access by using secured locks. Set up security cameras so you know exactly who has been in your offices.
Passwords that are written down on paper should be securely stored and properly disposed of. Be careful about writing important information on whiteboards, and never leave sensitive documents out in the open.
4. Educate Your Staff
Your employees should understand the importance of cyber security as it relates to the well-being of the business. Take the time to meet with them and explain your business’s protocols. Tell your staff to implement practices such as avoiding potentially dangerous websites and suspicious emails. Continue encouraging good cyber security practices after the initial meeting. Make sure that everyone regularly changes their passwords and creates copies of important data.
It might even be worth considering having your team professionally trained. Courses such as the Alpine Security CISO training offer group classes that teach participants about safe cyber security practices. Armed with the right knowledge, your employees will be able to quickly identify any risks and address them appropriately.
5. Backup the Important Stuff
In the event of a breach, you will want to have backups of all your important files. This way you won’t lose any work and you can easily continue working.
6. Don’t Put-Off Updates
When prompted with an update notification, most users tend to click the “Later” option. If you want your business to be secured, however, it is a good idea to update software whenever the changes become available. Cloud software is usually automatically updated by its provider, but you should keep an eye out on updates for things like web browsers and operating systems. By having the latest versions of your software (especially security programs), you won’t have to worry about out-of-date or buggy applications that could compromise the privacy of your company.
By implementing these simple steps into your business’s cyber security protocol, you will have peace of mind and be able to focus on your business, not whether it will be compromised.
