Spend less time on down time, more time on your business
The
last three decades have marked a huge increase in the number of business
computers. Due to the growth of technology new methods have been
developed for processing everyday business activities easily. Without this
technology, routine tasks would have taken an enormous amount of time and
specialization.
The Internet allows businesses of all sizes and
from any location to reach new and larger markets and provides opportunities
to work more efficiently by using computer-based tools. Whether a company is
thinking of adopting cloud computing or just using email and maintaining a
website, cybersecurity should be a part of the plan.
Properly managing information technology may be a
priority for businesses in general. But what happens when you are a small
business owner with little or no IT staff.
With tight budgets, small business owners face challenges in how to stay up
to date with the latest innovations in technology, much less keeping
computer files safe from hacking and malware. For some, it might seem an
insurmountable task. However, there are best practices that even the
smallest business can follow.
Important Security Tips for Small Businesses
• Train Employees in security policies
Employees often do many jobs making it essential that all employees
accessing the network be trained on your company’s network cyber security
best practices and security policies. Since the policies are evolving
as cybercriminals become smarter, it’s important to have regular updates on
new protocols. Establish basic security procedures and policies for
employees, such as requiring strong passwords, and establish appropriate
Internet use guidelines that detail penalties for violating company
cybersecurity policies. Establish policies which describe how to handle and
protect customer information and other vital data.
• Make backup copies of important business data
While it’s important to prevent as many attacks as possible, it is
still possible to be breached regardless of your precautions. Regularly
backup critical data on all computers. Critical data includes word
processing documents, electronic spreadsheets, databases, financial files,
human resources files, and accounts receivable/payable files. Backup data
automatically if possible, or at least weekly and store the copies either
offsite or in the cloud or both. To ensure that you will have the latest
backup if you ever need it, check your backup regularly to ensure that it is
functioning correctly.
• Provide firewall security for your internet connection
One of the first lines of defense in a cyberattack is a firewall. A
firewall is a set of related programs that prevent outsiders from accessing
data on a private network. Make sure the operating system's firewall is
enabled or install firewall software available online. If employees work
from home, ensure that their home system is protected by a firewall.
• Enforce safe password practices
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It’s easy to assume that your employees know to never open phishing
emails. However, one leading report estimated that 30 percent of employees
opened phishing emails, a 7 percent increase from 2018. Since phishing
attacks involve installing malware on the employee’s computer when the link
is clicked, it’s essential to have anti-malware software installed on all
devices and the network.
• Use multifactor identification
Regardless of your preparation, an employee will likely make a
security mistake that can compromise your data. Using the multi-factor
identification settings on most major network and email products is simple
to do and provides an extra layer of protection. Using employees’ cell
numbers as a second form, since it is unlikely a thief will have both the
PIN and the password.
• Limit employee access to data and information, limit authority to install software
Do not provide any one employee with access to all data systems.
Employees should only be given access to the specific data systems that they
need for their jobs, and should not be able to install any software without
permission.
Contact our office if you have questions or want more information on
these and other strategies that could reduce your .........