Modern businesses rely on multiple systems, including computers, servers, networks, and other electronic setups, for successful operations. These critical systems are essential to ensure safety, accomplish specific business processes, and run the entire business successfully.
Technology is empowering, as it allows your business to provide extraordinary customer experiences, expand your capabilities, and grow faster. But without proper safety checks, technology can make your business vulnerable to cyber attacks.
Businesses are privy to sensitive information, such as customer data, business financial details, supplier/distributor information, employee details, and other crucial business-related data. The responsibility of protecting such data infrastructure and critical systems from cyber attacks is crucial because a single attack can bring the entire data infrastructure and business down.
For best results, cybersecurity should be part of your overall business strategy planning. Many businesses partner with companies specializing in Internet security to achieve cybersecurity efficiency.
So what can you do to ensure that your business builds a better security shield against cyber attacks? Here are six best practices to consider.
Maintain a Security Policy
Ensure that you have proper security policies in place. These policies should specify basic security requirements, such as using strong passwords, Internet usage rules, and the consequences of any violation.
The security policies must also specify guidelines for safeguarding customer data and vital business information. It must also elaborate on the following:
- Data access authorizations and controls
- Limits on access to employee information
- Procedure for detecting an internal/external threat
- Process for handling the threat
- Details of legal actions and other consequences for policy violation
All your employees must be aware of your security policy and the consequences of any violation—train employees in security procedures. You can also educate them about cybersecurity basics, such as the hazards of visiting unsecured websites and networks and sharing passwords and confidential information.
Invest in Robust Cybersecurity Technologies
Start with reliable antivirus software for all your business devices, including those offsite. Antivirus programs must be efficient enough to detect even silent virus attacks, such as ransomware, which work in the background and are often undetectable. Only a well-developed antivirus system can detect such threats.
It is also crucial to keep your antivirus program up-to-date, as these updates are developed in response to evolving cyberthreats. Run your software as soon as you see update notifications for utmost protection.
If you use wireless devices and networks, then use router safety practices, such as password protection and advanced encryption. Hide your wireless access point so your network name is not visible to others.
Set up email and web filters to isolate suspicious emails and websites. Filtering technologies can help you detect attacks early and thwart them. In addition, consider using blacklisting services to prevent employees from browsing risky websites.
It’s also important to secure your hardware physically with regular monitoring. The simple act of tethering computers to desks with manufacturer-provided cables can prevent physical theft and the loss of sensitive data.
Lastly, secure your equipment by installing device location software. In case of theft, this software can help the authorities locate your device quickly.
Use Encryption Technologies for Maximum Protection
Encryption ensures that your sensitive data remains protected should it fall into the wrong hands. It is one of the most efficient methods to protect your sensitive information. For instance, operating systems (OSs) usually come with full-disk encryption technology, which encrypts all data on a device.
Use full-disk encryption on all your devices and encrypt all sensitive data, including customer, employee, and business information. Ensure that the encryption software is regularly updated.
Perform Data Backup
Hackers can steal your sensitive data, encrypt the information, and hold it hostage for ransom. With an excellent data backup plan, you can secure your business from cybersecurity threats. Make sure to store your backup data separately.
Dispose of Hardware Properly
If you are disposing of your old office equipment, ensure that all the data in the devices have been erased. Destroy the system or hire a company that can do it for you. Use an efficient shredder or incinerator to get rid of paper documents with sensitive information.
Hire Professionals
An expert’s guidance always helps. You can minimize your cybersecurity risks with the expertise of an online security company. A professional cybersecurity firm identifies the cyber risks your business is vulnerable to and the extent of the impact, financial and otherwise, to the company.
These companies can develop a security strategy customized for your business, including the cybersecurity insurance your business would best benefit from.
Loading ...
