A recent report by TekMonks found that it takes 191 days for a small business to realize when a data breach has happened. This is an alarmingly slow response in today’s digital world and it brings to light the importance of small businesses practicing better cybersecurity. As we head into the New Year, here are six ways to keep your business protected.
1. Secure Your Data
In today’s digital age, data is abundant, especially in businesses. Private data, such as credit card information, social security numbers, and more offer an easy gateway to people’s bank accounts and identity. It’s up to you, the business, to protect this data so hackers cannot have access to it. Talk to a managed IT services provider about keeping your data on secure servers, so you don’t put your customers at risk.
2. Be Cognizant of the Links You Click
Hackers are good at what they do. The emails they send are designed to look legitimate and aren’t always easy to identify. Be cautious about which links you click and who they’re from. If it looks suspicious, it probably is. Take the safe route out and contact the company if you’re ever in doubt of the legitimacy of a link or request.
3. Educate Your Team
Your employees login to your WiFi network from their devices. If they’re checking their personal email and click a malicious link, that malware is on your network and could spread to your business. It’s critical that you educate your team about being smart when checking email and clicking links at work, regardless of device.
4. Get an HTTPS Website
Encrypted websites start with HTTPS instead of HTTP. These websites make buyers trust businesses more and establish a sense of confidence. They also keep sensitive information private and out of the hands of cyber criminals. It’s easy and relatively inexpensive to get a secure website, so there’s really no reason not to have one for your small business when you consider all that’s at stake.
5. Update Your Security Software Regularly
These days, having anti-virus software, anti-spyware software, and automatically installing software updates is basic upkeep. Still, many business owners neglect their importance letting licenses lapse and updates go uninstalled. If that sounds like you, now is the time to do some cleanup work. Having these basic security measures is the first line of defense against letting hackers tap into your system.
6. Be Smarter About Your Passwords
The passwords you use, including the WiFi password you give to your clientele to login to your network, must be strong enough to keep outsiders at bay. Avoid using common passwords, such as 123456 or password1. Getting creative with your passwords can pay off in the long run.
Are You Protected?
Without practicing smart cybersecurity protections, you leave your business at risk. One hack could cause your business walls to come crumbling down. Protect yourself with these tips.
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