Your business is always at risk when you’re not prepared for a cyber attack. Hackers can easily steal your company’s customer data, vendor details, employee information, and money. A data breach can lead to damaged relationships with your suppliers, customers, and even employees.
In fact, research has shown that half of the small companies that experience a cyber attack actually go out of business in just six months. It’s alarming, but small businesses are often targeted by hackers. They are more appealing to cybercriminals because they have a moderate amount of data and a low level of security.
The bottom line is, any information these companies have can be stolen by hackers, who will then use the stolen data to steal again from many others. That’s why it’s imperative you build your cybersecurity regardless of your business size.
By learning how to properly handle cybersecurity basics, it will be much easier for you to prepare your business for a potential attack.
Below are 5 tips to strengthen the cybersecurity of your business.
1. Use a Password Manager
It’s easy to create complex passwords but remembering all of them can be difficult. You’ll need a password manager tool like Sticky Password, Dashlane, or LastPass to keep track of everything. These tools allow you to use unique and secure passwords for each site you need while keeping track of everything for you.
With a password manager, you get the security benefits of constantly changing your password, without ever having to worry about making tasks more difficult for your employees.
2. Update Your Computers
All devices must be regularly updated, from desktop computers, laptops, and mobile devices. Ensure that all web browsers and operating systems are up to date so you are protected against any new threats.
Remember that any application or software on your systems – including your security software will need updating. It’s often as simple as going online and checking if there are new versions of the software you use.
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3. Use Current Antivirus and Antimalware Software
Professional-grade antimalware and antivirus software are a must for every business. Check the devices used in your business and see if they have the latest de-bugged operating system and software versions. If you see any available upgraded version, install them ASAP.
4. Install a Business-class Firewall
In addition to the router provided by your ISP, you will need to install a firewall to manage the traffic you allow into your network. You also need it to check which websites employees visit using your network, preventing them from accidentally using websites that have been compromised.
5. Train Employees to Identify Phishing and Spear Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks are typically more generalized compared to spear phishing, which is personalized to the specific target. These attacks can often be very convincing, so you need to train members of your organization in how to spot these attacks. They need to learn how to spot phishing attempts and what details they should look out for in order to be prepared.
These 5 tips are the minimum measures to take for better cybersecurity. Put them in place and then, if you’re still unsure about whether your network is secure enough, talk to a trusted IT consultant who can provide an assessment and recommendations to lessen the risk of cyber security threats.
