Although the internet is a good platform for your business, it poses an imminent threat to the security of your business. The risk of losing your data and getting scammed is very high if you do not secure your data appropriately.
Cybersecurity is applicable in all businesses: whether small or large. If you have a startup and don’t see the need to secure your business, reconsider your stance and place security measures. If you need help on how to go about this, contact IT professionals such as Commerx.
Meanwhile, consider the following security tips.
1. Use Passphrases
Instead of using regular passwords as security, consider using passphrases. These are passwords that are made up of different words or are phrases. It is hard for a robot to crack them. Ensure that the passphrase is long, complex, unique, and unpredictable.
2. Monitor Your Computer Systems and Equipment
Get someone or a system to record all the applicable software and computer equipment in your business. Also, educate your employees on the correct way of keeping their devices, the networks they should connect to and discourage them from using unauthorized hard drives and USB.
Also, safely discard any computer equipment that is not needed.
3. Use an Updated Firewall and Anti-Malware Software
Malware infection is a rampant tool that most hackers use to destroy data. Though you may have an existing anti-malware tool in your computer system, ensure that they stay updated. Set an automatic update so that your systems have the new version of the anti-malware when it’s available.
4. Turn on Spam Filters
Doing so reduces the amount of phishing and spam emails that your business receives. Hackers use these emails to infest your computer systems with viruses or malware and access your sensitive data. If you get any of these emails, delete them immediately. The spam filters reduce the chances of your workers accidentally opening these emails. Additionally, having DNS content filtering in place also helps.
5. Use Multi-Factor Authentication
With multi-factor authentication, the system requires you to provide more than one proof of identity to access sensitive data. For instance, if you want to log in to an account, the system will require a password and send a verification code to your mobile device before allowing you access. This authentication system keeps hackers and any unwarranted parties away from your accounts.
6. Encrypt and Back Up Your Data
Restrict access to your sensitive data and only allow authorized personnel to access it. Encrypt data such as employee and customer information in full-disk encryption software. Also, ensure that your computers get encrypted with a password.
Furthermore, back up all the sensitive business data and store the backup devices separately. Hackers can use ransomware to lock you out of your sensitive data. When this happens, you can quickly recover the data by restoring it from your backup devices
7. Enact Security Policies
Come up with a Cybersecurity policy to guide your employees. The policy should outline what they are allowed to do and what they should abstain from using emails, internet sites, computers, and data. Business data is susceptible and should get protected from unwarranted access. Follow the tips mentioned above to secure your data from hackers.