As technology advances, new cybersecurity issues keep emerging. Digitalization has seen many businesses embrace new technological innovations to boost productivity. Alternatively, cybercriminals are continually developing new and sophisticated methods to gain access to confidential data, hence the need for companies to rethink their framework.
The Verizon 2019 Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR) found that 43% of cyber attacks target small businesses. Finding and implementing the security measures can make or break a business, as the financial and reputational consequences of cyberattacks are huge and long-term.
In addition to the costs of restoring your systems, businesses may face lawsuits from clients for exposing confidential data, and the fines might be hefty. Here are six cybersecurity tips that will help you secure your information and keep you far from those fines.
1. Provide Employee Security Training
When an employee opens an infected link or an attachment, otherwise known as a phishing message, they expose your system to ransomware and viruses resulting in you losing sensitive data. Phishing scams are the most prevalent form of cyber attacks, but regular training on the company’s security policies will help your employees avoid creating vulnerabilities in your system.
Educating your employees to hold off on opening unknown files, links, and attachments and not give out confidential information to unauthorized persons is a great way to protect your information.
2. Use Advanced Firewalls
Firewalls are gateways to your network system. They monitor and control the outgoing and incoming traffic to ensure no malicious software infiltrates your private network. Installing strong firewalls will help you secure your applications and cloud network from cyber attacks.
3. Implement Managed Threat Detection
As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Most managed service providers offer a managed cybersecurity service that detects the intrusion of malware and other malicious activities in your system and responds rapidly to eliminate them. Round-the-clock monitoring of your system helps you mitigate the disruptions or losses that may arise from a cyber attack.
4. Perform Regular Software Updates
Your software requires regular updates to eliminate loopholes and weak points which hackers can use to manipulate your data. Always ensure your system is up to date on the latest operating system, servers, network security, anti-malware software, and firewalls.
It is important to note that some software like Wi-Fi router firmware, unlike other applications, requires manual updates, but generally, software updates can be rolled out automatically through your provider as part of your managed IT services package.
5. Use Strong Passwords
Hackers can crack an easy password with very little effort. Ensure your employees use strong passwords and update them regularly, resisting the urge of recycling old passwords. You may also consider implementing a password management policy to prohibit sharing and recycling passwords among your employees.
Strong password combinations involve:
- At least eight characters (the longer the better)
- Symbols (such as $, %, &, or @)
- A mix of lowercase and capitalized letters
- No ties to your personal information
Creating and remembering strong, unique passwords becomes challenging, you can use a password management system to help generate strong passwords for you.
6. Work with a Professional IT Company
Managing cybersecurity issues requires a comprehensive security plan. Since cybersecurity keeps evolving with technological advances, it may be challenging for you to keep up with the latest security trends. Working with a reputable IT company will give you access to advanced security tools, expert help, and round-the-clock support as part of its dedicated cybersecurity services.
Fusion Technology Solutions is the ideal partner for small business cybersecurity. With all the complex cybersecurity issues handled, we can give you peace of mind that your information is secure and you can focus on growing your business. Contact us today for a free consultation, and we’ll discuss how we can take care of all your cybersecurity needs.