10 Cybersecurity Tips for Small Business
Modern technology can be used as a powerful factor in helping small businesses reaching new markets and increasing productivity and efficiency. However, businesses must have a smart cybersecurity strategy to protect their business, their customers, and their data from growing cybersecurity threats. As a business owner it is important to pay close attention to these cybersecurity tips.
1. Train employees in security principles
Establish basic security practices and policies for employees, such as requiring strong passwords, and establish appropriate Internet use guidelines that detail penalties for violating company cybersecurity policies. Establish rules of behavior describing how to handle and protect customer information and other vital data. Ideally, every employee should undergo regular Cybersecurity Awareness Training on a regular basis.
2. Protect information, computers, and networks from cyber attacks
Keep your machines clean and up-to-date: having the latest security software, web browser, and operating system are the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats. Set antivirus software to run a scan after each update. Install other key software updates as soon as they are available. Utilizing a proactive patch management solution is one of the most important things a small business can do to ensure having good security.
3. Provide firewall security for your Internet connection
A firewall is a piece of hardware or software which prevents outsiders from accessing data on your private business network. Make sure the operating system’s firewall is enabled, install firewall software, or purchase a firewall appliance. If employees work from home, ensure that their home system(s) are protected by a firewall at all times.
4. Create a mobile device action plan
Mobile devices can create significant security and management challenges, especially if they hold confidential information or can access the corporate network. Require users to password-protect their devices, encrypt their data, and install security apps to prevent criminals from stealing information while the phone is on public networks. Be sure to set reporting procedures for lost or stolen equipment.
5. Make backup copies of important business data and information
Backup company data on all computers on a regular basis. Critical data includes word processing documents, electronic spreadsheets, databases, financial files, human resources files, and accounts receivable/payable files. Data should be backup automatically each and every night and stored both locally and in the cloud. Having proper backups is one of the most important things you as a small business owner must ensure.
6. Control physical access to your computers and create user accounts for each employee
Prevent access or use of business computers by unauthorized individuals. Laptops can be particularly easy targets for theft or can be lost, so lock them up when unattended. Make sure a separate user account is created for each employee and require strong passwords. Administrative privileges should only be given to trusted IT staff and key personnel.
7. Secure your Wi-Fi networks
If you have a Wi-Fi network for your workplace, ensure that it is secure, encrypted, and hidden. To hide your Wi-Fi network, set up your wireless access point or router, so it does not broadcast the network name, known as the Service Set Identifier (SSID). Make sure to password protect access to the router.
8. Employ best practices on payment cards
Work with banks or processors to ensure the most trusted and validated tools and anti-fraud services are being used. You may also have additional security obligations pursuant to agreements with your bank or processor. Isolate payment systems from other, less secure programs and don’t use the same computer to process payments and surf the Internet.
9. Limit employee access to data and information, limit authority to install software
Do not provide any one employee with access to all data systems. Employees should only be given access to the specific data systems that they need for their jobs, and should not be able to install any software without permission.
10. Passwords and authentication
Require employees to use unique passwords and change passwords every three months. It is also critical to implement multi-factor authentication that requires additional information beyond a password to gain entry. Check with your vendors that handle sensitive data, especially financial institutions, to see if they offer multi-factor authentication for your account.
Strong, multi-layered cybersecurity protection is critical to all businesses no matter their size. These cybersecurity tips will get you started, but you can never let your guard down. Ideally it is best to outsource your business cybersecurity protection to a local managed service provider who specializes in cybersecurity protection.
Explore Your Options for a Secure & More Reliable Network
Managed IT Professionals can help your business set up and manage multiple layers of advanced cybersecurity protection ensuring safe and reliable network operation. We can help you fully optimize your cybersecurity with top level next-generation protection throughout your office, warehouse, retail store, etc. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation! Call (201) 300-3825, contact us, or schedule a free consultation.
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