We live in a technologically advanced world, where technology paves the way by solving a plethora of problems. Over the years, technology is reshaping the world with new tools and multi-functional devices to improve daily life. Not just that, but many businesses are thriving on technology at an exponential rate.
However, technology is also a double-edged sword that holds risks along with benefits. Be it the cloud technology, server systems, or emails. Every business adopts technology to streamline its operations. Along with digital transformation, cybersecurity should be a priority of every business.
Along with technological innovations, cybercrimes are also on the rise. Regardless of the business size, cybercrimes are growing at a rate that cyber-attacks are becoming inevitable. Especially during the pandemic, where every business is shifting operations online, the vulnerable companies are at significant risk.
Small businesses are more susceptible to cyber-attacks because of the “not much to steal mindset.” However, this mindset is grim and poses a significant threat because of its severity. Small to medium-sized businesses are the primary target of data thieves because they are more likely to fall into their trap. Both small to large companies must impose essential security protocols to keep a safe side from cyber-attacks.
With that said, let’s discuss seven essential security measures to protect small businesses.
1. Educate all Employees
One of the prime approaches to secure your small business from cyber threats is educating them about hackers. As discussed earlier, hackers are always looking at ways to exploit small businesses, making the cyber-attacks inevitable. Training employees for security practices can help you mitigate the risks of cyber-attacks. These practices can include setting up strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and internet usage guidelines.
Large businesses always get media attention during security breaches. Moreover, these businesses can quickly recover from these cyber-attacks because of the network layers and security measures. Many companies consider cybersecurity professionals for devising secure networks.
On the other side, small businesses have fewer resources for network security. However, training the employees for security measures can assist by setting up the primary defenses against attacks. For that instance, you can also earn a cyber security online degree to learn the technical foundations of securing your small business. With the hackers becoming savvier, earning the education will enable you to set up the essential policies for employees in your firm.
2. Back up Your Data
Cyber-attacks can occur anytime. These attacks leave a devastating impact on businesses. Last year, cyber-attacks led to an average loss of $200,000. They put 60 percent of companies out of business within six months of the attacks. However, 97% of the cyber-attacks are preventable with the right security protocols in place. Setting up a data backup system is one of these protocols that can save your small business from cyber-attacks.
Data breaches and attacks are becoming an everyday cybercriminal activity around the world. Unfortunately, small businesses always suffer the most because of vulnerability. In this case, investing in the data backup system is essential to ensure your valuable files’ safety.
The backup system is not much costly and can be set up quickly. You will be required to set up the quarterly or yearly data backup plan for the cloud storage. Also, do not forget to back up server data, like client information, mobile devices, employee data, etc.
3. Updating Your System
Ignoring to update the system is one step ahead for the hackers to exploit your system. Updating the security software will ensure safety from significant cybersecurity threats. As discussed earlier, hackers are continually evolving to find a leak to get their hands on the small business network.
Similarly, security professionals are also striving to update the security systems to fix the leaks and prevent cybercriminals from attacking the systems. It is suggested to update your software systems regularly to save the business from devastating consequences.
4. Use a Firewall
Setting numerous security protocols will assist your small business with enhanced protection from cybercriminals. A network firewall is another security protocol to protect your small business.
Establishing a firewall will prevent hackers from breaching the business network. Since most companies are encouraging their employees to work from home, they should also help them install a firewall on their home network.
5. Use Multifactor Authentication
Cybercriminals work tirelessly for approaches to breach the security defenses. The smallest flaw in the system can lead to huge losses because of the security breach. Your employees can also make the mistake of falling prey, which can later bring the whole business to the ground.
Small companies must train employees to use multifactor authentication rather than just strong passwords. The multifactor authentication adds an extra layer of security. Apart from the passwords, cybercriminals will require a PIN generated on the cell phone number, making it difficult for hackers to steal both passwords and PIN.
6. Encrypt Important Information
Apart from multifactor authentication, you might also want to encrypt important information. The data encryption will make your data useless during data breaches, thus securing the information. Moreover, many network router supports the network encryption for securing the sending and receiving information. Investing in these encryption tools can significantly reduce the chance of identity theft and phishing attacks.
7. Use a Virtual Private Network
Virtual Private Networks are readily available software that use encryption technology to secure all the data transmitted from your device. Using this software will ease securing the employee’s system with secure encryption in the traffic.
Final Words
On one side, where online presence is crucial, it is also a dangerous place for businesses. Not just corporations, but even individuals are not safe from these threats. However, incorporating these security protocols can save you a lot of hassle and cost from risky cyber-attacks.
