10 Ways To Avoid A Cyber Attack
We shall begin with the hope that this year is going to be great. Let’s not ponder on how difficult the past year was for all of us, instead let’s think about how we can build the economy back through our business. As we are sprucing up, we have to also think about protecting it from threats.
Can any company afford a cyber-attack right now?
Not to state the obvious, but no organization can afford a cyber-attack at this point.
Can it happen to me?
In the past few years, everything has been getting digitized. There are small businesses which are building themselves on the internet, implementing new technologies to have that edge. Every business big or small is vulnerable to cyberattacks. Generally, big organizations have a bigger budget to invest on building a thorough cybersecurity system. However, smaller businesses with a shoe-string budget sometimes feel that cyber thieves do not care to hack small businesses and that it is not required to invest in technologies to counter these threats. And they also think that. But hey, it is easy money, why will they not attack you?
This blog is going to walk you through some important points to keep in mind, while building the much-needed cyber net.
Employee training on cybersecurity attacks
Remote work is becoming the norm and without a proper cyber net, data breaches could happen. Having security practices such as strong passwords and timely updates of them alongside security policies in place are good to start with. Employees should be informed about these policies and penalties if they fail to comply. Make them aware of phishing attacks, spam, malware virus attacks, etc., so that they can guard themselves from it.
Upgrading operating systems
Not many people understand the importance of upgrading the operating system (OS). Having an outdated OS is like having a broken entrance to your house, a picnic spot for cyber attackers. Upgrading your OS will increase the general productivity, give better security cover, existing warranty, and better IT support.
Install a firewall security
A firewall is a device to monitor the incoming and outgoing network traffic. This will allow or block the transfer of data based on a certain set of predefined rules. If employees are working from home, secure their system with a proper firewall.
Secure the mobile devices
One of the most important plans toward data security is securing the mobile device, as it plays a vital role in data exchange. Design an action plan to safeguard the business data, without encroaching upon individual privacy.
Limiting employee, as well as vendor, access to valuable information
Prevention is better than cure. Preventing access to crucial information could control data leaks. Limit the access of both your employees as well as your vendors, by creating individual user accounts and ensure that each account should have access to limited information only.
Data backup
Take backups of all your files, documents, payments, bills, etc. either off-site or on the cloud. One can never predict when a malware attack could happen and wipe off all the information. This is also useful when you upgrade your system, where data backup is most required. We need not go scurry around at the last minute with such large data. Also, keep your backup encrypted.
Automatic screen blackout
People will take breaks in between working hours and to prevent misuse of the system during that time, it is better to have the auto-locking of the screen in place. Users will have to login each time with their passwords to get into their system. This will also prevent data thefts through individual systems.
Remove the data while disposing the system
When a system reaches the last stage of its life-cycle, which is to dispose of them, it is vital to remove all the data that was present in them such as payment details, customer information, etc. There are many ways to retrieve your precious data, even after formatting the system. Approach a dependable IT person to do this job securely. Also, remember to dispose of them in a responsible way to avoid e-waste.
Keep yourselves updated about current cybersecurity methods
Be updated about the current security attacks and counter methods to avoid any surprises. It is not just the responsibility of the IT team to secure the system, but the entire organization should be contributing to it. Educate your employees from time to time about the company policies by sending frequent communication mailers.
Install a robust cybersecurity system
Last but not the least, install a robust cybersecurity system which has all these factors in place. One need not go for individual software applications, instead, install a good security system and everything will be taken care of. There are many companies which are offering one-stop solutions to all your cyber-threat needs.
In the last few years, technology has given small businesses an equal opportunity to compete with big ones. Take a look and do the needful now. Ergo, strengthen your vulnerable areas and concentrate on expanding your business.
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