The landscape of data security is constantly under siege by malicious entities seeking to extract sensitive information and disrupt operations. Data compiled by Statista for the year 2019 highlights that the U.S. was hit by 1,473 data breaches, with a staggering figure of over 164.68 million sensitive records becoming vulnerable.
Growing awareness around the issues of cyber threats has led to a more guarded approach by individuals and companies. Precautionary actions are a step forward in safeguarding data and devices. However, the perpetrators of these cyber threats are not resting on their laurels; they have responded by advancing their tactics both in number and in the intricacy of their attacks. To protect personal and business information, you need to constantly develop and train your employees in precautionary measures, as well as protection against various threats.
Cybersecurity Tips for Businesses
1 Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is quickly turning into an essential element of cybersecurity. This robust security measure requires not just a password or PIN but also additional forms of verification. Users must prove their identity through several credentials that often include having access to specific digital devices or accounts, as well as passing advanced biometric checks like facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or retina scans, ensuring a higher level of protection.
2 Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
Utilizing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) lets staff members securely tap into the corporate network from the comfort of their homes or while on the move. This step becomes indispensable since team members typically rely on the internet to connect to work resources, which inherently lacks the robust security of an in-house enterprise network.
By integrating VPNs into your security architecture, you can significantly reduce the impact of cyber threats. If you use an encrypted VPN, you can protect yourself from any threats aimed at stealing your data. Why are we so sure? You should find out what encryption is. If we are talking about AES-256 encryption, like VeePN, then breaking the cipher is almost impossible, at least certainly unprofitable.
3 Perform a Cybersecurity Audit
Begin by assessing the current cybersecurity posture of your company. Ask yourself, is your enterprise adequately safeguarded against digital threats? Could it be that certain aspects of your security are solid while others fall short? Identifying the strengths and weaknesses in your security measures is crucial for recognizing areas for enhancement.
Heather Paunet, the Senior Vice President of Product and Marketing at Untangle — a provider of network security for small businesses — suggests, “Although implementing the majority of cybersecurity safeguards for a small business extends beyond a mere sixty minutes, dedicating an hour for a preliminary evaluation of your existing cybersecurity strategies is a judicious investment.”
4 Conduct Trainings
The overwhelming majority of malicious software invasions—a staggering 90%—originate from deceptive phishing tactics. Furthermore, almost half of cyber security breaches are attributed to employee oversight. A critical step in mitigating hacking risks is to ensure comprehensive IT literacy among all staff members.
Revamping your small business’s IT security starts with empowering your team. Kick-off with a tailored cyber security awareness initiative that teaches your employees to sidestep the usual blunders leading to security breaches.
Core topics cover the ins and outs of phishing, securing mobile gadgets, crafting strong passwords, and outsmarting social engineering ploys.
Enlist a Managed IT Support Services Provider to roll out periodic learning modules, keeping your workforce current on the shifting cybersecurity landscape. Delve into our comprehensive manual on constructing a robust cyber security awareness curriculum for your company.
5 Update and Backup Regularly
Maintaining the security of your business is paramount, and while regularly updating your operating system and anti-virus programs might seem straightforward, it’s surprising how many businesses neglect this critical step. Don’t wait—upgrade to the latest versions as soon as they hit the market. You can also use free VPN Edge, which updates automatically. Overall, auto-update allows you to avoid various cyber threats before you even know about them.
Cybersecurity specialists who cater to small businesses urge owners to back up their data weekly, though some suggest doing it daily. The ideal backup frequency truly depends on the pace at which you gather crucial information for your operations. Leveraging cloud services is a smart way to store your backups—just be mindful to keep passwords and sensitive financial information out. Additionally, it’s wise to periodically save vital data to an external drive that remains offline, offering an extra layer of protection.
6 Protecting Personal Identifiable Information (PII)
Personal Identifiable Information, commonly referred to as PII, encompasses a range of data that cybercriminals can exploit to pinpoint your physical whereabouts or ascertain your identity.
This sensitive information extends beyond mere names and addresses. It covers a spectrum of identifiers including, but not limited to, contact numbers, birthdates, Social Security Numbers, IP addresses, and specific location data.
Access to PII may be unlawfully obtained through tactics such as phishing schemes, unauthorized access to both personal and professional accounts, or even by sifting through a company’s trash for negligent data disposal.
Considering the risks, it’s critical to educate your workforce on the potential consequences of inadvertently disclosing PII. Comprehensive internet security awareness is an essential shield against such breaches.
Conclusion
Safeguarding your enterprise against the rising tide of cyber threats should be a top priority on your agenda. As an entrepreneur, the onus is on you to forge a secure environment for your company and its employees.
The prospect of bolstering your cyber defenses may appear daunting; however, there are straightforward measures you can implement that will significantly lower the risk of a security incursion.
