t doesn’t matter if you run a small or medium business; cyber security concerns are not only for large corporations. The next time you think you don’t need to worry about hackers and cyber breaches, keep this data in mind:
- 40% of the small businesses that were victims of Cyber-attacks had to close down.*
- It cost an average of $10k per day per disaster.*
- 60% of the customers of small businesses have switched their vendors after cyber attack.*
*Source: Symantec study of 2012
Implementing 12 easy steps can prevent your business from being victim of cyber-attacks. Let’s explain how can you actively approach this issue:
- Download and install upgrade security software as they become available: Hackers are more sophisticated every day. It is necessary that you upgrade your software systems up to date, so your data is as secure as possible.
- Make backup copies every day: In case of data lost, a backup copy will help you restore your business in a rapid way.
- Control physical access: Your data cannot only be available online, information can also be stolen from physical structures. Therefore, the fewer people have access to the physical server, the better to protect your data.
- Require individual account for each employee: ask your employees to follow business security standards. Using individual accounts will help you track the data accessed by each employee.
- Limit authority to change: Limiting your employees’ accessibility will help you not only to avoid data breaches, but also to lose information due to inappropriate data management. Give access to those employees who really need to.
- Regularly change password: I’m sure you have heard this advice many times. This is one of oldest and most effective ways to protect your data.
- Make it part of “Business Plan;” and review it once a year: Cyber security must be a priority for your business. Make sure to discuss the strategy at least once per year with your management team, and assign resources to keep your business safe.
- Having Cyber security plan is very important: What is your action plan? You don’t need to wait to be in this position to have one.
- Make it part of regular meetings: The success of your cyber security strategy relies on your employees as well. Bring the subject to the team meetings, and create awareness among your employees.
- How do you dispose off old computer and smart phone? This question is very self-explanatory, and every business owner needs to be aware of this possible breach.
- Mobile Technology (230% increase in mobile malware): In today’s business world, handling mobile devices is necessary. Hackers know about that, and take advantage of these vulnerabilities. If you handle sensitive data on your mobile devices, be sure to have good security software.
- Proper use of public WiFi: Use a secure VPN in public WiFi hotspots, and try to avoid introducing sensitive information while you are connected.