Cybersecurity Essentials for Your Business
Cyber attacks are on the rise and both small and large businesses are at risk. The best way to protect your business is to invest in cybersecurity practices. Spending time, money, and resources on cybersecurity may seem like a burden, but in the long run, this is an investment that will benefit your business greatly in the years to come.
What is cybersecurity?
In today’s world, the internet, and technology are an integral part of our everyday lives. Now that many of us are working remotely – businesses have shifted to online mediums. With the increased use of the internet and technology comes the huge risk of cyberattacks – especially for small businesses as they are considered “low hanging fruit”. The main goal of cybersecurity is to ensure a strong defense line against cyber attacks.
Common types of cybersecurity threats
- Phishing - the practice of sending fraudulent emails that resemble emails from reputable sources. The aim is to steal sensitive data like credit card numbers and login information. This is one of the most common attacks, especially against the general public.
- Ransomware – often looks like an email from an official source with an attachment. The attachment is designed to extort money by blocking access to files or the computer system until the ransom is paid.
- Malware - is a type of software such as computer viruses, spyware, Trojan horses, and keyloggers designed to gain unauthorized access or to cause damage to a computer.
- Social engineering - is a tactic that adversaries use to trick you into revealing sensitive information. They can solicit a monetary payment or gain access to your confidential data. (Link clicks, download malware, etc)
What companies can do to protect themselves
Businesses of any size can affordably protect themselves with enterprise-level security. Digital Connection Office Systems offers a range of Managed IT Solutions to help protect your data in addition to these steps:
Data Backups
Whether your data is stored locally on your computer or on the cloud, all businesses should regularly make backups of all important information. This includes word processing documents, electronic spreadsheets, databases, financial files, human resource files, and accounts receivable/payable files. Creating regular backups can ensure that all-important data can be restored at any time. You can even set up automated backups, so you never have to worry about it again.
Keep Your Software Up to Date
Keeping your software up to date is a crucial step in internet safety. Most software updates automatically but knowing how to keep your software updated can improve your computer's security and let you know about more features.
- Turn on automatic system updates for your device
- Make sure your desktop web browser uses automatic security updates
- Keep your web browser plugins like Flash, Java, etc. updated
Use Anti-Virus Protection & Firewall
One of the first lines of defense is using a reputable and trustworthy Anti-virus (AV) protection software. AV is very efficient and will catch most of the malware attacks and other malicious viruses from entering your device and compromising your data. It is important to note that malware is constantly advancing at rapid rates, so sometimes the software is unable to detect it, so it is important to use other cybersecurity measures.
Using a firewall is also important when trying to prevent cyber attacks. A Firewall can help screen out hackers, viruses, and other malicious activity that occurs over the Internet and determine what traffic can enter your device. It is also important that employees working from home install a firewall on their home network as well.
Use Two-Factor or Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is very important for modern business. If employees are using weak passwords, attackers are more likely to hack their accounts. MFA provides an extra layer of security by asking for multiple types of information to identify the user before logging in.
Types of MFA
- Facial recognition, fingerprint, or eye scans
- PINS, OTP, and software certifications.
Educate Your Staff
Train your employees how to recognize and respond to a cyber attack. Come up with a plan to alert your administrator to any suspicious emails or unusual activity – even if it turns out to be a false alarm.
We offer many different IT package solutions built to meet your business needs. Reach out today for more information and how Digital Connection can help prevent cyber attacks in your business.
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