Cybersecurity: Keeping Your Business Safe Online

As we progress toward becoming a more technology-based society every year, we are witnessing an equally proportionate rise in the number of cyber thefts and hacking attacks that take place. Whether its a phishing e-mail that somehow dodges your spam folder, or it’s a data breach within a business, cybercrime is on the rise. 

Although large businesses provide more lucrative data for hackers to steal, SME’s are frequent targets for cybercriminals. Smaller organizations are less likely to have comprehensive security systems in place, making them much more vulnerable to an attack. 

Cybercrime is evolving with technology. Hackers are coming up with more elaborate methods and convincing scams to access your information. As e-commerce, cloud storage, and automation become more common in the workplace, it’s vital for businesses to prioritize cybersecurity. 

One data breach can be devastating for a business. Modern organizations store valuable information regarding their customers, meaning the impact of a cyber attack can go far beyond an individual company.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to keep your cybersecurity high and to minimize the risk of a serious breach. Here are five essential ways to keep your business safe from an online attack.

Such breaches erode trust and can lead to significant financial losses, legal ramifications, and damage to reputation. Moreover, the interconnected nature of digital ecosystems means that the ripple effects of a breach can extend to partners, suppliers, and even the broader economy, amplifying the need for robust cybersecurity measures across industries.

Additionally, staying aware of the different web scraping regulations can help you understand what to do in case of a data breach. However, prevention is better than cure, so understanding the different types of data breaches and staying aware can help you protect your assets.

Fortunately, there are plenty of waysto keep your cybersecurity high and to minimize the risk of a serious breach. Here are five essential ways to keep your business safe from an online attack.

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1. Create a strong firewall

A firewall is the first line of defense for your business network. It monitors all traffic to, from, and within the network, and is able to detect and block any suspicious and unwanted traffic. While a firewall can’t prevent cyber attacks from every source, it works effectively in keeping external threats from gaining direct access to your network. 

Client and appliance firewalls serve different purposes and depending on your business, either may be more suitable. For companies that have a large internal network, both might be recommended.

2. Password and log-in management

Although this might seem basic, an alarming number of businesses and their employees don’t practice safe password management. Simple passwords are frequently accessed by hackers. Cybercriminals also have ways to steal password information. 

Unique and strong passwords should be used for all business log-ins. Encourage employees to use a separate business password from their personal log-ins. It’s also recommended to change your passwords three to four times per year.

3. Use multifactor authentication

Multifactor authentication involves providing extra information when logging into an account, application, or network. After inputting your username and password, the user is prompted to give further verification to log-in. This can be additional questions, fingerprint authentication, other unique information.

4. Managed I.T. services

Don’t take any chances when it comes to cybersecurity. Company and customer information is too valuable to leave exposed to a data breach. 

By hiring a managed I.T. service, you ensure that your business is getting expert cybersecurity services across all areas. Industry professionals can look out for your best interests from a digital security perspective. This gives you peace of mind and allows you to concentrate on the core aspects of your business.

Research solutions online to learn more about hiring managed I.T. services.

5. Keep staff informed

You can have all the latest cybersecurity technology in place, but one wrong move by a member of staff can expose your business network to a potential threat. Ensure that you have cybersecurity policies and procedures in place and that you inform staff of the dos and don’ts.