As a start-up, one of the most important services you will need is business IT support, with a help desk, data recovery services, and technical support. Your business IT support provider can also ensure your systems are set up to prevent cyber-attacks.
It’s not only large businesses that are the target of hackers. As a small business owner, you need to be aware that the effects of a cyber-attack can be devastating and that you need to take precautions. In most cases, the security of your personal or business information is most under threat and most likely to be compromised.
Attacks vary in the form they take and the motives behind them. Cybercriminals may launch an attack to bring down networks and infrastructure, steal information or simply to prove a point.
A cybersecurity expert can advise you on securing your computers using software and hardware solutions, while a security expert can ensure your servers and storage devices are kept secure in their physical locations.
Any hazards to your business data and information an easily be prevented if you follow a set of best practices. Some security measures you should apply against the threat of online security breaches are:
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Protect your password
Never share your password for a device used for business purposes. Periodically change your passwords to keep your devices safe from hackers. For maximum protection use at least fifteen characters long password with a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters (capital letter) to strengthen your passwords.
Be sure to back up everything
Back up all your data regularly to protect against, not just hackers, but natural disasters, theft, technical faults, and device failures. Make copies of all crucial data and protect the copies from intruders. Not all information theft is carried out by hi-tech means, so don’t let important information simply walk out the door on a USB stick or compact disc!
Educate all employees
Your employees need to be aware of security issues also. Conduct a training session with them on the importance of information security and how security threats such as phishing and social engineering can be prevented. Make sure everyone is aware of the risks and stays on the alert.
Install anti-virus software
Do not use free anti-virus software for business purposes. It comes with no guarantee and is seldom or never updated to catch the latest viruses and malware. Have your business IT support service to install the best enterprise antivirus software available. Ensure that it automatically updates to prevent your business from being attacked by the latest threats.
Make sure you have a secure internet connection
Public and free Wi-Fi internet access are commonly found everywhere from cafes to airports these days. If you are using a device with critical information such as your credit card information or business data do not connect it to a public Wi-Fi network. Only use a secure connection that is set up with a username and password, so that only authorized users can enter the system. This way, any discrepancies can be traced back.
Lock your computer system
Be vigilant when it comes to computer security. Lock your computer system when you are out of the office just as you do your home, car, and office when leaving them.
If you need any further help with security advice, data recovery or technical support, ask your business IT support provider for advice and call their help desk immediately if you think your business may be the target of a cyber-attack.
