How to Protect Your Business from Cybersecurity Threats
- Keep your software up to date. Out-of-date software is one of the most common ways businesses become vulnerable to cyberattacks. Make sure all the software on your computers and devices is up to date, including the operating system, browser, and any apps you use.
- Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication. Strong passwords are essential for keeping your business safe from cybercriminals. Use a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols in your passwords, and consider using a password manager to help you keep track of them. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to enter a code from your smartphone or another device in addition to your password when logging into an account.
- Educate your employees. Your employees are one of your biggest assets when it comes to cybersecurity. Make sure they know how to spot phishing emails and other scams, and that they understand the importance of keeping their passwords secure. You should also have policies in place for what to do in the event of a data breach or other security incident.
- Back up your data. In the event of a ransomware attack or other data loss, having a recent backup can help you get your business up and running again quickly. Back up your data to an external hard drive or cloud storage service on a regular basis.
- Use security tools. There are a number of security tools available to help protect your business from cyberattacks. These include firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection and prevention systems. Make sure you have the appropriate tools in place for your business, and that they are kept up to date.
- Monitor your network. Regularly monitoring your network for unusual activity can help you spot potential security threats. Use a network monitoring tool to keep track of the devices and traffic on your network, and look for anything out of the ordinary.
- Keep your information private. Be careful about what information you share online, and with whom. Don’t post sensitive information such as credit card numbers or social security numbers on your website or social media accounts. And be sure to encrypt any sensitive data you do need to store electronically.
- Disconnect from public Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecure, so it’s best to avoid using them for anything sensitive, such as online banking or shopping. If you must use public Wi-Fi, be sure to use a VPN to encrypt your traffic and protect your information.
- Be prepared for an incident. Despite your best efforts, there’s always a chance your business could be the target of a cyberattack. Be sure to have a plan in place for what to do in the event of an incident, including how to contact your employees and customers, and how to restore your data.
- Stay up to date on security threats. Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay up to date on the latest threats and how to protect against them. Subscribe to security newsletters and follow security experts on social media to stay informed.
