In the last two years, ransomware attacks have increased dramatically. As a result, you need a small business cyber security plan more than ever for your company and your customers. Small businesses are attacked more than larger companies for many reasons, but mainly because they have poor or no cyber security at all.
60% of small companies go out of business after being hacked. That statistic should scare you enough to realize that you need to invest in a small business cyber security plan.
7 Components of a Small Business Cyber Security Plan
A combination of security practices increases protection for your business.
1. Use Strong Passwords and 2-Factor Authentication
Weak passwords leave your data vulnerable. Use a different password for each program and change them every three months. Passwords should be unique, not something someone could easily guess. Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
A two-factor authentication (2FA) is a valuable tool for protecting your passwords and data. Also, consider creating separate user accounts for each employee and limiting administrative privileges.
2. Control Employee Access to Data
If an employee’s account is compromised, all company data is instantly at risk. Limit employee access to what they need to do their job and prevent anyone from installing software without permission.
3. Protect Data on Mobile Devices
People often access company data from their mobile devices without thinking about security issues. Make it mandatory for mobile devices to be password protected, encrypted, and up to date. If a device is lost or stolen, it should be reported right away.
4. Secure Home Office Networks
Many recent cyber-attacks resulted from remote workers using an unsecured personal home network to access company information. Therefore, employees who work from home should protect their systems with a firewall and malware scanners.
5. Back up Company Data
Back up all critical company data weekly and store it either in a cloud or on a physical drive that’s kept offsite. That way, if your data is frozen or encrypted by a cyber-criminal, it won’t be as devastating to you or your business.
6. Install Updates Right Away
Installing software updates as soon as they’re available is essential and not to be ignored. These updates are meant to fix bugs and correct security flaws, which could potentially be exploited and used to compromise your private data. This applies to all security software, web browsers, and your operating system.
7. Educate Your Employees
82% of data breaches are a result of human error. One of the greatest things you can do is educate your employees about the best security practices. Get them thinking critically about their behavior online and the potential consequences of not being diligent regarding security. Most of these breaches come from simply opening an email and clicking a link.
Contact us today, and we will create a fully customized cyber security plan to fit all of your company’s needs.