Artificial Intelligence: Deep-Learning Networks to Better Your Business
January 4, 2018
An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure
April 2, 2018
With the plethora of variables that come with owning a business, one aspect of management too easily overlooked is cybersecurity. More business are practicing digital marketing for reaching larger markets and cloud computing for management, increasing the need to make cybersecurity a bigger concern.
Small business appeal to cyber criminals for their moderate data quantity and minimal security. With employee and consumer data, bank account information, finances and intellectual property your network can be valuable prey for potential theft. Left unprotected, your business risks losing not only money but the trust of your employees, customers and vendors.
Digital information fraud is now the most commonly reported fraud, surpassing physical theft. Only about 10% of small business think they’re at risk of a cyber-attack but about 50% actually become victims. A through plan for cyber protections decreases your likelihood of being left blind sighted.
One of the first steps in protecting your business against a potentially disastrous attack is to educate yourself and your employees about the basics of cybersecurity. Creating a plan for securing your business network is the best defense you have against an attack. It’s crucial to train employees in basic security practices and establish rules for internet use. Implement an incident response plan that includes a point of contact, data and backup location, and info about when to engage law enforcement.
One of the basic practical steps you can take towards better security is to back up all your data continuously. Make backup copies of all important business data and automatically update at least weekly.
Protect all company computers with hardware or software firewell and antivirus software. Think of firewall as a digital shield preventing malicious tragic from accessing your network. Additional antivirus software will also scan your computer to detect and delete malware. Once installed you should continually protect yourself and your business by keeping all your software, web browsers and operating systems up to date to guard against the latest threats.
If you use Wi-Fi, be sure to change the default password and choose the most secure password type, a Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA2) code. Hide your network or consider a virtual private network (VPN) which can provide more security. Mobile devices can become a problem if confidential information is being accessed from a public network. Password protection, data encryption and security apps can help prevent information from being stolen. A plan should also be created in the event of lost or stolen equipment.
Cybersecurity can seem overwhelming and most small businesses might not be able to afford to keep a cybersecurity expert on staff. 20-20 Solutions, Inc. offers expert IT consulting to help you establish and maintain a secure network. Call us at 800-538-0669 to learn about how we can help you safeguard your business.
