Businesses heavily rely on technology for their everyday operations. The rise of cyber security breaches in recent years is alarming for all organizations. Though technological advancements have improved business network security, this also means that hackers have become cleverer in attempting to infiltrate your network.
Taking proactive steps to prevent or reduce cyberattacks is the best way to protect your business online. Cyberattacks can harm your business in more ways than one. It’s possible to lose profit or have operations disrupted. Worse still, a data breach can put you out of business. With all those cyber risks, here are ways to protect your business and keep operations running smoothly.
Encrypt Data and Create Backups
Encrypting data stored in databases and servers is crucial for enhanced network security as storing sensitive data in a normal-text format poses a serious risk. Data encryption ensures your data is safe and more difficult for cyber attackers to access. Aside from encryption, all files, data, and systems should have a proper backup.
Strengthen Passwords
Most cyber security attacks occur due to compromised passwords and usernames. An effective way to avoid this is to set strong passwords for every account. Using the same password for all accounts makes it easy for hackers to enter the organization’s network, so make sure they’re all different.
In case you are one to forget your passwords, your login credentials should be kept in a reliable password manager. Don’t divulge these passwords to anyone else, even your colleagues.
Train Employees in Cyber Security
You can have the most secure data encryption, but a breach can still happen due to an employee’s lack of understanding of internet security. Train your employees on how to identify cyber security risks. These risks come in many forms, such as phishing emails, malware-filled software downloads, and suspicious links. It will be easier for the team to dodge cyber security attacks with these training procedures.
Proper Security Patch Management
Ensure all your software is scanned and updated regularly. Updating your software and databases ensures that the latest security patches are in place. When you overlook or forget to update your software, your business is more susceptible to cyber security attacks.
You should also be aware of vulnerability management and identify the possible risks your current cyber security could have. You can use tools to assess network security and vulnerability management.
Install Firewalls
Firewalls are vital to ensuring your network and internet security are strong. When you install firewalls, you reduce the risk of suspicious traffic or activities making their way into your system. As there is a range of firewalls, you can choose the ones that best fit your business.
Implement a Breach Plan and Data Policy
In the worst-case scenario of a cyberattack or data breach, have a plan to reduce the risks. A cyber security expert can help you think of solutions to manage cyberattacks and cyber security policies. Aside from seeking expertise, your business should establish a data policy to maintain accountability and lessen hazards due to data breaches.
These are only some preventive measures to protect your internet security and business online. If you can’t implement these measures with your in-house employees, you can always consult with professional cyber security experts. This way, you can be assured that you can reduce cyber security attacks that are detrimental to your organization.
