The number of cyber attacks are on the rise and businesses of all sizes are under threat. With those hit by severe attacks losing up to 25% of their revenue, the impact of cyber attacks can’t be underestimated.
Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do to keep your devices and data secure. Here are some tips that will help you be more secure online and keep your business safe.
Understand You’re a Target to Hackers
The first step to protecting your IT security is simply understanding that regardless of who you are or the size of your business, you are a target for hackers and need to take the necessary steps to protect your organisation.
It’s easy to think “It won’t happen to me” but you shouldn’t get complacent.
Install Anti-Virus Software
Effective antivirus protects against all kinds of malicious software including ransomware, trojan horse programmes, and bots. Regardless of whether you are running MacOS or Windows operating systems, you need to make sure all devices have proper anti-virus software installed.
Once they’re installed, you need to make sure you perform the necessary updates so your devices aren’t left vulnerable to even outdated attacks
Plan for Disasters and Security Incidents
Put a plan in place for your organisation so you are prepared for every eventuality. You need to identify the funding and resources needed to develop, deliver and maintain the cyber security of your organisation should the worst happen. Resources could be in-house or you could partner with cyber security specialists who can deliver what you need.
As part of your plan, you need to make provisions for data backup and disaster recovery so that you can feel confident that your organisation’s data is safe from harm.
With proper data backup services in place, all user data can be easily backed up, regardless of employee location or device. If needed, data can be quickly restored to the affected users within minutes, allowing your business to get back up and running as soon as possible.
Implement Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication verifies your identity using at least two different forms of authentication and can help protect against password guessing and theft on online services.
While a password is still needed as a first step, the second stage of authentication could involve a fingerprint or facial recognition. You might be asked to enter a code sent via text or tap a confirmation button on a mobile app. Some banking applications also have a physical Security Key.
It can be a pain for the user having to pass another layer of security but it makes your accounts more secure so it is a must.
Make Sure Employees Know how to Recognise Phishing Attacks
Part of securing your business online, is being smart about what you click. Phishing links can appear in email and messaging apps masquerading as secure websites and tempting you to give away details while download links can cause malware to automatically download onto your device.
Your employees have a responsibility to help keep your business secure. Make sure that they understand their role and any relevant policies and procedures. Ensure that cyber security training is provided to all employees and educate them so they can identify phishing attacks and know not to click on links unless they’re sure of the source.
Keep Your Organisation Safe
These are some basic steps you can take right now to help keep your organisation more secure. By following the steps mentioned above and remaining vigilant, you’ll be doing your part to protect yourself and your business.
If you’re looking for some further expert advice and support regarding your business’s cyber security, get in touch with our team today.
