Small business

7 Cyber Security Tips for Small Businesses

Cyber-crimes have been on the rise in today’s world given the development of the internet and the continued technological innovations. Several businesses have suffered greatly from cyber-attacks, which have often resulted in the loss of very crucial data plus millions of monies.

Small businesses are the most targeted, which can be as a result of the lack of skills for appropriate security, the absence of an IT security expert, not training nor educating workers, the business owners not being on the know in regards to the risk, and not maintaining the security programmes to date, absence of budget for cyber security, and not maintaining the endpoints safe for the business.

Therefore, it can be concluded that the absence of secure networks makes it easy and highly probable for cyber criminals to access small businesses and steal vital data, which they use to cause harm the business both directly and indirectly.

However, there are numerous cyber security tips, which if small businesses were to abide by, they would be less prone to cybercrimes. All it is going to take would be for you to understand your business and identify any security concerns your business is likely to suffer, then apply the appropriate tips to prevent any occurrence of cyber-attacks.

This article brings into light some seven effective cyber security tips that you as a small business owner can implement in your business to stay safe from cyber-attacks and all manner of cyber-crimes.

1. Always Have an Antivirus Software Installed and Running

It is so easy for the cyber criminals to gain access to your business if you remain unprotected from viruses and malware. Some businesses have fallen victim to cyber-crime as a result of not installing anti-virus software in the businesses’ computer devices.

Antivirus software work by detecting and alerting you of any possible virus or malware. Having installed an antivirus in your computer, then your online operation remains protected as the anti-virus goes before you to ensure that the sites you are about to enter are safe or not. Also, anything sent to you via email is scanned through by the anti-virus to ensure its safety.

It is evident that anti-virus or anti-malware software are expensive, especially those intent on being used in business. However, you can check tested free antivirus software online, and install the most preferred to ensure that you remain safe, despite not being able to afford the paid antivirus software versions.

2. Install Virtual Private Network (VPN) Security in your business

A VPN creates protection by keeping your online operations private. Therefore, your activities remain confidential to you, an in the event of a hacker being present or having gained access to business, then your online transactions or data sent to you or someone outside the business via the internet is protected.

Since the business internet being used in the business is one, you may need to install a VPN to protect your business. That is because employees also access the same internet, and may share the password with family or friends unknowingly, thereby placing your business at jeopardy.

3. Educate your employees on how to detect and report any suspicious activities

The key to overcoming most cyber-crimes in small businesses is by educating and training employees on how to detect and report suspicious activities within the business. The employees are spread through many departments within a business, making it essential for them to be trained on the business’ web cyber security finest practices plus security policies.

Also, using bots in business can help to improve to business security. Also, it can help to draft a document that employees are to sign to show that they have read the security policies in place, and that they can be held accountable in the event of a criminal security breach.

4. Install a firewall to enhance business’s privacy

A firewall ensures there is blockage between your data and criminal attacks. Therefore, it is essential that you install a firewall to protect your small business.

5. Always Integrate Utilization of Multi-Factor Identification

Multifactor identification within the business ensures extra security of business’s data. A multi-factor identification ensures that more than one forms of identifications are used. For instance, in addition to the password, you may decide to use mobile numbers. Therefore, in the event of an attack, the extra security of mobile phones makes it difficult to the hacker to access crucial information in the business.

6. Avoid going into business with anyone purporting to be interested

Sometimes as small business owners, you can be desperate for financing. However, those with ill intentions will take advantage of this fact to scam you. Therefore, they will suggest a very enticing deal, and if you happen to fall for it, then they are get lucky to gain access to all your data, and then use it to scam you, together with your customers. Therefore, always be cautious with the people purporting to be genuine business people, and wanting to help by getting involved as partners in the business.

7. Know who you are employing really well

When looking to hire someone into the business, it would be best to perform a thorough background check on the person you get. Investigate the individual to know where they are from, where they have worked previously, the reason for them leaving their previous job, and their criminal record.

Some hackers disguise themselves as job seekers, and will do anything just to gain access into your business. It will then be easier to attack you from within your business, knowing they will already have access to very important and confidential information. Therefore, be cautious and know your employees really well.

Conclusion

Small businesses are prone to cyber-crimes. Hence, as a small business owner, you should work on employing the above discussed tips, to ensure complete safety of your business.

If you have any questions, please ask below!