Cyber criminals target companies of all sizes. Knowing some cybersecurity basics and putting them into practice will help you protect your business and reduce the risk of a cyber-attack.
MAKE SMART SECURITY YOUR BUSINESS AS USUAL
- Require strong passwords
A strong password is at least 12 characters that are a mix of numbers, symbols, and capital
lowercase letters. Never reuse passwords, and don’t share them on the phone, in texts, or by email.
Limit the number of unsuccessful login attempts to limit password-guessing attacks.
- Train all staff
Create a culture of security by implementing a regular schedule of employee training. Update employees as you find out about new risks and vulnerabilities. If employees don’t attend, consider blocking their access to the network.
- Have a plan
Have a plan for saving data, running the business, and notifying customers if you experience a breach.
HOW TO PROTECT DATA ON YOUR DEVICES?
A burglary, lost laptop, stolen mobile phone, or misplaced flash drive — all can happen due to lapses in physical security. But they’re less likely to result in a data breach if information on those devices is protected. Here are a few ways to do that:
- Require complex passwords
Require passwords that are long, complex, and unique. And make sure that these passwords are stored securely. Consider using a password manager.
- Use multi-factor authentication
Require multi-factor authentication to access areas of your network with sensitive information. This requires additional steps beyond logging in with a password — like a temporary code on a smartphone or a key that’s inserted into a computer.
- Limit login attempts
Limit the number of incorrect login attempts allowed to unlock devices. This will help protect against intruders.
- Encrypt
Encrypt portable media, including laptops and thumb drives, that contain sensitive information. Encrypt any sensitive data you send outside of the company, like to an accountant or a shipping service.
