Last updated on August 13, 2019
For many small businesses, the opportunities offered by the digital space are endless since it is the one place they can compete with larger organizations on almost equal footing. However, the entry of many of these businesses to the online space has also increased the number of cyber attacks directed at them.
While large companies can rely on a large number of technical support in house and from consultants outside, for a small business, the responsibility is usually left to you the owner and one or two other people not necessarily experts on cyber security.
This includes the sales, purchases, loans, wages and salary, and most of the things about money and other transactions online. The good thing is with some actions; you can prevent cyber attacks directed at your business.
Here are Four Important Tips to Implement into Your Small Businesses:
1) Use a Genuine Operation System and Keep It Updated
Small businesses should avoid the temptation of using pirated OS, however, cost saving that may seem. Genuine OS come with defending systems that are regularly updated and supported by the companies that make them. Pirated systems are already compromised and cannot be updated to match the security concerns of the day. Outdated systems are the most vulnerable to hackers.
2) Encryption of Information and All Full Computer Encryption
All the information the company has online should be encrypted. This includes customers’ information and all databases stored by the company in cloud storage, emails and more. There are many services and software that can help you encrypt this information such that only the intended recipient and those with the right administrative rights can access.
Even a computer or laptop offline contains massive amounts of valuable information. This can be cloned by someone with a few minutes’ access to the computer. Cloned hard drives can be mined for sensitive information if the data in there is not encrypted
3) Make Use of a Password Manager and Two-Step Verification Process
A password manager ensures concrete passwords are used by all employees in the company. It also ensures no one password is used across many devices and accounts increasing the risk and scope of a breach.
For sensitive accounts including those you make purchases online with, a two-step verification helps further avoid hackers gaining access and control of your accounts.
4) Come Up with a Policy and a Contingency Plan
However, small your operation you will need clear guidelines for you and your employees to follow with regards to cyber security. Educate them on the risks and have an action plan on what to do should a breach or attack happen.