It’s a common misunderstanding among small business owners that they don’t pose a great opportunity for hackers’ cyber attacks. While small businesses may operate on a smaller stage economically, they’re still a target for cybersecurity risks. And with 43% of online attacks now aimed at small businesses, owners increasingly need to start making high-tech security a top priority.
But a fair question to ask is, “why are small businesses attacked more often than larger businesses?” Almost all cyberattacks are to obtain personal data to use in identity or credit card theft. While large companies usually have more data to take advantage of, smaller businesses have less secure networks, making it easier to breach their system. By using automated attacks, cybercriminals can breach hundreds of thousands of smaller firms, making size less of an issue than cybersecurity.
So, how can businesses of any size avoid being a victim of a cyber attack? And what are cybersecurity tips for businesses? Here are some tips to consider.
Use a Firewall
One of the most basic cybersecurity best practices to avoid cyberattacks, such as malware, is to set up a firewall. All small businesses should set up a firewall to provide a barrier between their data and the cybercriminals out to get it. Furthermore, many companies are beginning to install internal firewalls on top of external entities to provide additional protection. And with so many people working from home for the time being due to the spread of COVID-19, that must set up a firewall as well, especially since they are connected to a company’s data network.
Plan for Mobile Device Use
Whether it’s a company phone or personal tablet or laptop, companies are now operating remotely, allowing their workers to go about their business outside the office. While this has made doing business more accessible and tech-friendly, it has also opened the doors for more potential cybersecurity risks. And with the increasing popularity in wearables, such as smartwatches, it is essential to include these devices in your cybersecurity policy. Small businesses should require that employees set up automatic security updates and require that the company’s password policy apply to all mobile devices with access to the network.
Safe Password Practices
While changing a password every so often might seem like an annoyance, it’s essential to keep data networks safe from cybersecurity issues. Employees should be required to change their password every 60 to 90 days and use passwords with upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. In today’s more mobile-friendly business climate, all employee devices with access to the company network must be password protected.
Back-Up Data Regularly
While it’s essential to prevent as many attacks as possible, it’s still possible to be the victim of a breach, regardless of precautions taken. Back up word processing documents, electronic spreadsheets, databases, financial files, accounts receivable, and human resources files. Businesses should be sure to back up all data stored on the cloud and store this data in a separate location in case of a disaster like fires or floods.
While not every attack can be prevented or planned for, having these best practices can limit exposure and risk. Using a proactive approach to cybersecurity risks can help companies of any size stay on top of protecting their information and employees, and, in the long run, their bottom line.
About The Hilb Group
Deciding what coverage you need and what limits and deductibles make the most sense can be tricky. Founded in 2009, the Hilb Group has been helping clients to make sense of their options and make the smartest choices for their circumstances. Whether you need Warehouse Insurance or any other type of business or personal coverage, we encourage you to contact our friendly, experienced, and capable team today. Call us at (800) 776-3078 for a consultation.