As a business owner, you know that protecting your company from cyber threats is vital to its success. But with so many different types of threats out there, it can be difficult to know where to start.
Never fear! In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the most common cyber threats and how you can protect your business from them. From phishing scams to malware, we’ve got you covered. So read on, and rest assured that your business is in good hands.
Back Up Your Data
A key part of business continuity planning is to have a robust data backup strategy in place to protect your business from cyber threats such as ransomware.
Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your files and then demands a ransom to decrypt them. It can spread quickly through your network, and if you don’t have a recent backup of your data, you may not be able to recover your lost files.
In addition to backing up your data regularly, you should also have a plan for how you would recover from a ransomware attack. This should include having offline backups that are not connected to your network, so that even if your network is compromised, you can still restore your data.
If you are hit by ransomware, do not pay the ransom. There is no guarantee that you will get your data back even if you do pay, and you could inadvertently help to fund future attacks. Instead, contact a reputable cyber security company for help with recovering your data.
Secure Your Devices and Network
Make sure all devices connected to your network have the latest security updates and firmware installed. This includes computers, routers, printers, and any other type of smart device. Regularly install patches and updates as they become available from the manufacturers.
In addition to securing your devices, you should also invest in next-generation antivirus (AV) software. This type of software uses artificial intelligence to identify and block malware before it can do any damage.
Encrypt Important Information
There are many ways to protect your business from cyber threats, but one of the most important is to encrypt important information. This can be done using a tool like BitLocker or a VPN.
BitLocker is a tool that encrypts your hard drive, making it difficult for attackers to access your data. You can also use BitLocker to encrypt removable media, such as USB drives.
A VPN (virtual private network) encrypts all of the traffic between your computer and the VPN server, making it difficult for anyone to snoop on your traffic. TLS (Transport Layer Security) and SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) are two common protocols used by VPNs.
Ensure you use multi-factor authentication (MFA)
One of the most important steps you can take to protect your business from cyber threats is to ensure you use multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA adds an additional layer of security by requiring a user to provide not only their username and password, but also using a one-time passcode (OTP).
While MFA is not foolproof, it significantly reduces the chances of your business becoming the victim of a cyberattack. In addition, using MFA can also help you comply with industry-specific regulations, such as those in the healthcare and financial sectors.
There are a number of different MFA solutions available, so it’s important to choose one that best meets the needs of your business. Some factors to consider include the types of devices your employees use, the level of security you require, and whether you need offline access. You should also consider the cost of implementation and ongoing maintenance.
If you’re not sure where to start, our team of cybersecurity experts can help you assess your risks and select the right MFA solution for your business. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Train your staff to be Safe Online
In today’s digital world, businesses must take precautions to protect themselves from a range of cyber threats. One of the best ways to do this is to train your staff in online safety and security. By increasing their awareness of the risks and teaching them how to be a ‘human firewall’, you can help reduce the chances of your business being targeted by cyber criminals.
There are a number of online resources that can be used to create awareness training programs for your staff. safemode IT offers a range of free e-learning modules on topics such as phishing, password security and social media safety. The US-based National Cyber Security Alliance also has a number of helpful resources, including an awareness training program called Stop.Think.Connect.
It is important to tailor your awareness training to the needs of your business and its employees. safemode IT offers guidance on how to do this, as well as how to promote and deliver the training effectively. By taking these measures, you can help create a culture of security within your organization and reduce the risks posed by cyber threats.