Cybersecurity is one of the most important issues a company can face. In an age where cybercrime is on the rise, businesses need to take steps to protect their confidential data and networks from being hacked. Even a minor breach can have serious consequences, including loss of customers, damage to reputation, and financial losses.
That’s why companies need to incorporate cybersecurity into their business plans and procedures. There are many ways to do this, and not all of them are expensive or time-consuming.
Here are a few easy ways to make a company more cyber secure.
Have the right policies and procedures in place
It’s essential to make sure a company has a plan for dealing with cyber security threats. This includes using computers and other technology, especially if a company has an open wireless network. Be sure to have parental controls on devices employees use to access the Internet or other systems while at work. There should also be guidelines for what types of files can be downloaded from the Internet and shared across different networks.
Many cyber security companies hold regular seminars to re-emphasise these policies, especially when the threat of hacking is higher. Updating and clarifying policies and procedures can help employees understand their role in cyber security, as well as prevent them from inadvertently opening up the company to hackers.
Make network security a priority
The first line of defence for any business is its network. This means having a firewall that blocks unauthorised users from accessing the Internet through a router—and only allows those with strong passwords to gain access—is crucial.
A company should also make sure it uses updated software on all devices connected to the network, including computers, mobile phones, and tablets. Using outdated software won’t stop hackers, but it will make it easier to access information and steal data.
The companies with the most robust protections tend to know how much data can be accessed through one computer or device. This means having a tech expert on call who can quickly get unchallenged, unmonitored access to the Internet and disconnect from it just as quickly, when necessary. This person should also know how to engage in counter-surveillance so that they don’t give hackers any clues about what they are doing or where they are located.
Focus on employee education and awareness
Many security breaches happen because employees don’t follow common-sense practices like:
- Checking email addresses and links before clicking on them
- Never opening emails or attachments from unknown senders
- Not putting passwords into devices while at work
- Staying up-to-date with their computer software to avoid outdated components such as Flash players
A company can help its employees follow these guidelines by organising regular seminars and workshops on cyber security. A company should also run drills to know what to do if their device is compromised or an email appears suspicious.
Another option is to include cyber awareness as part of a new employee orientation program, which will give them all the information they need about cybersecurity without having to hold several separate meetings.
Maintain a backup system
Companies need to have backups in place and regularly test them. For example, some organisations shut down services one day each month during lunch hour, ensuring everything is working correctly after any updates or changes are made. They can then spot any potential errors before they become more significant problems.
This is one of the most effective ways to prevent a security breach from compromising a company’s entire system. It will also help keep all employees, including management and administration, accountable for their roles in cyber security.
Routinely update operating systems and software
Keeping operating systems and software up-to-date not only ensures that a company has the latest security measures but also helps it avoid incompatible bits of code that can contribute to vulnerabilities.
Major software companies often hold updates for this very reason; it’s essential to make sure these updates are installed immediately so that hackers don’t exploit a lack of knowledge about outdated components.
Plan ahead when it comes to security breaches
A company should have a plan in place that details which employees are responsible for handling cyber security breaches and the protocols they should follow. It is essential for stopping hackers quickly and limiting the damage they can do to a company’s systems.
Some of these actions might include using data encryption tools, directing all emails containing vital information about past or future operations through this encryption program, and working with local law enforcement agencies to report any potential criminal activity connected to the breach.
Conclusion
It’s evident that cyber security is essential for business and that there are several measures a company can take to ensure it is protected, such as hiring a dedicated cyber security company to put preventative measures in place. Just remember that the only way to bolster these protections is by ensuring employees understand their roles in protecting corporate data, staying up-to-date on software updates, and having a backup plan in place.
Featured image: Created using graphics from Jcomp/Freepik
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