How to protect your company from Cyber Attacks?

Without question, the Internet is the most prolific technological innovation in recent history, especially when it comes to facilitating business. The internet allows companies of all sizes to reach new and larger markets. In fact, the number of businesses seeking to go paperless has been on the rise for a very long time because online transactions provide a very convenient way to engage with consumers. Unfortunately, the popularity of internet transactions has the simultaneous effect of attracting cyber criminals who actively prey on poorly protected networks. Theft of digital information has become the most commonly reported fraud, even surpassing physical theft. This means that every business which uses the Internet is responsible for creating an ecosystem of security which will enhance business by repelling cyber-attacks.

Here are a few tips on how to strengthen cyber security at your business:

1) Train Employees on Best Practices

Your company’s first line of defense against malicious hackers is an educated staff. Establish basic security practices and policies for employees, such as requiring strong passwords, and establish appropriate Internet-use guidelines that detail penalties for violating company cybersecurity policies. You should also establish rules of behavior describing how to handle and protect customer information and other vital data.

2) Use Sophisticated Resources to protect your Devices from Cyber Attacks

The best thing you can do to stay safe from hackers is keeping clean machines. Your devices should have the latest security software, updated web browsers, and operating systems which actively scan for viruses, malware, and other online threats. Also make sure your operating system's firewall is enabled or install free firewall software available online.

3) Secure your Wi-Fi networks

If you use a Wi-Fi network for your workplace, make sure it is secure, encrypted, and hidden. All it takes to hide your Wi-Fi network is configuring your router so that it doesn’t broadcast your network name. You should also password-protect access to your routers.

4) Have Strong Passwords

If your accounts have weak passwords, hackers can gain access to your computers using basic methods. This is why you should require employees to use unique passwords, and change passwords every three months. Consider implementing multi-factor authentication that requires additional information beyond a password to gain entry.

Conclusion

No business, small or large, can afford to ignore cyber security anymore. Nobody’s saying you need to do everything imaginable under the sun to protect yourself, but you should definitely do something at the very least to deter casual cyber criminals from victimizing your company. Considering how many attacks happen regularly, even small businesses need to pay close attention to cyber security because weak systems are increasingly becoming a point of focus for attackers. Make sure your employees understand how to be responsible with data, use antivirus and firewalls, and password protect your systems as much as possible. For business development coaching by Richard Martinez, call at 626-202-2291 or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.