Cybersecurity for small businesses is a broad and important topic, but it’s also one that many small business owners struggle to understand.
This article offers insight into how to protect small businesses from cyberattacks. It discusses 5 of the most important practices that any small business should use.
Read on to learn more.
5 Cybersecurity Best Practices for Small Businesses
Use a firewall
Small businesses need to invest in a firewall. So, they can protect their company from external threats.
The firewall will enable small businesses to secure Internet-based attacks. At the same time, it can block malware and phishing attempts and keep users safe from malicious software.
Protect data
Small businesses should also invest in a solution that can prevent data loss and identity theft. To do this, small businesses should use a backup solution that can store data off-site. This will allow them to prevent data loss in case of a disaster or theft.
Businesses should store backups on an external hard drive or online backup service so that the data can be accessed from anywhere. In addition, they should encrypt the data so that not anyone can access it except for those with permission.
Update software regularly
Small business owners should also make sure they keep all software updated at all times. This includes operating systems, third-party applications, and web browsers.
Outdated software is vulnerable to cyberattacks because there may be security holes in the software that hackers can exploit.
Business owners should set up automatic updates on their computers so they don’t forget to update regularly. For web browsers, an antivirus program can help users automatically update web browsers without having to do it manually.
Don’t use default passwords for devices
Users should never use a default password on a device, including routers, wireless access points, and modems.
For example, if a router is provided by an Internet service provider with the default password, users should change it immediately upon setting up the router at home or work.
They should also change the password periodically so that it’s not as easy for hackers to figure out what it is if they access the router’s configuration menu in the future.
Passwords should not be based on dictionary words and they should be at least 10 characters long with numbers, letters, and symbols mixed in throughout the password string.
Users may want to use a password generator tool online if they have trouble coming up with passwords themselves.
Use two-factor authentication whenever possible
Users should enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. This means that their login will have something they know and something they have.
Most online services offer this option, and it’s a good idea for users to enable it so that even if someone else figures out their password, they won’t be able to log in unless they also have the physical device that has the login.
Some services may not require a physical token or smartphone, so users should check with those services to see if they offer two-factor authentication without additional hardware.
Wrapping Up
As small businesses grow, they can’t afford to be lax about cybersecurity. Small businesses should use these 5 practices to protect their company from cyberattacks.
Do you have any additions to the practices about cybersecurity? Leave a comment below!
