When it comes to securing networks and systems from cybersecurity attacks, large online corporations get the most attention. However, that doesn’t mean small and medium-sized businesses are not facing the same security risks every day.
If hackers can breach through some of the most secure networks in the world, imagine what they can do to a small business that doesn’t even have a security team. Luckily, there are things you can do to increase the online safety of your company even if you don’t have a team of experts in place! Here are five tips that you should implement right now to improve online security.
#1 Improve Password Protection
Passwords are the most common barrier between hackers and the company’s sensitive data. However, even though passwords are standing fits on the battle line, most users don’t pay much attention to them. This leads to frequent data breaches and unauthorized access break-ins of both personal and corporate accounts.
To improve password protection, you should start by replacing all passwords with stronger codes that contain a combination of numbers and letters. Instead of setting up the same password for each account, consider using a password manager tool to handle multiple passwords in one safe location.
#2 Limit Access
The people who have access to a network can be considered its number one vulnerability. In most cases, employees in small businesses are not aware of potential security threats lurking online. Thus, they can easily expose corporate data or compromise the entire system without even knowing about it.
That’s why you should start limiting access to the network based on the employee’s job and position. You don’t have to let all employees access every part of the network. Instead, add additional passwords to this layered structure to keep sensitive data out of reach even to the people closest to your business.
#3 Monitor Personal Devices
Small businesses often don’t have the budget to give out corporate devices to their employees. That means the employees are most likely going to use their personal devices for work purposes at some point. If those personal devices are not properly secured, they could serve as a hacker’s back door into the system.
As a business owner, you can install monitoring software to keep track of employee’s personal devices and push automatic security updates to ensure they meet the online security policy. The next tip will also help you tackle this issue.
#4 Educate Employees
Even if you only have 2 to 5 employees in your small business, it is of crucial importance to teach them the basics of online security. By educating your employees, you will not only secure your business but also build a solid foundation for your team.
As your business grows and the team expands, the new employees will have someone to learn from to avoid the rookie mistakes that could lead to cybersecurity threats. Overall, you can never go wrong with a little extra education.
#5 Find an IT Consultant
Last but not least, if you want to get professional help to secure your business but you don’t have the budget to maintain a security team, consider talking to an IT consultant. These professionals can help you learn more about cybersecurity and implement the right measures for your business.
Use the NIST Guidelines
If you need help with staying on track with all the cybersecurity measures and updates, consider following the NIST framework and its guidelines for online security. As long as you implement the right security measures and keep your employees on the same page, you shouldn’t be worried about your data getting exposed.
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