Cybersecurity threats create a serious risk to SMBs (small-medium businesses.) Regardless of your business model, whether you’re a sales service or a space company involved in a Firefly launch, your online networks contain sensitive data and information. Unfortunately, many SMBs do not have the resources to commit to hiring a cybersecurity analyst or paying an in-house cyber security salary to keep their online systems safe.
In fact, many SMBs neglect cybersecurity. Usually, it happens because they don’t know the extent of the threat, or they do not feel their data is valuable enough to be at risk. Despite this, a staggering number of cyberattacks have been carried out on SMBs in recent years. We run through some of the steps that you can take to protect your business from cybersecurity threats.
4 Cybersecurity Steps SMBs Should Take
- Train Your Employees
Even if you run a small business, employees must be trained to spot and respond to cybersecurity threats. This training can include proper password management and how to spot phishing scams, which are known to be among the top cybersecurity threats in 2021. It is also good for companies to enforce regular password changes and send out security prompts to employees. This helps keep employees on the alert and aware of potential online dangers.
- Secure All Workplace Devices
In the age of Covid-19, it’s becoming more and more common to have remote employees or let staff work from home. This becomes a security risk if workers regularly log in on unsecured devices. Malware can target weaknesses in your online network through phones or tablets. Even smart household devices, like heating systems or security cameras, must be secured against data breaches.
If your employees regularly work from home, make sure that they work only on reliable Digital Workplace Software. You also need to ensure that these devices are properly rigged up with VPNs, antispyware, or other appropriate cybersecurity programs. MaThis will help ensure that you, and your clients, are securely protected both in and out of the office.
- Use Cloud Storage
Cloud software is a great way to store your files and data securely. Not only does cloud software automatically backup your work it also updates regularly. This means that the software runs with the most up-to-date form of protection available. Clouds, therefore, are more secure than systems that rely on manual updates, as it is very easy for a busy manager to forget or postpone updates. Cloud software is also generally affordable and can run on multiple devices and in various formats, making it great for all-around business use.
- Encrypt Emails
Email encryption is a handy way to prevent hackers from targeting your SMB through your mail server. Encryption can make it so that only the email recipient can access the email text. It can also involve setting up authentication steps. Encryption isn’t available on many commonly used servers, like Outlook or Gmail, but it is definitely something to look into if you need to transfer sensitive data via email. Although encryption does not make emails 100% secure, it is a good way to safeguard your online networks against cyberattacks.
Conclusion
Ensuring your company’s online security is a must in 2021. As we rely more and more on virtual data and information, cybersecurity should be at the forefront of business owners’ minds. Making secure preparations and keeping up with developments in cybersecurity news can help protect your customers and safeguard your business against malware and cybersecurity threats.
How do you ensure that your business is protected? Do you practice any cybersecurity measures, or have you thought about using any of these options? Let us know in the comments!
Author’s Bio:
Emily Moore is an English & programming teacher with a passion for space and blogging. She believes that current exploration should be focused on preserving our planet’s resources. With satellites circling the orbit, it is easier to get relevant data on any environmental changes. This, in turn, should help people quickly address any challenges.
