Cybercriminals never rest, and they often target small businesses on the belief that they lack the resources to defend themselves. The truth is that there are some simple steps companies of any size can take to ward off attacks.
1. Use Secure Passwords
Secure passwords are the cornerstone of a sound cybersecurity policy. Ask your employees to use unique, secure passwords and change them every three months. Some tips from the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency include:
- Consider using the longest password permissible.
- Include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Avoid common phrases, quotations, or song lyrics.
- Don’t reuse passwords.
- Consider using a password manager to keep track of all your passwords.
- Avoid words that can be used in any dictionary of any language.
2. Provide Training
Cyberattacks evolve constantly and grow in sophistication. Things that are safe to do today may leave you vulnerable to an attack tomorrow. That’s why continuous cybersecurity training is a good investment that helps safeguard your information and that of your customers.
3. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network
While your Wi-Fi may be key to the operation of your business, it may also leave you exposed to cyberattacks. To get a modicum of protection, change your router’s password and make sure your Wi-Fi is encrypted and hidden. To hide your Wi-Fi connection, go to the settings of the modem and hide the Service Set Identifier (or SSID).
4. Install a Firewall
A firewall is a device that monitors and filters incoming and outgoing network traffic. Firewalls can be a physical device, a piece of software, or a combination of both. Installing a firewall requires some expertise, so may need the help of a cybersecurity company. However, keeping attacks at bay is well worth the investment.
5. Backup Your Data
There’s an old saying in IT (known as Schofield’s second law of computing) according to which “Data doesn’t really exist unless you have two copies of it.” Backup sensitive data automatically or at least weekly.
More Tips and Ideas
At the ONE Inland Empire Chamber of Commerce, we are always looking for ideas that help foster the growth of your business. Here are some previous posts to help you do just that:
- 3 Simple ways to protect yourself against identity theft
- Common grammar mistakes to avoid in your business emails
- The key to becoming a better leader
Interested in learning more about the ONE Inland Empire Chamber of Commerce? Contact us today by email (info@oneinlandempire.com), telephone (951-280-3902), or social media. We look forward to hearing from you!
