Whether at home, at work or as part of your business, a firm cybersecurity policy has never been more crucial. Although a global pandemic is sweeping the world, malicious hackers are working overtime. So far, the year 2021 has cost the world of business almost $3 million per minute due to cybercrime.
You don’t have to put up with this, and protecting yourself, employees, clients, and your business isn’t too tricky. But it requires some time, patience and a little money. Employees are the first step and upgrades and updates are also vital. A robust software policy provides a wall of defence, and investment in good quality anti-malware is essential.
Additional steps are also available. To make your cybersecurity infrastructure even more robust, you can adopt a more proactive approach. Where data is concerned, a professional audit can help highlight weaknesses and mitigate risk. Additionally, an IT management company can guard your network as part of a low fee monthly package. Also, You should save sensitive data concerning your company, employees and clients alike as much as possible – daily is the recommended minimum.
Educate Your Employees
One of the easiest ways for a malicious hacker to gain unauthorized access to your network is by manipulating employees. Hackers will also take advantage of inadequate staff training when it comes to network security. At the very least, you should make staff aware of social engineering tactics. But phishing and suspicious email attachments are still significant entry points for malicious attacks.
Upgrade Outdated Servers
Servers are expensive, but a cyber attack will cost you far more. The average cost of a malicious hack is approximately £3,000 in the UK. An external server company might host your business files and websites off-site, but if not, then you need to upgrade your servers every 3 to 5 years. You should consider contacting Electrical Installation Condition Report Services for a new inspection as the additional electrical requirements of upgraded servers might affect throughput.
Install Reputable AntiMalware
A vital line of defence against hackers is quality anti-malware. Anti-malware programs can prevent and detect suspicious emails, monitor websites and malicious executable software. Some packages also ship with extra features such as encryption, comprehensive server security and cloud-based backup systems. Some of the best and most affordable are ESET Endpoint Security, Bitdefender and Trend Microsystems.
Implement a Strong Password Policy
Poor passwords facilitate any successful cyber attacks. Even with today’s more extensive awareness of hacking, a shocking number of businesses don’t implement a firm password policy as part of their security infrastructure. A recent survey found that 59% of people admitted to reusing the same password for multiple accounts. Passwords like “123456” are not acceptable. Instead, you can use password management software like 1Password, BitWarden and LastPass.
Keep Software Updated
Most people aren’t aware of it, but outdated software is a widely used back door for malicious hackers. As software ages, it develops vulnerabilities of which hackers can take advantage. Vulnerabilities are a prevalent feature of operating systems like Microsoft Windows. Connected devices over the Internet of Things are also at significant risk due to their relation to each other. Fortunately, software updates are free, and you should perform them as much as possible, weekly, if not daily.
Consult Cybersecurity Experts
Of course, you could seek the advice of professional cybersecurity experts. At the same time, hundreds, if not thousands, of articles out there about cybersecurity. But reading about it will only get you so far. Network security professionals will identify and mitigate risks as part of a detailed assessment of your system and write a detailed report so that your network team can implement a more substantial infrastructure.
Consider Subscribing to a Managed IT Service
Implementing and maintaining a sound cybersecurity system is an ongoing process that requires a degree of proactivity. You may not be able to afford an onsite professional as an added expense. But there are options available. Managed IT services offer network administration and cybersecurity packages at a fraction of the cost of hiring an individual manager. Packages are usually tiered based on business size and requirements, and charges are relatively low monthly fees.
Backup Data as Much as Possible
The most devastating loss that can occur following a cyber attack is the loss of data. Data can be crucial to a company’s operations as well as sensitive and personal. A medical practice, for example, holds personal data in high regard, and there could be legal action following a breach. You might also store credit card details and other sensitive data that hackers could sell for identity theft as a business. Therefore, off-site and cloud backup of data should be performed daily or hourly if possible.
Use Common Sense
Finally, rely on your wits to alert you to possible threats. Making mistakes is a common reason for successful attacks, and you can prevent all but the most aggressive campaigns. If you spot an employee reusing passwords, then advise them to make some changes. You could also use encryption where necessary, such as interoperation devices like company laptops and smartphones. And it would be best if you aimed to become proactive in defence of your company. Learn as much as you can and work with experts to develop the most robust system possible.
To sum up, cybersecurity is an ongoing process, and the risk of a malicious attack is genuine. Cyber attacks cost companies billions per year. However, you can protect yourself by educating your employees about standard cyber-attack methods.
It might also be time to upgrade your company servers if they are older than 3 years. Good anti-malware is an excellent defence against hackers, as is password management software. Additionally, it would help if you spent some time ensuring that all your software is regularly updated.
Extra measures you can take include the protection of data. Cybersecurity experts will audit your network and make recommendations for areas of improvement. Managed IT services can help with cybersecurity and cost significantly less than hiring an onsite IT manager. And you should try to backup company and client data as much as possible. Some experts recommend hourly backups if possible.
