5 Wise Tips to Protect Your Small Business from Cyber Threats

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many small businesses have resorted to digital platforms and online networking for surviving in the market’s competition. Across Canada, new business owners are working relentlessly to reach out to customers and fulfil their needs. However, amidst the offering of virtual services, the organization’s cybersecurity has become a significant issue.

Hackers have evolved their malicious intents and skills with advancements in technology and come up with unexpected ways to break into a company’s IT network. That has raised concerns for businesses; not just big corporations and governments, but also startups and small-scale enterprises regarding their:

• Client lists
• Customer information
• Company’s account details
• Pricing structure
• Product designs
• Trade and expansion plans
• Manufacturing processes and more

Thus, it is not just the money but the years-long reputation at stake. So, spend some time understanding the emerging trends of cyberattacks such as hacking, phishing, malware threats, social engineering, etc., and the level of risks that pose to your business. Look for reliable cybersecurity services that can assist you when the need arises. Also, try incorporating the following mentioned strategies and have your employees follow them too –

1. Upgrade Your Online Security Guards

Just like your business premises, you have to be protective of your online infrastructure. There are hundreds of threats waiting out there to take advantage of your networking, and it is only with anti-virus software and other security applications, you can keep all the intruders at bay. Make sure you download these apps from the right source and update them when available.

1. Encrypt Confidential Information

It is best to turn on your network encryption and encrypt sensitive files and documents when sending or storing them online. By doing this, you can reduce the possibilities of data theft, tampering, or destruction. Full-disk encryption software is available nowadays, so use it to encrypt all of the data you manage. Activate the software in the rest of your company devices and keep updating its features.

1. Educate Employees

As crucial it is to fine-tune the technology you rely on, it is essential to train your employees that work with it as well. Numerous studies have shown how a significant chunk of data loss incidents stems from the negligence or evil intent of internal employees. So, only by investing in cybersecurity training and implementing strict policies can you shield your IT network from the threats arising within.

1. Backup Your Files

It is needless to mention that most of the cyberattacks come with deleted or lost data as a result. Sometimes it may not hold any importance, and at times can halt your business operations in their entirety. So, to be on a safer end, it is best to rely on a regular backup program that automatically copies your files to secondary storage.

1. Consider Cyber Insurance

Despite all measures, you cannot get 100% protection assurance. Data breaches are inevitable, and all you can do is reduce the amount of damage you suffer. Experts recommend using cyber insurance for a managed cybersecurity as it covers your company’s liability for any harm to customer information, such as credit card numbers, account numbers, health records, and more.