How to Keep Your Business Safe from Security Threats

Introduction

There is a standing joke that states the best defense against harm is an offense. Although this might sound humorous, it can be very true. A security threat could come from anywhere, and not all threats are as easy to recognize or prevent. You need to take every measure possible to make sure you are secure before any potential issues arise.

The following article is here to help you do that by examining some of the most common security threats facing small businesses and how you can discover them before anyone else does.

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The security of your business has been taken seriously for quite some time now, but there's still no reason for your business not to be secured from the many dangers out there.

12 tips on improving your IT security

Small businesses are at risk of cybercriminals and malware threats. If you or your company is using Microsoft 365, there are automation tools that can support Microsoft 365 security settings.

The following tips will reduce your security risk:

Install anti-malware software on all devices that connect to the internet

Keeping your company's anti-malware software updated is key to preventing incoming threats. Ensuring it is receiving up-to-date updates is also crucial, since cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to become malicious.

Backup all of your data regularly

Cybercriminals are always on the lookout for valuable data that can be used to motivate them to attack your company or steal funds from your bank account. Keeping a separate backup reduces the risks from ransomware attacks and data loss.

Use strong passwords and change them frequently

Cybercriminals will pick up on your weak passwords and try to use them to access your accounts.

Keep your operating system and software up-to-date

Staying current with the latest security patches can help keep you protected against cybercriminals.

Use a feature called two-factor authentication (2FA) as a second layer of security

This is an extra layer of security on top of your username and password.

Use encryption on all sensitive files

You should store all of your sensitive documents on your secure cloud storage service or encrypted email service.

Use secure communication tools like encryption

If you are sending sensitive information to a potential partner, encrypt the message. If you receive an encrypted message, make sure you know what program it was sent in by verifying the corresponding public key with the organization that sent it to you.

Make sure you have a firewall in place

Firewalls can help prevent unauthorized access to your data.

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Do not open emails from addresses you do not know or emails that are unexpected in nature

If you are unsure about any email or attachments, call the sender to verify the email is legit. It would be best if you also run anti-malware software on your computer after opening any suspicious email attachment.

Run an internet scan periodically and have a malware protection plan in place

Malicious files can sneak onto your company's computers if they are not protected.

Download software updates as soon as they are available

Updating your software will help protect against any incoming threats.

Use a secure cloud storage service to upload and download files

Recent data breaches have taught us that our information is only as safe as the company we choose to store it with. Using a secure cloud storage service will help prevent any unwanted access to your sensitive data.

There are many ways to prevent your business from becoming vulnerable to malicious attacks. You need to keep your operating system and software updated. You need to be able to detect any incoming threats and update anti-malware software when needed. You need to take every precaution necessary.