As a small business owner, you may think that data breaches or cybersecurity threats are out of your league, that only international corporations are affected. Sadly, that’s not the case. Over 40% of hacking attacks focus on small businesses, and roughly half of small businesses have had to deal with cyber-attacks in recent years. How can you prepare for the very real threat of data breaches?
Where To Find Trustworthy Data Security Practices
Every industry needs to follow good data security habits. Some businesses even need to get certified before clients will work with them.
For example, government contractors need to obtain CMMC approval, especially if they want to bid on contracts for the Department of Defense. CMMC stands for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification. It’s a set of data security requirements that covers how to properly handle and protect Controlled Unclassified Information as well as Federal Contract Information.
The basic level of CMMC compliance isn’t overly complicated for small businesses to reach. For the higher levels that are required for many federal contracts, it’s necessary to follow over 100 specific practices to protect data and prevent intrusions. Many businesses need assistance to organize their personnel, set objectives and meet these requirements successfully.
The great thing about CMMC — even if you don’t foresee bidding on government contracts anytime soon — is that it can teach you important data security precautions. The guidelines from NIST SP 800-171 can benefit your entire business. Cybersecurity is something you can’t take for granted, especially in this rapidly changing online environment.
Why Improve Your Data Security Practices
Intrusions can hurt your company in many ways, such as:
- Damage to your reputation
- Financial harm to your clients
- Stolen funds from your business
- Theft of proprietary secrets
By following smart information security practices, you can avoid these issues and keep your business running smoothly. The reason some small businesses become targets of hacking is precisely that they don’t have adequate security. There’s no reason this should happen to your business.
How To Improve Your Company’s Data Security
The type of data protection you need depends on the size of your team and what services you offer. The following guidelines are general, so they apply to a wide variety of companies. They can save your business.
Invest in a High-Quality Antivirus Suite
Antivirus programs can help you avoid many online threats. They’re a primary line of defense against intrusions. Set antivirus to perform regular scans and install updates immediately.
Update Your System Regularly
Running outdated software can expose your data to vulnerabilities that were patched long ago. Make sure you install updates immediately for your operating system, accounting software, point-of-sale system and other key programs.
Only Trust Official Sources
Ironically, humans are often the weak link in cybersecurity defenses. The way many hackers gain access to computer systems is by deceiving employees or business owners via fraudulent emails, websites or text messages.
Never click on email links that claim to take you to your bank’s website for important details. Instead, visit the bank’s official website directly or visit your bank in person if you have a concern.
Avoid Suspicious Programs
Don’t install programs you don’t recognize. Never use pirated software of any type, including unauthorized versions of productivity software, such as Word or Acrobat.
Use Strong Password Protections
Modern technology has made passwords easier to break. Choose complex passwords with at least 10+ characters, including uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. Avoid using complete words. Add two-factor authentication for an extra level of security.
Train Your Employees
Your business needs clear data security rules for the entire office. Establish real penalties if employees don’t follow the rules. These guidelines should cover things such as passwords, websites to avoid, disabling email links and requiring administrator access to install any programs.
Include Mobile Device Security
Any smartphone you allow to connect to your network is a potential vulnerability. Require employees to encrypt all company data or conversations, add password protection and report stolen devices.
What To Do Next
At this point, you may be worried that cybersecurity is too expensive; however, essential data security practices are well within reach of any company. You simply need to make a choice to get started. Make cybersecurity the priority it should be.
