Business operations today run partially or wholly online, and cybercriminals target companies of all sizes. If you’re a business owner, you can’t ignore the threat of hackers and online criminals. In this article, we talk about cybersecurity and the steps you can take to implement a strong cybersecurity solution.
What is a Cybersecurity Solution?
Cybersecurity refers to your company’s protection against unauthorized or criminal use of online data. Meanwhile, cybersecurity solutions are steps taken to implement cybersecurity and prevent risks and threats such as:
- Phishing: a social engineering attack where cybercriminals obtain data by pretending to be a legitimate business representative directing you to a fake website. The website asks you to enter your password and other information.
- Malware: malicious software that compromises your system’s data availability, confidentiality, or integrity. These programs are one of the most common and biggest threats that businesses face today.
- Ransomware: a type of malware that limits your access to your system. The program then asks you to provide a type of “ransom” to decrypt the system and regain your access.
- DDoS attacks: distributed denial of service limits your access to your network by overwhelming it with traffic requests, slowing the network’s response time. DDoS attacks often serve as a distraction as cybercriminals commit other cybercrimes.
To counter these risks, businesses can use many types of cybersecurity solutions, such as:
- Perimeter Security: serves as a barrier between the internet and your network. Perimeter security solutions include firewalls, intrusion prevention, and spam protection systems.
- Intranet Security: this projects individual devices and computers from malware that has infiltrated the local network. Common strategies include updating and patching software and installing anti-malware software into each device.
- Human Security: this solution focuses on the human side of the system. Strategies include providing comprehensive security awareness training to employees and conducting security tests with them.
Implementing Cybersecurity Solutions to Your Business
Apart from investing in perimeter, intranet, and human security solutions, you can further fortify your cybersecurity by doing the following:
Always Update Software
Outdated apps have vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit easily. Updating programs and installing software updates and patches prevent this from happening.
Have Backup Data
Always have data backups for your files and documents, including those stored in the cloud. Regularly check your on-premise and cloud servers regularly. Make sure that they’re functioning properly.
Have Secure Wifi Networks
Weakly protected Wifi networks are easy targets for cybercriminals. Make sure your wifi network is encrypted and hidden — your router shouldn’t broadcast its network name. Come up with a strong password, and change it regularly.
Don’t Forget Mobile Devices
Mobile devices for business use are also prone to cybersecurity threats, especially if they’re used to store confidential data. Require your employees to install security apps and encrypt their data. On top of that, come up with a strict protocol for reporting lost or stolen company equipment.
Update Strong Passwords Regularly
Strong passwords are composed of complex combos of alphanumeric and special characters. Require your employees to use such passwords on everything they use — from their computers to mobile devices. Implement two-factor authentication when accessing sensitive data. Encourage them not to share passwords with anyone.
Limit Access to Software Installations
Limit the number of people who can install software programs on computers. Those with access to installations should only cater to their role’s needs. Everyone should ask for the network administrator’s permission before accessing data or installing any programs on computers and devices.
Consult an MSP
If you lack the resources for a strong IT team, consider consulting managed IT service providers. Outsourcing your IT needs may be a huge investment upfront, but its long-term benefits outweigh the upfront costs you’ll shoulder.
