4 Crucial Cyber Security Focus Areas for your Business
Cyber-crime no longer is the exclusive domain of big business. Research suggests nearly 25% of small businesses have been the subject of some form of cyber-crime attack.
Taking the necessary steps for protection, should include your attention to these four focus areas
- Internet Connection
Your exposure starts primarily with your access to the outside world. Provide a firewall between your business network and the internet. That should include any device that accesses the internet, (servers, pc’s, mobile phones etc) and include any potential access points [ WiFi, Mobile Hotspot, Fiber Optic routers etc)
Your business network should remain a ring-fenced sterile environment, and protecting against unwanted infiltration via the web is the first major defence.
- Install Security Software
Your second level of protection should happen at the level of the hardware being used on your system.
Installing anti-malware, anti-virus, security software on hardware and networks, will offer further protection if your network is infiltrated. There are many free software options, as well as subscription based solutions.
Make sure you have the right degree of software sophistication and correct installation settings, for your companies specific threat needs.
Remember also to prevent outside hardware, ie not part of your business structure, to access your network without knowing their security status. Giving visitors, clients, technicians etc access to your network even just “once-off”, may unleash Pandora’s Box.
- People and Process
Your security efforts will only be as strong as the people who comply with your strategy. Make sure you have a documented ICT Security Policy. ( ICT = Internet, Communication, Technology).
Make sure your staff are trained on the procedures, but that they also fully understand how cyber–security threats work, and what the impact on the business could be if processes not followed.
A strict Password Policy, controlling access to various hardware, your network, and the internet is crucial.
Controlling what software is loaded on your network, who can load it, and keeping that software up to date against hacking threats, will also increase your protection.
- Back Up
Backing up all your company, crucial data is one important safeguard in the event all your efforts fail to prevent a cyber-security attack, and you lose data as a result.
The backed up data must be securely stored OFF your network, otherwise it too may be compromised and lost. Use online back-up storage options, or removable hard drives that can be safely stored.
Cyber-security presents the most dangerous technology threat to a business, however when developing a cyber-security policy, you should also consider other technology threats to your business that can be included. Threats like hardware theft, data breach, unauthorized data access, viruses reaching your network other than through the internet, should all be considered
The above four focus areas help direct attention to a security policy starting point. There are multiple potential technology threats and risks to your business, and many, often complicated, solutions needed to address the threats. Starting with the basics can however, protect your business from future calamity.
More Reading:
10 Cyber Security Tips for Small Business
8 Cyber Security Best Practices for Business
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