Did you know that over a third of small businesses don’t take proactive measures to protect against cyber-attacks, and most are happy believing that their antivirus software will do the trick to protect them.
Cyberthreats aren’t just a problem for big companies and governments, as has been proven many times over small businesses are targets too. Indications are that 22% of small businesses have been targets of cyberattack attacks.
It’s essential to protect your business from cyberattacks; however, they aren’t quite sure how to do this or where to start for some business owners. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the world of cybersecurity.
What’s at Risk?
Cyberattacks put your money, data, and IT equipment at risk. If a hacker gains access to your network, they could do much damage through what they find, such as:
• Access to client data
• Customer credit card information
• Your banking details
• Confidential documents
• Business plans
• Manufacturing processes
These hackers may use the access gained to your network as a steppingstone into the systems of other companies that you have access to or have a connection to and exploit these gateways.
What gets targeted during an Attack?
A cyberattack can drastically impact your business. While that may be the most devastating result of the attack, there are other consequences that your business could experience, including some of the following:
• Financial losses from theft of banking information
• Financial losses from disruption of business
• High costs to remediation of threats
• Damage to your reputation
Training Employees
Employees can leave your business vulnerable to an attack as most documented attacks usually stem from employees who either maliciously or carelessly give cybercriminals access to your networks.
An attack may occur when an employee loses a work device or gives away login credentials via social engineering attacks. They could also open a fraudulent email inadvertently deploys viruses or malware on the network.
To protect against threats from within, invest in your employees’ education concerning what they should do if they get, for example, a suspicious email.
Deploy Antivirus Software
Antivirus software can help protect your devices from viruses, spyware, ransomware, and phishing scams. Make sure the software offers protection and technology that enables you to clean your computer to a pre virus state.
Regularly Update your Software
The software that you use to keep your business running should be up to date. Every piece of software is updated periodically to strengthen it or add patches that close coding loopholes hackers can slide through.
Backup Your Files Regularly
Do you back up your data and files? If a cyberattack happens or a crypto locker virus occurs, data could be compromised or deleted altogether. If that happens, could your business still run? Given the amount of data you might store on laptops and smartphones, most companies wouldn’t be able to function if something went wrong.
To help, rely on a backup program that automatically copies your files to storage. In the event of an attack, you can restore all of your files from your backups. Store copies of backups offline so they don’t become encrypted or inaccessible if your system suffers a ransomware attack. You can alternatively have everything sorted by an IT Managed Services company, which could be an option so that you don’t have to worry about missing a backup or navigating different backup solutions.
Avoid looking at Cheap options
You don’t want a company that comes in, installs some software, and disappears. A company claiming to specialize in one field without offering additional products or support can’t provide the protection you need.
Extra Support
Whether there’s a threat detected or having trouble backing up your files, you want a company that offers impeccable support. Trying to navigate the risks, finds solutions and issues yourself would be too time-consuming. We take the hassle out of cybersecurity for you and your business to focus on what matters.
Growth Potential
Your business will likely grow, and you need a cybersecurity company that can grow with you. Small business owners have always had long to-do lists, but now, cybersecurity is at the top of the list. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your small business, and the right cybersecurity or IT Managed Services provider will help mitigate your risks.
