As an entrepreneur or business owner, you already know that it’s important to have a strong online presence. After all, potential customers are more likely to find you online than they are through any other channels. But while having an online presence is essential, it’s also important to ensure that your online presence is secure.
Cybersecurity should be at the top of your mind regarding your business. After all, a cyberattack could completely derail all of your hard work. Today, Discenza Business Continuity Solutions explains the most prevalent cybersecurity risks for businesses and provides four tips to help you keep your business safe from cybersecurity threats.
What Are the Potential Consequences of a Cyberattack?
Business owners who suffer a cyberattack can face a variety of consequences, including:
- Financial losses
- Damage to your company’s reputation
- Loss of customers
- Inability to operate your business
- Regulatory fines
Each of these consequences can have a significant impact on your business. Financial losses can set you back years, while damage to your company’s reputation can be difficult to recover from. And if you’re unable to operate your business, it could mean having to close your doors for good. That’s why it’s so important to take steps to protect your business from cybersecurity threats. Here are four tips to help you do just that:
- Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication
When it comes to passwords, stronger is always better. This means using a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. It’s also important to avoid using easily guessed words like “password” or your company name.
In addition to using strong passwords, you should also enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to enter a code from your phone and your password when logging into your account.
When it comes to safeguarding sensitive information, password-protected PDFs are an excellent way to keep your data safe. By using a PDF-to-Word conversion tool, you can easily edit and share the information contained in the PDF without exposing it to potential cyber threats.
- Keep your software up to date
One of the simplest strategies for protecting your business from cybersecurity threats is to ensure that all of your software is up to date. This includes everything from your operating system to the apps on your phone.
Norton notes that developers regularly release updates that include security patches for known vulnerabilities, so it’s essential to install these updates as soon as they’re available. You can usually set most software to update automatically, but it’s still a good idea to occasionally check for updates manually just to be sure.
Also, it’s worth investing in ultra-secure services like Tausight that are bolstered by real-time, situational PHI awareness platforms. This is especially vital in areas where patient or customer information and confidentiality is especially critical.
- Be careful about what you click on and download
When you’re browsing the web or checking your email, you must be cautious about what you click on and download. Veracode points out that hackers can embed malicious code in links and attachments that can give them access to your system if you’re not careful. If you’re ever unsure about a link or attachment, err on the side of caution and don’t click on it or download it until you can verify that it’s safe.
- Respond appropriately if you’re attacked
If your business is the victim of a cyberattack, it’s essential to take steps to mitigate the damage. Here are a few things you can do:
- Report the attack to your IT department or service provider immediately.
- Change your passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
- Scan your system for malware and viruses.
- Restore your system from a recent backup.
- Contact your insurance company if you have cyber liability insurance.
Taking these steps will help minimize the attack’s impact on your business.
Wrapping Up
A single cyberattack could completely derail all of your hard work in an instant. In other words, bolstering security should be at the top of your mind when running a business.
By taking some simple precautions like using strong passwords and keeping your software up-to-date, you can help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of a cyberattack. So don’t wait — start beefing up your cybersecurity today!
Need help to formulate plans you can implement when an unexpected business interruption occurs? Discenza Business Continuity Solutions is your go-to solution. Connect with us today to learn more! 203-305-1299
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