Digital platforms have given companies more opportunities to be noticed, expand and achieve greater sustainability.
Companies can now reach more customers, increase their market share and penetrate global markets. But because the online space offers more opportunities for companies to grow and become more profitable, it also exposes them to cyber security threats.
According to research, several companies around the world have experienced some form of cyber-attack.
Despite the debilitating effect of safety threats on businesses, not all business owners understand how to protect their businesses from security risks or increase their online security. In this post, we suggest 5 techniques that entrepreneurs can use to promote safety within their organizations.
Do a Risk Analysis
Interruptions in operations can have major consequences. As a result, it is important to go through what information the company depends on and how it is protected. The company’s most important information can include anything from the company’s accounting, business information, customer information, and customer registers to development plans.
Also, think about how dependent the business is on the internet. How long can you go without a connection? What information needs to be accurate and reliable in all situations?
Prevent Unauthorized Access Information
One of the main risks your organization may face is unauthorized access to important data and information. This includes, but is not limited to, malicious code, phishing, hacking, and advanced malware. To protect your business, you need to have certain frameworks in place, like compliance with legislation and regular audits.
For example, if your company cooperates with federal agencies, you will need to be FISMA compliant. The Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) is legislation designed to protect government information and assets from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, modification, disruption, or destruction. So, FISMA compliance demonstrates that your organization is capable of safeguarding government information and assets.
First, you should determine the security category of your organization’s information system to comply with this legislation. If you wish to achieve compliance, you must conduct a FISMA audit and as soon as it is completed, a report will provide you with independent third-party verification related to the fairness and suitability of controls concerning information security and practices.
Use Strong Passwords
Passwords provide access to your system, so pay close attention to them and make sure they’re strong enough to secure your operations. A strong password consists of uppercase and lowercase letters combined with numbers and special symbols which makes them harder to crack.
In addition, your password should be unique and unpredictable. Use a group of letters and words that aren’t related, but that you can easily remember when you need to. Furthermore, you should never share your password or other information that could allow access to your business via email without having it encrypted.
Encryption converts information into a secret code that external agents cannot crack. It reduces the risk of theft due to the format they convert the assets to.
Update Security Software
The quality of your software determines the effectiveness of your security system. Outdated software increases the chances that your business will be exposed to cyber-attacks and become a target for cybercriminals. So, to protect your business from security risks, consistently update your software to the latest version.
You can make the updating process easier by setting up your programs to automatically upgrade so that they can install updated versions by themselves and make it harder for cyber criminals to infiltrate your security system.
Security Alarm
Although most people go to work without the thought that bad things can happen, it is not uncommon for safety to be tested from time to time. It can be anything from direct robbery attempts to threats or attacks taking place at work. As a business owner, it’s important to be able to offer a safe and secure environment for those who stay on the premises. A good company alarm is something you should consider.
An alarm with strategically planned cameras reduces the risk of burglary. If you invest in a corporate security alarm, you can significantly reduce your property insurance. Many insurance companies offer a discount to companies with alarm systems.
In addition, a company alarm shows that you care about your employees and their security at work, which is a smart step towards a positive work environment.
Conclusion
Increasing the security and safety of your business is crucial to your overall success. A safe organization will save you from getting a bad reputation or suffering financial losses.
With just a few simple steps like the ones described above, you can increase your company’s safety and run a business that’s immune to cyber-attacks and other forms of security risks. Keep in mind the ideas mentioned as you plan and prepare.
