Website security is vital to the success of businesses and their longevity. Without a secure system, your valuable information can be compromised in a malicious cyber attack. Both small and large businesses can be the victim to data theft and cybercriminals. Your business can take proactive measures and build a cybersecurity plan to protect your business's (and customers') valuable data and information.
Here are a few measures your business can take to combat cyber attacks and protect your business and customers from some of the most common mistakes website owners make in terms of cybersecurity.
Business Mistake #1: Not scheduling regular data backups on a physical drive or cloud storage software
In the event that you are denied access to your company’s data or experience data loss from a cyber attack, you will feel the consequences of not backing up your data proactively.
You should consider backing up your important files and information onto a physical drive or cloud storage software to prevent impacting your company’s bottom line and reputation; encouraging customer lawsuits; and company setbacks.
Business Mistake #2: Not holding a training seminar for new employees or updating employee training
Without proper training, your employees' lack of knowledge can be a direct entry point for cyber attacks and damage to your company. New employees can learn the importance of protecting company data, managing documents, accepting email, using strong passwords, and internet use through company training. You can also consider holding brief company meetings to address company updates to keep your processes uniform in the event changes occur.
Business Mistake #3: Not updating and protecting your system with anti-malware software
Protect your system with anti-malware software and update it regularly to identify the latest network threats and prevent malicious cyber attacks or neutralize computer viruses, worms, ransomware, etc. This is a fairly simple yet overlooked task that can make a difference in your security efforts.
Business Mistake #4: Not utilizing multi-factor authentication when accessing company data
An easy way to add additional security is to require employees to access your company data, email, etc. with multi-factor authentication (MFA). For example, an employee will need to input a specific code sent to another phone or email before entering the system. Be sure to remind employees to sign out before closing company applications, documents, email, etc.
Business Mistake #5: Not using a strong password or updating password regularly
Taking the time to construct strong passwords can go a long way. You can consider implementing a password policy for employees. Strong passwords are typically changed every 90 days and utilize a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols that are not easy to guess. Avoid using default passwords when accessing payment platforms as well, since users are given access through a service menu which can be manipulated.
Business Mistake #6: Not limiting backend access to authorized users only
Backend access should only be given to the appropriate users. In addition to limiting access on the business side, you should remind clients to refrain from granting backend access to unknown users. A website design company will often limit access to web developers and necessary team managers, this includes access to integrated commerce technology platforms.
Business Mistake #7: Not utilizing virtual private networks (VPNs)
A VPN helps mask your IP address and internet activity which makes it hard for others to monitor. Using public Wi-Fi can put your data at risk and make you more vulnerable to an attack.
Business Mistake #8: Not having a recovery plan in place in the event of a malicious attack
The greatest mistake you can make is underestimating the potential damage of a cyber attack and not having a plan in place. To resume your operations after a malicious attack, your recovery plan should address how your company will increase your security, notify the necessary parties, and finish necessary tasks that no longer have data.
By avoiding these eight mistakes you and your employees can practice good internet habits to prevent cybersecurity attacks from occurring, losing valuable company data, and dealing with the aftermath of a data breach.
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