Safeguard your small business: a rapid guide for essential cybersecurity
As owner of a small business, he has a lot on his dish. From administering daily operations to monitoring their results, cybersecurity may not be at the forefront of your mind. However, in the current digital age, ignoring cybersecurity can have devastating consequences for your business. In this publication, developed from our series of cybersecurity work sheets, we will highlight five critical cybersecurity problems: WiFi not guaranteed, authentication of two factors, malware, ransomware and internal threats) and why they should care.
WiFi not guaranteed
Wi -Fi passwords are annoying, why should one have? The unusual wifi may seem convenient, but it is a gold mine for computer pirates. They can use techniques such as the olfateo of the network to intercept confidential data or configure dishod hot points (known as pineapples) to imitate legitimate networks and steal information. This is what you can do to protect your business:
- Use connections with cable when possible to reduce the risk of smelling.
- Keep your updated router firmware to avoid vulnerabilities (see This link) for guidance).
- Change the predetermined routine user names and passwords, since the attackers commonly know.
Two factors authentication
At a time when attackers can decipher passwords in seconds, trusting only them is a recipe for disaster. The authentication of two factors (2FA) adds an additional security layer, which makes it incredibly challenging for hackers to violate their accounts. It requires that you provide two or more tests to obtain access, such as a password and a code of a text message or application of authenticator. Here is why 2FA is essential:
- Passwords alone are no longer enough to ensure their accounts.
- 65% of people use the same password in multiple accounts, making them vulnerable.
- 2FA acts as a strong deterrent, forces attackers to move on to easier objectives.
Malware
Malware is a wide category of malicious software that can wreak havoc on your computers and data. Common types include ransomware, spyware, viruses, worms and Trojan horses. To prevent malware attacks:
- Regularly update your systems, software and applications.
- Issue your data to keep them safe.
- Make a backup of your data regularly and keep it offline.
- Educate your employees through security awareness training.
- Control physical access to your computers and limit employee privileges.
Ransomware
Ransomware is a particularly threatening and growing form of malware. It blocks it from its devices and demands a rescue for the release of your data. Any business that uses computers is at risk. To avoid ransomware attacks:
- Scan your computers regularly with antivirus software.
- Make a backup of your data frequently and keep them offline.
- Do not ignore software updates; They often contain vital security patches.
- Implement 2FA to mitigate the risk of password leaks.
- Limit administrative privileges for employees to the essential.
In case of an attack:
- Quarantine infected machines to avoid propagation.
- Eliminate malware, change passwords and evaluate rape.
- Inform your employees and customers.
- Contact your insurance agent if applicable.
- Plan your response strategy based on the situation.
Internal threats
Internal threats are people within their organization that represent a safety risk, such as employees, contractors or partners. These threats may have serious financial and reputation consequences. Protect your business by:
- Limit employees access to data based on the principle of privilege.
- Implementation of strict outboard processes to prevent malicious actions.
- Provide security training to your staff.
- Regularly record your data to prepare for the worst scenarios.
Take measures today
Do not wait until a cyber incident paralishes your small company. Prioritize cybersecurity by implementing these measures and seeking assistance when necessary. If you are not sure where to start or need an expert guidance, contact the small businesses center for their assistance. Contact us in sbdc@scranton.edu o (570) 941-7588 to obtain a copy of our cybersecurity work sheets, which will help him guide him on this trip.
Remember, in the digital age, cybersecurity is not an option; It is a necessity. Protect your small business and your future taking proactive steps today.
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