ITsupportlondon

Many small business owners believe that cyber security is a major challenge, which they cannot overcome in a cost-efficient manner. However, according to IT support experts, it is always the opposite. There are clever tips that small businesses can follow, to ensure they are safe. The following guide aims to shed some light on these tips. 

• Backing up data – as a small business owner, you probably rely on critical data – customer details, orders, quotes and payment details. Operating without them is unthinkable. That is why you need to take steps to ensure you backup your data frequently. That way you can restore crucial information in the case of fire, flood, theft or some sort of physical damage. Keep the backup separate from the main computer and consider using cloud services. An IT support company can provide further details on how you can achieve all of this efficiently and cost-effectively. 
  
  
• Protection from malware – malicious software or malware is web content or software that can seriously harm your company. You need to have anti-virus software. Office equipment usually comes protected with such software with their OS, but you may need to install it for tablets and smartphones. You need to educate your staff to not install dodgy apps. It is important to keep your equipment up to date with the latest versions of antivirus software. 
  
  
• Keep smartphones and tablets safe – speaking of these devices, you need to make sure that the data on them is safe at all times. Because they can often leave the premises of the office and the home you work from, you need more than just baseline protection for them. A complex PIN and a way to track stolen devices are two basic steps you can take in regards to protection. Make sure you don’t connect to random unknown wi-fi hotspots. 
  
  
• Use strong passwords to protect your data – all of your devices contain important business data and information that is essential to your work. All of it needs to be available only to you and not any unauthorised user. To that end, you have to implement the proper passwords. This is a free way to make sure only the right people have access to your data. Using two-factor authentication is a good idea for any important accounts.
  
  Avoid predictable passwords and make sure you implement a schedule for changing passwords regularly. When you acquire devices for the first time, make sure you change the default passwords they come with. This should happen before you distribute the devices to your staff. Make sure you check the devices regularly, to guarantee they have not changed their passwords. 
  
  
• Stay on top of phishing attacks – phishing is when scammers send out many emails to a big number of people, in hopes of getting sensitive information out of them. They can trick the victim into sending money, stealing details or have other motives to access your company information. Regardless, you need to take some proactive steps to reduce phishing attacks. Ensure that your staff is well-educated and knows what to report if need be. Attackers typically rely on publicly available information about your company, to make phishing messages. You need to understand what your clients need to know and what details you share with them on your website, to reduce the risk. 
  
  

All of these cyber-security tips work well to reduce the impact of potential cyber-attacks on a small business. Make sure you implement them, to have peace of mind. 

© Our Tech Team