The internet is the great equalizer when it comes to running a business. It has allowed even small operations to expand into new and more extensive markets that would have been unattainable in the past. But as companies embrace new technology like cloud computing, or establish e-commerce websites, they need to keep cybersecurity uppermost in their plans.
According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the theft of digital information has become the most commonly reported fraud, surpassing physical theft. This means that every business that uses the internet is responsible for creating a culture of security that will enhance itself and grow consumer confidence. Would you leave your brick-and-mortar store unlocked and vulnerable to a break in? Of course not, so why allow your online presence to be comprised?
The FCC has provided the following ten essential cybersecurity tips to protect your small business:
Train employees in security principles. Establish basic security practices and policies for your employees to follow, including strong passwords and appropriate internet-use guidelines, and detail penalties for violating company cybersecurity policies. Institute rules for handling and protecting customer information and other vital data.
Protect information, computers and networks from cyber-attacks. Rely on the latest security software, web browser and operating system for the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats. Set antivirus software to run a scan after each update. Install critical software updates as soon as they are available.
Provide firewall security for your internet connection. A firewall is a set of related programs that prevent outsiders from accessing data on a private network. If your employees work from home, require them to use a secure internet connection.
Create a mobile device action plan. Mobile devices can create significant security and management challenges, especially if they hold confidential information or can access the corporate network. Require users to password protect their devices, encrypt their data and install security apps to prevent criminals from stealing data while the device is on a public network. Be sure to set reporting procedures for lost or stolen equipment.
Make copies of critical business data and information. Back up all data as well on all computers on a regular basis—either offsite or in the cloud. Critical data includes word processing documents, electronic spreadsheets, databases, financial files, human resources files, and accounts receivable/payable records.
Control physical access to your computers. Only trusted IT staff members and key personnel should have administrative privileges. Make sure a separate user account is created for each employee and require strong passwords. Prevent access or use of business computers by unauthorized individuals. And lock up laptops and external hard drives that carry sensitive information.
Secure your workplace Wi-Fi networks. A Wi-Fi network should be encrypted and hidden. To hide your network, set up your wireless access point or router, so it doesn’t broadcast the network name, known as the Service Set Identifier (SSID). Password protect access to the router.
Employ best practices on payment cards. Ensure your processor is using the most trusted and validated anti-fraud tools in the industry. You may also have additional security obligations under agreements with your bank or processor. Isolate payment systems from other, less secure programs, and don’t use the same computer to process payments and surf the web.
Limit employee access to data and information, and limit authority to install software. Do not provide any one employee with access to all data systems. Employees should only be given access to the specific data systems that they need for their jobs, and should not be able to install any software without permission.
Require employees to use unique passwords and change passwords every three months. Consider implementing multifactor authentication that requires additional information beyond a password to gain entry. Check with your vendors that handle sensitive data, especially financial institutions, to see if they offer multifactor authentication for your account.
When it comes to cybersecurity, take the time and the effort to enforce the steps necessary to protect your business.
For more information, contact ProPay at 844.896.3209, email sales@propay.com or visit www.propay.com.