Cyber crime is one of the biggest threats facing UK businesses today, costing around £30 billion a year. As a result, it’s something businesses need to start taking seriously!
The only problem is that many businesses are still unaware of how to go about implementing cyber security measures.
With the latest cyber threats constantly evolving, how can you stay on top of them? Here are some tips on how to safeguard your business against cyber crime.
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Understand What You’re Up Against
How secure are your systems? Before taking any other action, a cyber security audit will help you understand where you currently stand, as well as inform you of any measures you need to implement.
The world of cyber crime is constantly changing. While the well-known threats, such as hacking, are important to watch out for, there are other forms of cyber crime that you might not be aware of. Consider both internal and external sources!
Old scams often resurface with new variants, such as spear phishing, which easily go unnoticed if you don’t know what you’re looking for.
So, it pays to stay up to date with the latest cyber threats. Knowing what threats are out there can help you safeguard against them.
When it comes to securing your SME, there’s a lot to think about, such as:
- Updating your operating systems, as the latest software usually contains security fixes
- Backing up your data regularly
- Protecting smartphones and tablets
- Reviewing your password policy
- Installing malware
- Ensuring home devices are protected. An employee using an infected device at work can be just as problematic as a hacker!
The list of threats can seem endless, but keeping on top of it can help you protect your business.
Implement a Security Plan
Once your risk assessment is complete, it’s time to put together a detailed plan.
It’s up to you to both implement this plan, and ensure all employees are made aware of it. From management to outside contractors, anyone associated with your business should be on board with your security measures!
Let your employees know they play a vital role in keeping your business safe from the online world. Explain the threats you have identified, and what you’re doing about them. Aim to establish a security-conscious mindset in the workplace!
Be particularly diligent when it comes to passwords. Compromised user credentials, such as stolen passwords, are an enormous threat to your business’ security. Inform employees of the dangers of predictable passwords, and ensure all passwords are stored away from the device.
Having a security plan in place doesn’t mean you need to stop monitoring malicious content and filtering out any unauthorised access. Any knowledge of unusual activity will help you safeguard against threats!
Use Security Solutions
Cyber crime is an overwhelming topic. But, the good news is that there’s a lot of help out there.
For example, the government-backed Cyber Essentials scheme can help you prevent up to 80% of all potential attacks.
CylancePROTECT is another solution that blocks advanced cyberattacks, including fileless attacks and malware.
So, while it can be daunting, there are schemes out there to ensure your business stays protected.
Be Proactive Not Reactive
When it comes to cyber crime, assume you’ll be hacked.
Every business is a potential victim of a cyber attack, therefore this approach is forward-thinking rather than pessimistic!
Have a policy in place for how your business would deal with a cyber attack. This way, if the worst were to happen, you’ll be prepared.
Consider factors such as:
- How would your business cope with a period of down time?
- Are you backing up vital business data?
- How secure is your customer data?
- How many employees have administrative access?
- Do you have appropriate insurance in place?
Taking this proactive approach will help you reduce the impact a cyber attack would have on your business.
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