5 Online Business Security Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
If you run a business, you need to secure your data from cyber attackers. If you don’t take precautions and develop a plan, you jeopardize your employees’ online safety and finances. You’re better off learning how to arm yourself with the best digital security tools.
Read on to learn about 5 online business security mistakes and how to avoid them!
1. Don’t Avoid Regular Software Updates
It may seem annoying when your computer tells you to do a software update. But you’d be wise to do it rather than punting it down the road. Those software updates help prevent hackers from preying on your data.
You should budget for the latest software in your business plan to help with protecting business data. Additionally, updates can fix bugs that emerged during previous versions of the software. Most importantly, they safeguard against common cyber threats.
2. Poor Passwords Put Your Business at Risk
It may be easier to choose your dog or favorite sibling as a password. But doing this makes it far too easy for hackers to get into your accounts. Complexity is key when it comes to password selection.
Aim for passwords that blend characters, numbers, and letters. Also, aim to incorporate lower and upper case letters. Passwords that are at least 8 characters in length will be a harder challenge for hackers.
Update your passwords every few months. And don’t use the same password to provide access to multiple accounts.
3. Online Business Security Mistakes Include Using Unprotected WiFi
When you or your employees work remotely on a winter day, how do they access critical documents and websites? If they’re using public WiFi at the local coffee shop or at your office, that’s a problem. You need to make the move toward a protected internet connection.
While you’re at it, make sure that your company’s website has encryption and HTTPS. This means that any data sent within the company site is protected from common cyber threats.
4. Avoid Clicking on Unknown Links
One of the easiest mistakes to make is clicking on a link that you think is legitimate. Hackers can construct emails that appear to come from a familiar source at first glance. They may include a link or ask you to disclose sensitive financial or personal information.
Any email that asks you to do this should be a red flag. Even if the email looks like it came from an official person, call the person and verify the request.
5. Don’t Save Money By Forgoing IT Specialists
If you don’t know much about cyber threats, you need someone who does have that skill set on your team. Hiring out the responsibilities of developing a cybersecurity strategy will pay off in the long run. So, don’t think you can save money by trying to safeguard your business data yourself.
You can use protective software to provide one level of security. But that alone may not prevent a breach. A cybersecurity expert can find the holes and help you create a plan for protecting business data.
Get the Right Digital Security Tools
It’s easy to neglect common cyber threats when you’re busy running a business. But when you’re aware of common online business security mistakes, it’s easier to take measures to avoid them. Invest in strong software, create complex passwords, and secure your company’s website.
For more tech tips, check back for new articles.