Cybersecurity Checklist
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Section 1: CARE (Culture, Awareness, Reporting, Engagement)
Foster a culture of alertness
Treat information as a critical resource, like money or facilities. Executives set the tone by showing they care about security.Build continuous awareness
Keep security top of mind with regular reminders, quick huddles, or training refreshers. Make it part of everyday business, not a once-a-year task.Encourage reporting
Make it simple and safe for employees to report suspicious activity. Consider incentives to reward people who raise potential issues.Engage leadership
Executives should speak openly about the value of information and model good security
behavior. When leadership cares, teams follow.
Section 2: Access & Authentication
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Add a second layer of security to logins using a code, app, or device.Require strong, unique passwords
Avoid reused or weak passwords like “admin123.” Use long combinations with letters,
numbers, and symbols.Use a password manager
Simplify password storage and sharing with a secure tool that your team can access safely.Remove old or unused user accounts
Deactivate access for former employees or unused services to reduce risk.Review admin access levels
Confirm that only the right people have full control over systems and settings.
Section 3: Backups & Recovery
Back up critical business data weekly
Create regular backups of your most important files, such as customer info or financial records.Store backups in a secure, encrypted location
Use cloud storage or offline devices that are protected against theft or tampering.Test backup restore functionality
Make sure you can actually recover your files if needed — don’t wait for a crisis to find out.Identify who is responsible for backups
Assign a team member to own this task and check in regularly.
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Section 4: Updates & Patching
Turn on automatic software and OS updates
Let devices update in the background so you don’t miss important security fixes.Audit devices for outdated systems
Look for older machines or apps that may no longer receive updates.Replace unsupported or vulnerable hardware
If a device can’t be secured, it may be time to retire or replace it.Schedule regular tech check-ins
Block off time each quarter to review your systems and spot risks early.
Section 5: Team Awareness & Training
Schedule a phishing awareness refresh
Teach your team how to spot suspicious emails and messages.Share a “how to report a scam” process
Make it easy and expected to report anything that seems off.Conduct a short cyber hygiene huddle (15 min)
Hold a quick meeting to go over common scams and simple safety steps.Assign one person to watch for suspicious activity
Designate someone to flag login alerts, odd emails, or system warnings.
Section 6: Business Continuity & Planning
Create a simple response plan
Outline what to do if your systems are hacked, including who to call and how to respond.Identify go-to contacts for tech support
List the vendors, IT providers, or advisors you can reach out to quickly.Document key tools, contacts, and access info
Keep a printed or offline copy of system logins and essential information.Review cybersecurity insurance (if applicable)
If you have coverage, know what’s included and how to use it.
