Lock It Up: Tools and Tips for Strengthening Cybersecurity for Your Business
As the business day comes to a close, millions of doors get locked -- literally. From overhead gates to basic office doors, business owners rarely think twice about inserting keys or tapping in codes to protect from physical intrusion.
But entry doors aren’t the only places where intruders can gain access. With business now routinely conducted over telecommunications networks and digital devices, the idea of what it means to lock up the shop has changed dramatically. Cyberattacks,” ranging from password-stealing to phony invoicing, account for billions of dollars in losses every year in the U.S.
A comprehensive report published by IBM found the average cost of a business data breach now exceeds $4 million. What’s more, scammers often like to target small and medium-sized businesses, figuring they’re less likely to have sturdy safeguards in place compared to large enterprises.
Because of the scope of risk, implementing a cybersecurity strategy is just as important as any deadbolt on any door. Which means the time to jump in is…now.
Find Your Business Providers.
The good news is that a range of cybersecurity features may already be at your fingertips -- and on your devices. Many cable telecommunications companies integrate security features into their mainstay business Wi-Fi and Internet plans. So, if you’re connected to a high-speed cable Internet service, chances are you’re already warding off some of the cyber threats.
Besides monitoring network traffic to fend off intrusions, some Internet providers also offer additional operating system and desktop security features like detection and prevention of viruses, malware, hacker attacks, and more.
A quick look at your provider’s business Internet plan descriptions can tell you more about its antivirus software, multi-factor authentication, and other incident response measures that may already be in place or available.
But even with safeguards built into your business Internet service, cybersecurity breaches can still occur. Intrusions like phishing attacks (cleverly disguised messages appearing to come from legitimate business partners) can find their way into your inbox regardless of whether you’re running the latest firewall or endpoint protection.
Lax password-management practices can also put your business at risk for ransomware and other violators. Leaving laptops or devices unattended can also leave you exposed to cyber criminals.
What’s an always-occupied business owner to do? A good starting place: various resources on Cybersecurity Tips for Small Businesses – including the FCC report on “Ten Cybersecurity Tips for Small Businesses” as well as “Tips to Keep Your Home Networks Safe for Remote Workers.” These resources can help get you started putting into place a comprehensive business risk management program, addressing everything from physical device security (lock up those laptops!) to tips about isolating your sensitive information and critical data. A separate FCC page includes links to resources providing free or low-cost security safeguards and helpful information.
Implementing a comprehensive risk assessment plan may seem like work, but it’s an important part of protecting the business you’re working hard to build. The good news is that tools and solution partners are out there to help you along the way. For example, this free online cyber-planning tool can help streamline the process for large to small business owners.
Remember that a properly prepared business can dramatically reduce risk, and keep your business growing, no matter what the bad guys come up with next. Visit these proven providers to find out more about what information systems and cybersecurity resources are available now as part of your Internet connection.