Cybercrime is the fastest-growing crime and continues to adversely impact businesses across all sectors. Today’s cybercriminals have become more sophisticated. They know how to cover their tracks, hide in the cloud, manipulate web infrastructure, and exploit vulnerabilities. So, the actions you and your employee take, or don’t, can make a huge difference in protecting your data, network, and systems from the effects of cyber attackers. 

In this article, we propose top cybersecurity tips and best practices that you can adopt to protect your business. 

TOP CYBERSECURITY BEST PRACTICES

Firewall Protection 

Setting up firewall protection can go a long way in preventing cyberattacks. Firewalls provide a barrier between your data and cybercriminals. It prevents them from accessing your website, emails, data, and systems. So, make sure your firewall is well set up and enabled at all times. Also, ensure employees working remotely have installed a firewall on their networks. 

Train and Educate Employees

The biggest threat to your security is your employees. One simple mistake from an untrained employee can cause your entire security system to crumble. So, make sure your team is well-trained, educated, in sync, and exercising security practices at all times. 

Keep Software Up-To-Date 

Software vendors provide updates for three key reasons – add features, fix bugs, and strengthen security. Therefore, if you’re not using the latest version, you might be exposing yourself to attacks.  

Use Quality Anti-Virus Software 

 Malware attacks are currently the leading forms of cyberattacks. It’s also difficult to be completely protected from malware as long as you’re connected to the web. However, the best anti-virus and anti-malware software can go a long way in reducing vulnerabilities. 

Safeguard and Backup Sensitive Data 

Ensure important data is well-protected and appropriately backup up using managed data backup solutions. Continuous data backup is crucial in restoring operations after an imminent attack. 

Create a Strong Password Policy 

Enforce a culture of strong password policies and practices for all members of your organization. ensure the following strong password practices are well reflected in your policy:

• Long passwords 
• Mix characters 
• Change password regularly 
• Use password manager 

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication 

Multi-factor authentication helps add an extra layer of protection. This is to ensure that even if a hacker grabs your passwords, they’d be required to verify themselves using OTP, security code, fingerprint, voice code, or other authentication factors before accessing your system. 

Include Mobile Devices in Security Policy 

If you allow bringing your own device (BYOD) into your organization, it would be wise to have a documented BYOD policy that focuses on certain security precautions. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities on these devices to breach your network and systems. 

Keep Your Cybersecurity Knowledge Current 

Cybersecurity is always changing as new updates come in response to evolving and emerging threats. So, make sure you’re constantly updated on various cybersecurity topics such as risk assessment, threats, risk mitigation, and the like to plan, prevent, or prepare for potential attacks. 

Plan for Compromises 

Cybercrime is complex, meaning breaches and other security incidences are inevitable, especially for small businesses. it’s wise to prepare for possible attacks to reduce the amount of damage and bounce back to normal operations. 

How Thinline Tech Can Help 

Cybersecurity is a moving target. So, as cybercriminals get more advanced, taking responsibility for your security and staying on top of the latest trends and new protection measures is crucial. However, as a small business owner, you’re always competing against time and operating on a limited budget. Having the time and resources that guarantee a strong defense against cyber threats can be a challenge. 

This is where Thinline Tech comes in. If you’re looking for an affordable cybersecurity solution tailored to your business and lets you focus on growing your business, we’re here to help. 

Write to us or call us at (410) 453-9300 for a free consultation.