A cyber threat is a malicious act that attempts to steal, damage, or disrupt digital data. It involves data breaches, computer viruses, denial of service attacks, or any other means for unauthorized access to your network. Cyber-attack is a risk that is increasing every day. It does not only affect huge companies but small-medium sized enterprises (SMEs) as well. The SMEs are easier targets as they are perceived to have less data protection. The pieces of information that attackers may obtain include client and customer details, bank details, or a customer’s system that’s linked to e-commerce. According to the Department for Business, Innovation, and Skills, about 74 percent of small-medium sized enterprises reported a security breach.
Malware, ransomware, and phishing are common types of cyber threats against SMEs. However, cyber-related losses may come from within. There are instances of employees unintentionally misuse data which can lead to damage to valuable information. The same goes for when you click an email or opens an attachment. You’re permitting hackers to access sensitive data.
There are fundamental steps that SMEs can take to better protect their businesses from hackers and fraudsters:
Back-Up your Data
It’s easier to recover lost information from your business’s website if you practice backing up your data. Backing up data using a portable device (like USB) or an external drive can help you safeguard your most important data and information. Typically, a good back-up method may include:
· Day-to-day incremental backups to cloud storage or portable device
· Weekly server back-up
· Quarterly server back-ups
· Yearly server back-ups
Make it a habit to store a portable device in a separate and secure place and remove any connected device from your computer to avoid being infected by any virus.
Secure Devices and Network
Updates may contain viruses and threats so make sure you update so make sure to have a program that updates your operating system and software. If you have a scheduled update, don’t ignore them as these are necessary for fixing serious security problems. Several hacking instances relied on businesses that have not updated their software.
Computers and devices infected with viruses and malware pose a higher risk to your security and will harm your business. Install security software on your laptops, computers, smartphones, and tablets to prevent infection. SMEs are discouraged from using free or lite versions. Discussing this issue with companies offering IT support and services is a wise investment. Don’t settle for anything less. An extra expense that will give ultimate protection to your enterprise is a wise investment.
Guide and Train Your Staff to be Vigilant
Make your staff understand their responsibilities and the effects of their actions when they don’t take cybersecurity policy seriously. The Majority of security concerns were committed out of ignorance and no deliberate intent. Precautionary measures should be practiced when they share data, computers and devices, emails, and internet sites. Provide an environment to learn and educate them on issues like maintaining a strong password, identifying a cyber threat, and how to avoid them.
There is no such thing as a perfect system. Glitches do happen. However, do not be too complacent because it may be a potential cyberattack. Protect your business and take preventive measures to keep it secure.
