Cyber threats are steadily increasing, especially because many businesses have been transitioning from in-office to remote work. In fact, a study from the University of Maryland reports that a cyberattack occurs every 39 seconds on average.
Cyberattacks not only have the potential to cause businesses major financial hardship but also can do irreparable damage to a company’s reputation and make full recovery nearly impossible.
So what steps can you take to put up a solid defense against these attackers? Read on and learn how to protect your business from cyber threats.
Be Cautious About Public Wi-Fi
With so many employees opting for full- or part-time remote work, unsecure networks aren’t a threat to be ignored. Be wary of using public Wi-Fi networks in places like hotels, coffee shops and other places outside the office.
These networks can be extra vulnerable to cyber threats, so avoid accessing sensitive company information or using tools that expose important company data. While working from home, ensure your network is secure and gives you the best protection possible.
Install and Update Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software
Although it’s easy to hit “ignore” when one of those update messages pops up, regularly updating your antivirus software is essential for your protection. AV-Test Institute reports that approximately 560,000 new pieces of malware are detected every day.
Good antivirus software contains the latest files needed to fight off new viruses and protect you and your company’s data and private information.
[Related: Are You at Risk? Here Are the Industries With the Highest Cyber Security Risks]
Choose Strong Passwords and Update Them Regularly
Poor or reused passwords are one of the main causes of data breaches and cyberattacks. Avoid weak and predictable passwords by including a mix of numbers, letters and special characters and by never reusing passwords for multiple logins.
Consider adding multi-factor authentication (MFA) so that even if your password is breached, you have other layers of protection. MFA can reduce security breaches by up to 99.9% over passwords alone.
Use Cloud Backups
Cloud backups (also known as software-as-a-service or SaaS) are a great way to ensure you won’t lose your data if your physical device is compromised. Most cloud-based companies adhere to strict ISO standards and are subject to regular security audits. You can rest easy knowing they provide the utmost levels of security for the companies they serve.
[Related: 6 Signs Your Business Has Been Hacked]
Organize Cybersecurity Awareness Training Programs
Your employees are your first defense against cybersecurity threats. Organize ongoing cybersecurity awareness training sessions so that your workers know what to be on the lookout for and how to respond. A solid training program should make your employees confident in the best practices regarding cyber threats.
[Related: 10 Eye-Opening Data Loss and Recovery Statistics]
Partner With CMIT Solutions of Bothell
Cybersecurity should be a priority for your business, but you shouldn’t have to manage it alone. Also keep in mind that understanding the signs that your business might have been hacked is crucial for timely intervention.
Partnering with an IT professional like CMIT Solutions of Bothell can help solidify your security and protect your business from a variety of threats. We partner with companies in a wide range of industries to provide around-the-clock maintenance and IT support so you can focus on what matters — growing your business and connecting with your customers.
CMIT Solutions is ready to help. Contact us today, and let’s get started.
Featured image via Pixabay
