Saving your business from hackers

Today small businesses are being impacted more frequently than large organizations, primarily because hackers know small business owners most often fail to implement the security needed for their computers, data transfer systems, and email. Some choose to keep rolling the dice with their security and wait until they either get infected or incur data loss to start paying attention.

Small businesses rarely have the budget to have an in-house cyber-security specialist on a payroll. This is why it is very important to deal with a trusted I.T. company that can help businesses of any size obtain the right solutions to minimize threats from outside hackers.

Anti-virus is not enough.

Viruses are designed to gain and allow access to computers and provide that access to unknown users across the globe. They can open a backdoor to all the computers in your business. Viruses can be downloaded from links, emails, and attached to many free software`s or games found on the internet. But wait there`s more...

A new key cybersecurity tool is Anti-spyware software.  this software detects applications that are trying to steal your data.  When downloaded, the spyware hides in your system, then collects data primarily keystrokes. It detects password changes, computer settings, and can even redirect browser searches.  Without Anti-spyware protection your computer can be infected and you would have no idea. Spyware is designed to spy, collect and transmit your data without your knowledge.

Nothing is free on the internet, Even the smallest bit of information and usage data is valuable to hundreds of companies. This also applies to all the "Free" Apps available for your phone as well.

Do you have a firewall?

A proper firewall is key in helping protect all systems behind it and also managing internet access for users (content filtering). It`s basically a filter that is configured to either allow or deny access to certain websites and / or services.  Want to control what your employees can see while they're at your office? A firewall is the answer, but it is not a device you can set in place and forget. There is NO such security device that does not require monitoring. With proper monitoring in place, you are ensuring that your data and systems are being actively reviewed for threats.

The human element

Not only is it important to have the right software and hardware in place to protect your systems. Business owners should also provide insight to employees about cybersecurity and the office policies in place to help protect internal information. At least some of the basics, like knowing how to spot and recognize fishing or spearfishing techniques. Unfortunately, we've gotten to the point where legit looking emails can trick employees into providing help with information needed for a successful attack.

Personally, I help offices daily providing insight into their level of compliance and security. Sadly, the majority of the offices I visit have no idea how exposed they really are, many even from the parking lot via WiFi. Get protected, & keep your data safe.