As cyber threats continue to rise, now is an important time to review your business’ security posture. A single data breach could have devastating consequences to your finances, operations, and reputation, making it more crucial than ever to locate and address any vulnerabilities that exist. Fortunately, there are simple security solutions that can help you avoid cyber threats and protect your business.
1. Strengthen Passwords
Passwords are your first line of defence against cyber-attacks, and yet many employees still fail to use best practices. This is often due to the difficulty of remembering dozens of unique, strong passwords. To encourage better password practices:
- Teach employees to use complex, long passwords.
- If they struggle with letter/symbol/number combinations, suggest using a ‘passphrase’ – a long string of random words. These can be easier to remember without sacrificing security.
- If necessary, invest in a password manager so that employees don’t need to fear being locked out of accounts.
2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA asks for multiple forms of verification before allowing personnel to access sensitive accounts, preventing threat actors from using stolen credentials. Typically, MFA will call for:
- Something you know (such as a password)
- Something you have (such as a badge or mobile device)
- Something you are (such as a fingerprint or face scan)
MFA should be enabled wherever possible to reduce the risk of unauthorised access.
3. Watch for Phishing Attacks
Phishing scams are one of the easiest ways for cybercriminals to access sensitive data. These appear to be a legitimate attempt at contact, but are secretly trying to convince staff to click a link or divulge information. To prevent phishing scams:
- Run cyber security awareness training programs.
- Check for warning signs such as spelling errors, strange email addresses, suspicious links, or a sense of urgency.
- Always verify information independently before responding.
4. Keep Software Updated
Software updates often include patches for known vulnerabilities that threat actors might exploit. Ignoring these can leave you exposed. Enable automatic updates for your operating system, apps, and antivirus software, to remove the element of human error and keep the attack surface small.
5. Be Cautious on Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient – many workers have enjoyed a coffee at their favourite cafe while completing tasks – but this can be dangerous. These networks are usually unsecured, and easily accessed by threat actors. If you must work on a public network, avoid accessing sensitive accounts or completing risky tasks such as financial transactions. Consider using security solutions such as a VPN.
6. Educate Your Team and Yourself
Human error is one of the most common causes of a data breach. Regular cyber security awareness training can help reduce this risk, by keeping your staff aware of current threats and best practices. Training should include:
- Advice for spotting phishing scams
- Cyber security policies and procedures
- Steps for reporting a potential cyber threat
7. Regularly Backup Data
Data backups are your business’ best defence against ransomware attacks, natural disasters, and power outages. They ensure that even if your systems are compromised, you can recover important information with minimal disruption. Follow these best practices:
- Perform backups regularly, or automate where possible.
- Keep at least three copies. Two of these should be offsite, and one should be in the cloud.
- Verify that you are able to restore data correctly if necessary.
8. Monitor Accounts for Suspicious Activity
Even the strongest security solutions in the world cannot prevent all cyber-attacks. Regular reviews of online and financial accounts can help you spot unusual activity that might indicate a threat, allowing your IT staff to respond quickly and minimise damage. Threat detection solutions exist that can automate parts of this process for you, if needed.
Need more information? Learn about the ACSC’s Essential 8 Maturity Model
Secure Your Business for a Safer Future
Cyber security is an ongoing journey, not a one-time fix. By implementing robust security solutions, following best practices, and staying updated on the latest threats, you can protect your business from cyber threats and reduce the risk of a data breach. Taking proactive steps to strengthen your security posture will not only safeguard your company today, but will also ensure resilience against future threats.
Itopia is ready to keep your business and data safe, with advanced cyber security solutions designed to shield you from the most dangerous threats out there. Explore our security services today, and learn how you can achieve a safer future.
Adam leads the Itopia team in Brisbane, helping professional-services firms get secure, productive and confident with their technology, in plain English.