Start Up Security Basics

Your customers trust you, but are you sure your online business is secure?

Most relatively tech-savvy individuals know some things about internet security– use a firewall and run an antivirus, right? But businesses, whatever their size, have different needs than individuals, especially since you’re dealing with the sensitive financial information of a variety of people. As daily use of technology increases, these questions are even more critical. How do you make sure you don’t lose customers and hurt your reputation with a security breach?

Here’s a list of 10 easy, inexpensive things that you should be doing to make sure that your business is safe.

1. Update your operating system and your internet browser.

It seems basic, but failing to update your operating system and other critical programs can leave you exposed to threats that computer manufacturers and software developers have already taken care of. If your employees are using their own devices for work, it might be worthwhile to make sure that they’re regularly updating their software as well.

2. Protect against spyware, malware, and viruses.

You’re probably already doing this, but businesses have different security needs than individuals, so it’s worth it to check out this list of the best antivirus programs for businesses. Remember that these programs need updating too, since hackers are always coming up with new threats.

You also need to remind and/or educate your employees not to click any suspicious links, to never give out sensitive information in an email, and how to recognize phishing scams.

3. Make sure you’re using a firewall.

Firewalls are the first line of cyber defense, so you’re almost certainly already using them. However, you may not have known that firewalls can be not only software-based, but hardware-based as well. Here’s a guide on choosing the right firewall for your business.

4. Use encryption software for the information on your hardware.

If you are dealing with major credit card companies, you are probably already doing this, since they require it. If you aren’t, you should really consider it. Here’s a guide on how to encrypt almost anything.

5. Use a VPN.

A VPN (which stands for a Virtual Private Network) essentially creates a direct, secure, link from the source of the information to its destination. Making use of this option will actually help you in multiple ways, because it protects against a myriad of threats– hackers, malware, and viruses– while keeping financial information secure. It’s especially important if your employees are mobile and using unfamiliar sources of Wi-Fi, like those in airports and hotels.

Read this list of the best VPN providers for information about your choices.

6. Keep information need-to-know.

This one isn’t technological at all– it’s just common sense. Unfortunately, sometimes people aren’t as trustworthy as we’d like to believe, and of course everyone makes mistakes. By cutting down on the number of people who have access to sensitive information, including passwords, you can minimize the effect that any breach of security might have. Consider making sure that no single employee has access to all of your information.

7. Get rid of data when it’s no longer necessary. Get rid of equipment properly.

Once you take a look, you might be surprised how much information you have on file that you no longer need. Do some spring cleaning, and delete anything that hackers might want to get their hands on.

When getting rid of outdated computers and other devices that once held sensitive data, make sure they have been properly wiped of that data. You never know what could be recovered when the equipment is recycled. You can read how to properly do this here.

8. Pick strong passwords and change them often.

The rule with passwords is “longer is stronger.” If you’d like a review of the basics, have a look at this guide, which has a method that not only creates strong passwords, but ones you’ll be able to remember.

9. Secure your Wi-Fi network.

You can hide your Wi-Fi network by setting up your router so it doesn’t broadcast the network’s name, known as the SSID. Then, your network needs a strong password, as discussed in the last point.

10. Have you considered your copier?

That’s right, even your copier could be a source of security risks. Here’s a guide from the FTC on making sure your copier isn’t leaking sensitive information.

Regardless of the size of your business, the safety of your customers and your employees needs to be a priority. Hopefully, you have found these tips helpful to secure your business.

How many of these things are you doing already, and how many were new to you?