Owning and running any business is never easy. You don’t have free time to keep up with what’s happening in the cybersecurity world. However, it’s essential to know that the investments and decisions you make today will affect your business in the future.
So, make sure to pay attention to your cybersecurity strategies and avoid the following mistakes you might have made to ensure your business is safe from cyber threats:
1. Going For A Cheap Security Partner Instead Of A Practical One
Cybersecurity may seem like a daunting and expensive subject to tackle. But settling with the cheapest security service provider may not be in your best interest.
Remember that businesses vary regarding their security needs, and you may need services tailored to your niche.
The best security partner also knows what’s suitable for your unique requirements to keep your company compliant with the regulations. Although quality security solutions don’t come cheap, they’re always worth it.
To know more information when choosing a promising security partner, visit https://techumen.com/hipaa-risk-assessment/ for a HIPAA risk assessment.
2. Not Keep Your Software Updated
Keeping your software updated is crucial. Unfortunately, most companies neglect the importance of software updates. It results in outdated software, which is one of the causes of data breaches.
Keep in mind that cyber criminals constantly develop new attacks, and the best way to stay ahead of them is to keep your software updated. Ensure that all software in your devices has the latest security updates and patches.
If you’re too busy and often forget about software updates, you can set up automatic updates. You can also create a schedule to check every computer that requires manual software updates regularly,
3. Not Prioritizing Data Backup
Imagine what would happen if you lost your company data due to cybersecurity threats? It won’t only cost you more money, but it may also result in a damaged reputation and loss of customers over time. So, make sure to prioritize data backup.
If possible, make regular backups on your computer and test your backups to ensure you can restore them with ease. The simplest way to do this is to use encrypted backup software that helps you backup your files automatically and securely store various copies in the cloud or offsite.
4. Re-Using Passwords
When you successfully create a secure password, it’s easy to use it across different devices and platforms. Besides, who can remember hundreds of passwords, right? However, it’s never a good idea because once cybercriminals get your password during a data breach on one platform, they can use it for accessing your other accounts, like a bank account.
More often than not, a data breach is standard, with countless records being exposed every second. Once your password gets exposed, hackers may use it to access all accounts you used the same password. To address this cybersecurity mistake, try to use unique passwords for every website.
A strong password often consists of 12 characters or more with a combination of uppercase, lowercase, special characters, and numbers. If you can’t think of a good password, you can generate it randomly. Just make sure to use a password manager to help you remember your passwords.
5. Failing To Train Your Staff
Many companies use expensive software tools expecting their employees to increase productivity, only to end up with the exact opposite and facing possible cyber threats. Some companies don’t train their employees properly on the new system. They also don’t revise the old business practices to eliminate the manual steps now addressed with the latest solutions.
If you want to make the most out of your new software tools, make sure to pay importance to training your staff in cybersecurity. To do this, you can include group training sessions during hands-on practice or demos. A more streamlined approach is assigning a trainer for your employees to learn how to prevent and detect cybersecurity threats.
6. Using Public Wi-Fi
Another cybersecurity mistake you might be making is taking advantage of public Wi-Fi. Although there’s nothing wrong with connecting to public Wi-Fi since it’s free, it’s risky if you’re using it for your business activities.
It is because public Wi-Fi makes it easy for hackers to broadcast their Wi-Fi signal or hack the router. When the hacker controls the router, they’ll be able to modify, intercept, or see data you receive and send. For instance, they can get your email details and use them to access your other accounts.
To address this mistake, you can use a virtual private network (VPN) every time you connect to public Wi-Fi. These days, there are many affordable VPN packages you can select. They’re not only effective in keeping cyber criminals away, but you’ll also enjoy browsing without any worries.
7. Clicking Unknown Links, Pop-Ups, Attachments, And Emails
If something doesn’t feel suitable with your emails, attachments, pop-ups, or links, never click them. Social engineering and phishing attacks are prevalent these days, which may trick you into thinking your emails are legitimate.
Fortunately, there are many tell-tale signs of a scam email, and these include:
- Poor sentence structure
- Wrong grammar
- Incoherent email
- Urgency
If those signs are present in an email, make sure to delete them immediately or mark them as spam. This way, you’ll avoid any phishing attacks and keep your valuable data safe.
8. Combining Personal And Business Devices
It’s always tempting to use a single device for all your tech needs. After all, devices can be expensive. However, when using personal devices for business purposes, you’re opening yourself to a new set of issues. You can double your potential for exposure. Therefore, be careful not to merge your browsing with your business activities. Investing in a device for business purposes is your only best bet.
Bottom Line
Cybersecurity should be taken seriously, regardless of how big or small your business is. Besides, a minor lapse in cybersecurity may lead to significant damage to your company, bank account, website, and other assets.
If you don’t want that to happen, keep the above cybersecurity mistakes you might be making and do your best to address them appropriately to avoid data breaches and other cyber threats effectively.
If you are a tech enthusiast looking for the latest gadget reviews, a business owner who wants to improve your cybersecurity measures, or a casual internet user looking to stay safe online, Signsly.com has got you covered.
Also Read: Improvements of cybersecurity by AI and its applications
