Think your company is immune from a cyber attack? Think again. No matter the size or reputation of your company, virtually every business can wind up falling victim. Of course, even the best and toughest safeguards won’t prevent all cybercrime. But because startups and small businesses are often considered most vulnerable to criminal cyber activity, your best bet is to invest in software and leverage preventative tactics that will keep your systems safe. Here are five reliable ways to better ensure the Security of your business in the short and long term.

1. Maintain Secure Passwords

It may seem trivial, but ensuring your employees have strong, hard-to-break passwords on their computers can play a crucial role in your company’s overall IT security. Password hacking is on the rise. Through cracking, spyware and even plain-old guessing, cybercriminals can access sensitive password-protected information with little to no effort.

When is the last time you updated your company passwords? How about your personal passwords? Do the two overlap? If you answered “yes,” then it may be time to update them. Remember the general rule: longer is stronger. Thus, create passwords that feature 10 or more characters, including numbers and uppercase and lowercase letters. Changing passwords on a monthly basis is also said to be a good practice.

2. Invest in Cloud-Based Data Protection

Do you have a local and/or offsite data storage system in place? If disaster strikes, you’ll be wishing you did. Studies indicate the loss of critical documents and files, even for a 24-hour period, can seriously harm a business, from monetary losses to bruised reputations.

Known as the ultimate “set it and forget it” solution for backup, Mozy offers critical data protection services for small and large businesses alike. In particular, Mozy offers a higher level of privacy than conventional online server backups. Offering a full range of support for Mac, Windows and Linux servers, Mozy also backs up Microsoft Hyper V.

3. Encrypt and Perform Routine Maintenance

Encrypt all sensitive data, especially when it comes to third parties using your site — for instance, clients’ personal information. Making use of an SSL Certificate in particular is a highly effective way of protecting login or payment information. Another way to avoid falling victim to a cyber attack is to Perform Routine Maintenance checks of your site. Don’t just wait for an attack to occur. Make sure to regularly scan your site for vulnerabilities that may invite hackers. Scheduled maintenance could also include updating any anti-virus software you use.

4. Train Your Employees

Maintaining good security practices shouldn’t just come from the top. In fact, all employees should be well-versed in your company’s security standards and procedures. Make security a priority and train your employees in various security principles. In particular, the FCC recommends establishing appropriate internet use guidelines that detail penalties for violating company cybersecurity policies as well as rules about how to handle and protect sensitive customer information and data.

In addition to your company’s security standards, teach your employees about hacking methods that are common, such as spear phishing, and how to recognize them.

5. Control Access to Equipment and Wi-Fi

Because mobile devices and laptops are easy targets for thieves, it’s important to prevent access or use altogether of these devices by unauthorized persons. Store and/or lock these items properly when not in use. Additionally, only allow administrative privileges to trusted personnel and key IT employees.

Your workplace Wi-Fi networks can be an entry point for hackers. Make sure to not only protect the password for accessing the router but also to hide your network name with a Service Set Identifier (SSID).

Don’t be a target. As you ring in the New Year, you may also want to usher in a new approach to your company’s security. Ultimately, failing to abide by these trusty tips might land your company in hot water. Plus, which company wants to make headlines for all the wrong reasons and become yet another statistic related to cyber breaches and security failures? In the end, do the right thing and invest in practices that will safeguard your company from potential cyber attacks.

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