What you need to know about your anti-virus software to protect your business.

There are way too many companies that either don’t keep their anti-virus Software up to date or assume the latest version protects their data from malware and hackers. There are far too many companies that wait to purchase and install anti-virus software after a virus or breach occurs. Both do companies more harm than good.

These can be knee jerk reactions, and frankly by the time your network or workstations have a virus, it’s too late. Also, anti-virus software struggles to stay ahead of hackers and malware. By the time an update is released, the virus is out there corrupting critical files, leaving businesses with compromised data or files that cannot be recovered or a very expensive endeavor to recover it at best.

Update anti-virus regularly

The importance of keeping anti-virus software up to date on a daily basis post installation (both the virus definitions and the software version) is more important than many other business operations. Outdated anti-virus protection is the same as not having any at all. The Internet is not secure and even those who are extremely tech-savvy can unknowingly download some type of malware. Taking the time to learn about the consequences of not having any anti-virus protection should be sufficient enough to change any minds insisting it’s not essential. The primary reasons to invest in anti-virus software now, rather than waiting until problems arise include:

• Quality protection from viruses
• Protection from identity theft and spyware
• Protection from spam

Without the proper and routinely updated anti-virus software in place, you are putting your business’s personal files and information at risk every time an employee goes online, checks email, etc. Which is how many times per hour? For most small business owners, this would mean complete disaster and result in them having to shut their doors or even file for bankruptcy. Not to mention the public relations damage that ensues, along with loss of trust.

Don’t wait to invest in anti-virus software

There are a number of startup and small business owners who believe anti-virus software is a luxury best incorporated after a growth period or reaching a profit projection. They mistakenly think that no one would attempt to steal their information or identity since they are not worth much. It’s a risky notion. Data, all data, from companies large and small has value. Hackers are keenly aware that smaller companies are less likely to have the anti-virus software or resources to lock down data. This makes them an easy target for hackers.

Take a proactive and diligent approach to protecting your business from hackers and malware

While there are a number of anti-virus software programs on the market, it’s smart to consult with an IT firm specializing in protecting your network and workstations, one who will recommend and install exactly the anti-virus protection best suited for your business. When it comes to ensuring the longevity of your company, making this type of investment will ensure your business continues to be successful and profitable… and your priceless data is safe. While no one or no software can completely protect your data since anti-virus programs often respond to, rather than prevent, the next malware, a proactive approach is better than none.

The post Is Your Anti-virus Software Doing More Harm Than Good? appeared first on Invision.