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Small business network security checklist

All enterprises are vulnerable to cyberattacks. They do not discriminate. Contrary to popular belief, small-sized businesses (SMBs) are a constant cybercrime target, with Verizon’s Data Breach Investigations Report finding that 58% of cyberattacks target small organizations, fuelled by business owners’ carelessness in shielding their IT infrastructure. As such, SMBs must own a reliable cybersecurity foundation. Read on for an effective, five-step security checklist: .

1. Effective endpoint security

Endpoint security involves the protection of your IT infrastructure when accessed via devices such as desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Should these gadgets not have the required configuration, they become attractive entry points for cyber threats. The solution? Devote resources to effective endpoint security. These include firewalls, antivirus and anti-malware software, internet security tools, and mobile device management tools, to name a few, guaranteeing that any connected devices to your network are secure from any issues.

2. Incident response plan

Note all of the incidents occurring in your office and focus on any trends to develop effective incident response and disaster recovery plans. Questions to consider are: What are the most successful attacks your company experiences? Are your staff susceptible to phishing scams? Maybe ransomware attacks are becoming increasingly widespread? Fake exercises, such as “digital fire drills” that involve distributing phony phishing emails to all employees to see how many hits you’d get, are a great tool. The data collected allows you to specifically adjust your incident response plan.

3. IT security resources

IT security should always be an imperative facet of your daily operations. As the number of targeted threats continue to rise, your business needs to designate your IT resources such as servers, phone systems, and software to the appropriate members. One such route is to partner with managed IT service providers (MSPs) to maximise your resources and ensure protection against the latest attack methods. The squad of complete IT experts monitors your IT infrastructure 24/7, year-round to proactively prevent data breaches, all for an affordable monthly fee.

4. Strong password policies 

The first line of defence, passwords are still the most convenient methods of securing data online. Avoid using passwords composed of numbers and characters, as these can be predictable and easily hacked, instead use sentences such as “idrinkwineonweekends.” Password updates should only occur after data breaches to prevent password confusion among staff.
Additionally, utilise multifactor authentication (MFA) to require at least two processes of verifying a user’s identity, meaning cybercriminals would need both means to be successful.

5. Update your policies

Cybersecurity is a never-ending journey, but as with most threats in life- it is better to prevent than cure. Frequently examine your company’s IT policies and procedures, updating them with a thorough awareness of the latest threats that endanger your data security. When navigated correctly, cybersecurity is a guaranteed route to ensuring your business isn’t hindered by cyberthreats.

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