WKS, A Professional Corporation

With cyberattacks on the rise, protecting your business data is more critical than ever. Small businesses face unique cybersecurity challenges, often targeted because of their limited resources. But with the right measures in place, you can significantly strengthen your defenses–without breaking the bank.

6 essential security measures

1. Implement a zero-trust security model.

   Assume that no user or device is trustworthy by default. This approach requires continuous verification of identity and access rights, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Zero trust can be established with the help of MFA. And speaking of MFA...

2. Require MFA.

   MFA (multifactor authentication) requires users to provide multiple forms of identity verification before account access, significantly reducing the risk of compromised data. Implementing MFA for all critical accounts–especially those with access to sensitive information–should be a non-negotiable.

3. Keep software, operating systems, and applications updated.

   Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain unauthorized access to systems. Regular updates will patch these vulnerabilities, and help close these security gaps.

4. Use strong, unique passwords.

   As tempting and cost-saving as it may be, never share passwords with colleagues.

5. Foster a culture of security.

   Encourage employees to prioritize cybersecurity in their daily activities. Recognize and reward good security practices to reinforce their importance. A security-conscious culture enhances overall protection.

6. Know your threats.

   Stay informed and prepared by following the latest cybersecurity trends and emerging threats. Subscribe to security newsletters, attend industry conferences, and participate in cybersecurity forums. Knowledge is power in the fight against cyberthreats.

When to seek outside help

Many cybersecurity best practices can be implemented by you, starting today. Some, however, require outside expertise.

Don’t hesitate to engage with cybersecurity experts and consultants. They'll be able to help you uncover any vulnerabilities, and make suggestions for possible solutions, such as:

• Employee security awareness training: As your business’s first line of defense, educating your employees on the latest in cybersecurity is essential. Look for a provider offering year-round educational videos and ongoing simulated phishing attempts.

• Network monitoring: Look for a service provider offering 24/7/365 network traffic monitoring. Ensure they monitor for unusual activity and suspicious behavior, as these are the first signs of a potential breach.

• Security audits and assessments: Where may your business be vulnerable? Getting outside help to audit your current measures will help you identify areas of improvement.

• Endpoint security solutions: Antivirus software, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems protect individual devices from malware and other cyberthreats. 

• Secure remote access: If you or your employees do any work outside the office, having a remote access solution, like the cloud, or a virtual private network (VPN) is crucial. Ensure your provider encrypts and backs up data, and monitors for suspicious network activity. 

• Incident response planning: A comprehensive incident response plan outlines the steps to take in the event of a cybersecurity incident. Ensure your provider helps you update and test the plan as needed. 

Ensure you–and your providers–comply with regulatory requirements

Failure to comply with regulatory requirements may result in legal issues and could tarnish your reputation…forever.

Know which industry-specific regulations you must follow, including data protection laws and international standards, and ensure that any of your providers have documentation they’re following those regulations, too.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is a continuous process that requires constant vigilance and adaptation, especially for small businesses that may be more vulnerable to cyberthreats. 

By following this priority checklist, you can strengthen your organization's defenses and reduce the risk of cyberattacks. Stay proactive, stay informed, and prioritize cybersecurity to protect your business and its valuable assets.

Curious about how we're keeping your data safe? Reach out to us to learn more about our data security policies today.