Cyber Security Tips for your Office

Protect Your Data

This point may seem like a very obvious one, however, even the most seemingly minor information may be utilized by hackers and thieves for nefarious purposes. Your employees should have a strong understanding of how to verify customer identities over the phone as well as what type of information they are able to share. Having only one designated person to handle your businesses’ social media accounts also helps greatly reduce your chances of having those pages infiltrated by hackers. Also, make sure you are being very cautious about what your employees share on your businesses’ social media accounts and their work emails.

Avoid Pop-Ups, Unknown Emails and Links

Another very important part of cyber security is knowing what types of emails, links, and pop-ups are unsafe. Email scams are typically referred to as “Phishing.” The dictionary defines “Phishing” as, “the fraudulent practice of sending emails purporting to be from reputable companies in order to induce individuals to reveal personal information, such as passwords and credit card numbers.” These emails often contain dangerous links that when clicked, allow your computer’s information to be stolen and used in various ways. It is also extremely important to exercise caution when receiving emails from unknown sources. Carefully analyze the email address of the sender. There are often tell-tale signs that the sender is a scammer. Here are some more tips on how to detect a scam email.

Use a Firewall and a Secure Wi-Fi Connection

Firewalls are “a part of a computer system or network which is designed to block unauthorized access while permitting outward communication,” According to the Oxford Dictionary. Many smaller businesses utilize firewalls in order to protect their systems and information. Here is a list of the best firewall programs available. Having a secure Wi-Fi connection (password required) is another very simple way to protect information from hackers and other potential threats.

Invest in Security Software and Keep it Updated

Security software may seem like a hassle, but when properly used it keeps you far safer than not using it at all. “Smaller businesses might hesitate when considering the cost of investing in a quality security system. That usually includes protections such as strong antivirus and malware detection, external hard drives that back up data, and running regular system checks. But making that investment early could save companies and employees from the possible financial and legal costs of being breached.” Says Alison Johansen on Norton Security’s website.

Keeping your personal and customer data safe may seem like a daunting task. Technology has evolved immensely in the past 20 years and hackers and scammers have only gotten more creative with how they capture information. It is up to us to keep ourselves educated and always on the cutting edge of advancements in cybersecurity.