Secure Against Cyberattacks with Common Sense Approaches

Last time we addressed the many varieties of cyberattacks, all of which have a common goal – to wreak havoc with your business. This week we’ll take a look at ways to better secure your business network.

The need for online presence has grown exponentially over the past decade with no decline in sight. Network capability is a must, particularly in the age of COVID-19 when remote work is the norm for many companies. And with increased online use comes the likewise increased probability of cyberattacks – all pointing to the necessity for robust cybersecurity measures.

Antivirus software is the common defense against most forms of malware, with a hardware or software-based firewall adding another layer to the protection mix. A firewall can help prevent an unauthorized user from accessing a computer or network. Take note that most operating systems now come with a firewall program installed for free.

For additional layers of protection, consider the following:

• A data backup program for easy recovery in the aftermath of a cyber attack
• Encryption software to protect confidential information
• A two-step authentication or password security software to help guard against password breaches
• The use of cloud services
• A properly configured virtual private network (VPN)

As far as other cybersecurity best practices – we’ve said them before, but they bear repeating:

• Passwords, passwords, passwords; too many employees and executives use passwords that are easy to hack and often use them across several platforms and websites. If that one password is compromised, so, too, can the entire network. It can’t be said often enough…have different passwords for different sites
• Educate employees on the signs of phishing email, such as mismatched URLs within the address and content, spelling and grammar errors, request for personal information
• Take it a large step further by implementing a formal security policy
• Maintain up-to-date software to keep vulnerabilities low
• Have a cyberattack response plan in place because no matter how diligent your cyber hygiene protocol is, the day may come when your company falls victim to a cyberattack

This year has turned into one giant worry-fest for most of us, between the pandemic, job insecurity, a roller-coaster stock market and the list goes on. We all feel vulnerable in one way or many, but with the proper protocols and tools in place, the fear of a cyberattack might find its way to the bottom of your worry list.