7 Tips For Protecting Your Business Data

7 Tips For Protecting Your Business Data 

 

Data theft is causing massive disruption to many businesses today. With the increase in remote working, it is unsurprising that data breach costs increased from $3.86 million to $4.24 million in 2021. Even for a small business, data security threats can be damaging, so you want to find ways to secure your sensitive business data. You may want to consider these seven ways to protect your business data.

• Use cloud services

A cloud service provider can be the best alternative if your business lacks the expertise and time to stay on top of your security risks and upgrades. A cloud service provider can help you store your data, apply software and system patches, and implement security measures to secure your business. Although this may not be practical for enterprise-level organizations, small businesses can utilize it to defend themselves. A study suggests that six out of every ten businesses adopted cloud services. The trend will continue as an estimated 46% of businesses reported improved financials on the cost after going cloud. 

• Data backup

 

Today’s new technologies have made data backups much easier than ever, and you don’t need extra effort or time to complete them. Several programs are built to run in the background and safely store your data. Likewise, you can backup your data manually for added security since a disaster can happen, either natural or man-made, to lose your data. It is never too late to back up your data and enjoy some peace of mind. 

 

1. Secure your devices  

 

You can stop potential data threats by securing your devices and network against malware. Malware can infect your unprotected devices without your knowledge and cause significant data damage or theft. Fortunately, you can do a few things to secure your business against malware by turning on your firewall and getting solid security software to protect your system. However, make sure the software doesn’t slow down your computer or network performance. Additionally, anti-spam software can help stop unwanted emails and reduce risks and distractions to your staff. 

• Recognize business needs and risks

 

You want to spend some time identifying the possible security threats your business could be exposed to. This would help you find solutions to eliminate or prevent them. Through your assessment, you can consider switching or upgrading with new devices or services for robust protection when you don’t find any solutions for the current systems. For instance, today’s cashless society means businesses must find ways to secure sensitive data from clients’ debit and credit cards. You can check this ultimate guide to credit card readers and its significance for your business.

• Keep what’s necessary

 

The more customer and staff data you acquire, the more security you require to keep them. Unfortunately, businesses tend to save more than they need, causing a catastrophe during a breach. It is vital to keep the data you need to limit hackers’ access when they breach your system. Too much data can be problematic, and it’s best to find ways to prevent it. Be sure to collect the information you need and if it’s for only a short time, find appropriate ways to dispose of them. 

 

1. Conduct your background checks 

 

You want to be extra careful when hiring new staff. For effective protection against cyber threats, you want to start internally and eliminate any threats inside your business. Before employing any employee, it can be helpful to look into their business and have a fair idea of the kind of person you are bringing into your business. It can also be useful to mind character changes in your existing staff since it can indicate existing problems in your business. You want to utilize internal controls to check employee fraud risks regardless of how you trust them. 

• Train your staff 

It is vital to make your employees understand your business security policies. You can take your staff through yearly or bi-annual training courses to ensure everybody complies with standard security practices throughout the business. Knowledge of information technology cybersecurity is key for preventing a breach or attack. You should appropriately train your employees on cybersecurity since they cannot report threats if they can’t recognize them. Meanwhile, some research has shown employees as the most at risk for cyber-attacks. 

 

With many businesses going digital, it is crucial to stay on top of your security measures and strategies to prevent data loss or theft. To ensure your business’s success, investing in the right methods is essential to keep business going.