Cyber-attacks can happen in many ways. Therefore, it’s crucial to take specific steps towards protecting your data. Here are some useful strategies to help you get started.
- Install protective software
Installing professional anti-malware and anti-virus programs gives you a secure boundary against incoming threats. These programs can detect and deter malware, viruses, Trojans, and other types of threats from affecting your systems.
2. Implement appropriate data security policies
Your business should also have data security policies that guide employees in daily decision making. For example, you should have policies that guide employees on clicking links o opening email attachments. You may also set internet usage policies that limit certain types of online activity.
3. Don’t forget about cybersecurity frameworks
Cybersecurity frameworks are a collection of policies and procedures that relate to data security. Each type of framework is suited to types of businesses and their overall strategies.
For example, the PCI DSS cybersecurity framework governs credit card information and payment processing, while ISO 270001 standards are directed towards quality management systems. Following a cybersecurity framework also enables you to remain compliant with various regulations and develop a robust cybersecurity system.
4. Keep employees involved
Where many businesses go wrong is by forgetting to include employees in cybersecurity. Employees are typically prone to malware, phishing, and many other attacks that expose business data to risk.
Make sure you provide regular training to employees about how they can safely handle sensitive business data within their specific roles. Keeping your employees up to date will also help them take a proactive approach to data security.
5. Practice data encryption
It’s also important to encrypt all sensitive data. Encryption refers to keeping data in an unreadable state so that hackers will have a harder time accessing your information. Encrypted data works well for information such as financial records, credit card details, and much more.
6. Use strong passwords
As a startup, you’ll probably rely on usernames and passwords for many different purposes. However, password management is a challenge for both people and businesses. Creating strong passwords will help you decrease the risk of cyber-attacks on business data.
A secure password involves using a combination of numbers, symbols, and characters, using both lower- and upper-case letters, and avoiding personal details (such as pets and family members). With strong passwords in place, you and your employees will be less likely to fall victim to hacking attempts.
For your startup to be successful, you need to keep business data safe from hacking. Using an agile process to remain compliant with your industry’s specific governance and by following best practices by installing anti-malware, implementing data security controls, and integrating cybersecurity frameworks, you’ll be able to remain one step ahead of cyber-attacks and continue to grow your business.
