If massive organizations like the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis and St. Louis Lambert International Airport can be hit by cyberattacks, then your business is at risk of being victimized, too. In fact, a report from Veeam Software indicates 76% of organizations around the world dealt with at least one cyberattack in 2021. And those organizations were unable to recover 31% of their data.
Fortunately, your business can take steps to help prevent cyberattacks. Here are six tips for shoring up your business’ cybersecurity.
1. Know the risks
In order to combat cyberattacks, you must be aware of what kind of attacks you’re trying to fight off.
In 2022, malware accounts for the most cyberattacks (22%), followed by phishing (20%).
Malware, short for malicious software, aims to wreak havoc with individual computers and entire computer systems. Types of malware include adware, ransomware, spyware, viruses, Trojan viruses and worms.
Meanwhile, phishing involves an apparently legitimate message sent by email, phone or another type of communication. For example, a phishing email might contain a link or attachment that, when clicked, unleashes malware on a device. The malware then grabs login information, personal data and other information that a cybercrook can use to commit fraud or engage in other acts of wrongdoing.
2. Install and update security software
One of your best lines of defense against cyberattacks is security software, such as antivirus software and encrypton software.
Make sure you buy and install security software from a legitimate provider. The same holds true for updates of security software; don’t download software updates unless you trust the source. Beware of pop-ups on third-party websites that ask you to download their software.
In many cases, a provider of security software enables automatic updates. Pay attention to alerts about these updates so that your security software is always the latest version available.
Aside from updating your security software, don’t forget to regularly update web browsers and operating systems.
3. Stay informed
The tactics of cybercrooks change constantly. Why? Because they’re trying to stay one step ahead of new anti-cybercrime weapons.
Given the always shifting landscape, it’s vital to pay attention to the latest developments in cybercrime and cybersecurity. For instance, your employees should be kept in the loop on software updates and other cybersecurity measures being carried out at your business. And to keep on top of the latest tips and tools, you might want your employees to undergo on-site, off-site or online cybersecurity awareness training.
4. Fight ‘password fatigue’
These days, the typical person logs into dozens of online accounts. And that translates into perhaps dozens of online passwords to remember. All of this may lead to “password fatigue,” which can leave your computers vulnerable to cyberattacks.
Passwords can be one of the most effective ways to stop cybercrooks from tapping into your computers and computer networks. But those passwords will do little good if they’re not strong. If every password is 1234password, for instance, a cybercriminal could easily access your digital data.
To fortify your passwords, consider using a password generator. Don’t want to generate passwords automatically? Then be sure all your passwords are at least 12 characters long. Each one should be a hard-to-guess mix of letters, numbers and symbols.
To safely store (and keep track of) your passwords, look into using a password manager. Keep in mind that passwords should be changed at least every three months.
5. Set up multi-factor authentication
Multi-factor authentication can help keep cybercriminals from poking around in your digital information.
Data and devices can be made more secure by requiring multi-factor authentication. This requires a combination of at least two different credentials (such as a password and a unique code) to verify a user’s identity and allow them to log in.
6. Backup your data
In case a cybercrook does gain entry into your computer system, you should schedule data backups on all of your computers. Data you should protect includes documents, spreadsheets, financial files and HR files.
It’s best to plan automatic data backups. Otherwise, arrange weekly backups and store the data in the cloud or somewhere away from your business.
Ensure your data doesn’t end up in the wrong hands, get a free dark web report from ATB Technologies.