13 Strategies to make your cyber security fail-proof

Skilled hackers can easily access your system and steal precious business information. Upgrading your cyber security can help address this problem.  

Taking your cyber security seriously is a must. Otherwise, you leave the door open for criminals to compromise your business’s privacy and cause a lot of legal troubles.  

Now, you might think that hackers only target large companies due to more resources. But that’s not the case.  

Whether you’re a small or medium-sized organization, you have a large amount of sensitive data that hackers can utilize. If it ends up in the wrong hands, your reputation can be in shambles, and you may lose access to invaluable information. 

The good news is that every business leader can prevent this scenario. And the best way to do so is to take cyber security measures to the next level.  

This article will share the 13 most effective strategies for making your cybersecurity disaster-proof.  

1. Upgrade Cloud Security  

Data cloud storage is cost-effective and convenient, but that doesn’t mean you should use just any platform.  

Look for the most secure ones that prioritize safety features. Some of your best options include OneDrive and SharePoint.  

2. Secure Each Part of Your Network 

Mobile devices, computers, and laptops connected to your network can be ideal entry points for hackers. Safeguarding these devices with authentication measures is a great way to prevent cyber attacks.  

You can benefit from having strong Wi-Fi and device passwords. They limit access and help ensure only your team members can enter your system. 

But simple and repeated passwords are very easy for hackers to access. Once they have figured it out, they have access to your company’s sensitive data, causing major issues for your business. 

Here are 3 tips for creating strong password security:  

• It should be 10 characters, symbols and upper and lowercase letters 
• Choose something you can easily memorise or use a password manager such as Dashlane to safely store all your passwords.  
• For added security, ensure that you and your employees frequently change all passwords. 

3. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) 

Don’t forget about using virtual private networks (VPNs). They can stop web browsers, software, and people from accessing your connection, keeping the data you send and receive anonymous. At Network and Security we use NordLayer and found it to be very efficient.  

4. Invest in Antivirus Protection 

Antivirus protection is a must and is the most common tool to combat cyberattacks. It makes a huge difference in protecting your business. Look for programs from reliable providers and only use one antivirus app per device. We recommend Heimdal Security. 

5. Don’t Ignore Upgrades and Updates  

Hackers are constantly testing for vulnerabilities in software and apps in the hope of accessing sensitive data. Each week, it seems we hear of yet another business suffering a security breach.  

App and software updates aren’t just there to improve speed and user experience. They also contain critical security updates to protect your data and devices. To help safeguard your business against cyber attacks, make sure your apps and software always have the latest updates installed. 

6. Keep an Eye Out for Phishing  

Every day, businesses in the UK fall victim to phishing attacks. Scammers are using text messages, emails, phone calls, social media and even apps to fraudulently access sensitive data, including usernames, passwords and banking details. With attacks becoming more and more sophisticated in appearance, it is easier than ever to be duped by these scams.  

So how can you detect a malicious text or email? Look out for messages that are not addressed to you by name, or encourage you to take urgent action. Cyber criminals rely on people clicking in haste, without ensuring that the source is genuine. Don’t fall into this trap. Instead, contact the alleged company or system independently, or talk to your IT team. 

 7. Back Up Your Data  

Losing valuable data through a system failure or cyber-attack can bring your business to its knees. The data can be tough to recover and, in severe cases, can be lost forever. It could be some time before your business is up and running again. Thankfully, disasters like this can be avoided by simply backing up your business data.  

It’s important to note that saving your data locally or on an external drive can still leave you open to risk. So, when choosing a backup service, make sure it is with a reputable supplier. 

8. Use Multi-Factor Authentication  

The truth is one password is simply not enough. No matter how strong your single password is, cyber criminals can still easily access your data. How? Through the aptly named ‘brute force’ technique. The cyber equivalent of hammering your door down, brute force is where thousands of password combinations are tried in quick succession — until one inevitably works.  

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) ensures that your account stays locked, even if a hacker uncovers your password. A ‘second factor’ could be anything from a fingerprint scan to a code that is sent to an app on your phone. Often used to secure internet bank accounts, MFA is one of the easiest ways to fortify your business against damaging cyber attacks. 

9. Protect Your Personal Email  

You probably already have security measures implemented on your work email, but what about your personal email?  

Keeping your personal email secure plays an important role in protecting your business. If your password is weak, cyber criminals can easily hack into your account and send emails that look as though they are from your business address. They can also discover sensitive information that they then use to break into other systems. Stay a step ahead by ensuring your personal emails have the same protections as your business accounts. 

10. Train Your Team  

As a successful business that moves quickly, there are times when employees behave in less secure ways to prioritise productivity.  

Keep one step ahead of the hackers by educating your employees about the latest threats to IT security. If your team are aware of what to look out for, they are far less likely to fall victim to fraudulent messages or click on dangerous links.  

A bite-size course such as Usecure, will empower your employees with the ability to spot, avoid and report even the most sophisticated phishing attacks. It will also help them build secure online habits.  

11. Protect Your Personal Devices  

Modern technology has revolutionised the way we work. Thanks to portable devices like smartphones and tablets, employees can easily access systems anytime and anywhere.  

While this can do wonders for productivity, it also poses a serious security threat. Personal devices are usually not encrypted as safely as your work devices, making them more vulnerable to attacks. To ensure that all personal devices are safe, make sure you always lock them, only install apps from trusted sources, keep the device operating system up to date and, where possible, avoid storing personal information. 

12. Build a Culture of Security in Your Workplace  

More and more businesses are beginning to get it. That security culture is a critical must-have asset.  

With everyone working together to shield their workplace from attacks, you’re much more likely to stay safe and secure.  

Short and simple courses such as the ones Usecure has created will effortlessly build a strong security culture in your business.  

13. Enable Firewall Protection

A firewall is your first line of defence against cyber attacks. It works by filtering out suspicious information attempting to enter your computer or network via the internet, protecting it from malicious data.  

Your firewall should always be enabled on your company network. When working remotely, make sure your WiFi network is also protected. If your employees are working from home, it is a good idea to provide them with firewall protection on their personal network too. 

Enhancing your cyber security involves a multifaceted procedure. Ensuring that all parts of your business network are secure.  

This makes the process highly complex.  

Working alongside an IT support partner can make the process easier and smoother.