Page 36 - CDM-Cyber-Warnings-March-2014

8!$1 $"41(38 (#$ 2 %.1 2, ++ !42(-$22$2 Small business managers have to consider the risk of cyber security quite seriously today. Security for small businesses is often lax as compared to big enterprises, which is why they often make for easy targets. In spite of their vulnerability, many small companies haven’t realized the real threat of cyber-crime. If you want to protect your business from the menace then there are a few simple tips you can follow. Update your systems To begin with, you should not underestimate the intelligence and reach of cyber attackers. As soon as you update your anti-virus software, web browser and operating systems, you are under the threat from cyber attackers looking to steal your information. Hence it’s important to constantly update your system to protect your small business. And this should be at the top of your priority list not at the bottom of it. Password security Most business owners don’t realize that often passwords can be quite predictable. It’s important to have secure passwords that cannot be guessed easily. You are better off having different passwords across segmented networks. Mostly people have the same password, which is also rather simple so that it can be remembered easily. But therein lies the problem because any hacker can break into it quite easily. Having company policies like using passwords that are 12 characters long, changing them every month etc, can have their advantages for you. Employee access can be limited Not every team member needs to access all the information in the company; hence you can ensure that critical data is only accessed by those who need to use it. For example, your financial data can only be shared with those who work in the finance section of your company. Remember, there are innumerable instances of in-house corporate theft, thus setting access levels to information amongst employees can easily minimize the risk. Internet connection should have firewall security Firewalls are programs that can be set in place to ensure that outsiders cannot access your company information. Your system’s firewall should be enabled or you can install firewall software on your private network. Home systems of employees who take their work home, or work from outside, can be firewalled as well. " # % " $ " # ! !