Cybercriminals target businesses of all industries and sizes. According to a study conducted by the Better Business Bureau, 22% of small businesses have been the targets of cyberattacks.

Almost all cyber-attacks are intended to obtain personal data to use in identify theft. While larger organizations store much more information to steal, small businesses have less secure networks, making it easier to breach the network.

It’s important to protect your business from cyberattacks, but some business owners aren’t quite sure how. Implementing cybersecurity basics and putting them in practice will help you protect your business and reduce the risk of a cyber-attack.

To help you assess the efficiency of your current business cybersecurity practices, here’s a 10-step plan to help you navigate through the world of cyber threats.

1. Inform your employees about your cybersecurity policies.

Set up IT cybersecurity practices and policies for your employees. This includes requiring strong passwords and establishing appropriate Internet usage guidelines that comprehensively discuss your business cybersecurity policies.

2. Update your software.

Cybercriminals can enter your computer network through outdated apps with known vulnerabilities. Make sure you regularly install software updates and patches for applications and operating systems as soon as they’re available.

3. Place a firewall.

One of the first lines of defense in a cyberattack is a sturdy firewall. We recommend that all small to medium-sized businesses set up a firewall to create a barrier between your data and cybercriminals. Installing internal firewalls is also an effective practice to provide additional protection.

4. Back up all your data regularly.

Always back up all your business data including those stored in the cloud. To have the latest backup, check your on-premises and cloud servers regularly to ensure that it is functioning correctly.

5. Secure your wi-fi networks

Make sure your wi-fi network is secured, encrypted, and hidden. To hide your wi-fi network, set up your router so it does not broadcast the network name, and protect its access with a strong password.

6. Install anti-malware software.

Anyone can be a victim of data breach, no matter how vigilant one is. Since phishing attacks center on installing malware on the employee’s computer, it’s imperative to have anti-malware software installed on all devices and in your network.

7. Make an action plan for mobile devices.

Mobile devices can also impose cybersecurity threats, more so if they store confidential business data. It is best to require all employees to protect their devices with passwords, install security apps, and encrypt their data. In addition, establish protocols for reporting lost or stolen company equipment.

8. Implement strong data protection procedures.

Running your office machines on the latest software, web browsers and operating systems are the best defense against cybersecurity threats. Devise and follow a business data protection strategy that encompasses strong security measures centered around the restriction of access.

9. Use strong passwords.

Basically, strong passwords are a complex combination of special characters, numbers, and letters that provides more security for all your online accounts. Require all employees to always use two-factor authentication when accessing sensitive business data. It’s also best to encourage them to never disclose their usernames to third parties.

10. Restrict authority for software installations.

Employees should have limited access to all data systems and software installations. Any installation should only cater to their role’s specific needs, and under the permission of the network administrator.

Your business cybersecurity is a moving target, and these cybercriminals become more advanced every day. To help you stay on top of the latest when it comes to cyberattacks and innovations on prevention technology, seek assistance from a dependable IT Managed Services Provider.

At Business Continuity Services, we take advantage of industry-leading technology tools to provide our clients with the best IT Security plan that’s custom-built for their business. Contact us today and discover how we can take your business cybersecurity to the next level.