The internet has opened up unprecedented opportunities for small to medium-sized businesses. However, with these opportunities come security threats from hackers. They taking advantage of a company’s security vulnerabilities to execute cyber-attacks, obstruct operations, and/or gain unauthorized access to private data. Security is ever-evolving, and business owners need to implement reliable strategies and policies that will safeguard operations. Here are five valuable security tips that will help tighten up security and enhance your company’s growth.
1. Operate over a private network
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Whether your staff members are full-time or remote, transferring and sharing data over a public network leaves your business open to several cyber-security risks, even with strong firewall policies. Hence the importance of using a virtual private network (VPN). This works by transferring data through a private network shielded with multiple end-to-end encryptions, thereby protecting your business’ online activities against attackers.
You can also take it a step further by storing your company’s data on a Virtual Private Server (VPS), but that will require the use of VPS hosts. A great example of a VPS hosting company is OVH Cloud. With a trustworthy reputation across 138 countries, their virtual server solutions aren’t only credible but also cost-effective. Their service also works with a CMS like WordPress and you can choose between the pre-installed Linux and Windows operating systems, as well as the web hosting control panels.
More importantly, their dedicated technical support team comes with years of experience and reliable technical knowledge. They consistently monitor both the VPS server and the dedicated server to keep your company data free from viruses. This is done with the use of Application-Layer DDoS Protection and BIOS Level Access.
2. Sharing is better than sending
When sending a file via mail, you effectively lose control over the mail if it’s forwarded or saved on a device that isn’t protected. This ultimately makes the file vulnerable to unauthorized access. Implementing a creditable file-sharing app or contracting a cloud storage company’s services will give you control over who has access to shared files and the duration.
If you opt to go down the cloud storage route, a combination of various cloud storage platforms for performance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness are vital. One company that offers this service is Turbot. They grant automated, real-time control and configuration of software-based solutions for your businesses. With their service, your team can safely access applications and data stored on cloud platforms (like AWS, Azure & GCP), whether local, mobile, or remote. It allows you to set up policies such as data protection, credential management, user & permission management.
3. Invest in standard office security
Every professional will tell you that a robust security system begins at the physical point of entry. Bolts and locks aren’t enough anymore. Investing in advanced security systems such as CCTV and intruder alarms will save you and your business money and troubles in the future.
4. Update your software frequently
Although many softwares update automatically, it’s always best practice to double-check to be sure. Operating systems and applications require these updates to patch online vulnerabilities in areas like anti-malware, firmware, and browser plugins, which help protect your system against different types of attacks.
5. Reinforce passwords & usernames with biometric verification
A common type of vulnerability an intruder uses to access a company’s network is weak passwords that are easy to guess. Sophisticated hackers easily detect passwords shared within a department or group. The ideal approach is to use a password manager tool to generate multiple strong passwords for each user accounts quickly.
You can also use biometric authentication systems like fingerprint recognition to fortify your network’s access further. According to Robi Karp, the CEO of Fluffy Spider Technologies, it’s only a matter of time that we will completely abandon the use of passwords.