Every business owner wants to make sure that their company is safe, and secure – especially if they do online transactions. After all, when credit card data is involved, you want to make sure that no information will get stolen. Hackers can access the data in many different situations. Hence, online businesses definitely need to make sure that they protect themselves, and their customers, from cyber attacks. But, how do you do this? The following information will give you all the tips you need to keep everyone’s information safe.
Protect Yourself From Malware
According to Silicon Republic, there were several cyber attacks in 2017 alone. Hence, it shows just how weak certain companies are from these intrusions. Because most companies are now required to have an online presence, they risk being hacked if they don’t have a good cybersecurity system – and the threats can come in many forms. Hackers have evolved their methods to create intrusions that can have long-term effects. Malware and backdoor files can not only affect the business’ website. They can also gain information from customers. So, it’s up to the company to make sure that their website is secure and worry-free.
Homeland Security Advice
But, there are several things you can do. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has some great advice. For example, you should never click on links within emails unless you are sure it is safe to do so. Similarly, you should never open an unknown attachment. Either one can be filled with malware, and harm your computer.
Next, do not give out your personal information online unless you know it is a safe, and secure, website. You can usually tell if it’s secure by the “lock” symbol next to the website’s URL. If it isn’t there, or you aren’t sure, don’t give out the information.
Another good piece of advice involves passwords. Make sure you use a unique one that only you would know. Having a password with personal information, or common words will make it easy for hackers to figure out. So, make it as difficult as possible.
Keep Everything Private
There are other ways to make sure that hackers can’t access your information. According to Forbes, it’s a good idea to keep your private information private. Whether it’s your business computer or your phone, it’s entirely possible to communicate with your coworkers through either device. Let’s face it. Not everyone gets to leave their work at the office, and your information can be accessed on several devices. While that’s good for working on-the-go, it also means you need to secure your information on all of your devices – including your phone. Making sure you have security on all of your devices is a great way to put up a cyber shield.
As for your business’ website, it’s also a good idea to add security to it. There is a big difference between websites that begin with “http” and “https”. The “s” stands for secure, and it’s a sign that people can trust it. It may not seem like a big deal. But, one little letter can make a difference.
Encrypt The Data
As most business owners know, much of the data you use on a daily basis can be highly sensitive. It would be a disaster if it got into the wrong hands. From social security numbers to credit card information, hackers are looking for everything they can get their hands on. Therefore, as Entrepreneur suggests, you should encrypt such information.
Most operating systems have full-disk encryption tools. If you’re not sure how to use them, your IT department can assist you. However, it is a vital tool that will encrypt everything on your computer without slowing it down. But, to make sure your computer stays safe, you should also make sure that your computer automatically logs off after a certain amount of inactivity time. Doing so will ensure that your computer stays safe even when you need to step away from it.
Keeping data secure should be paramount. It keeps it safe and lets customers know you’re thinking about them too. The information in this guide should help you take the necessary steps in blocking hackers from accessing it. As a result, you can worry less about others getting private information, and focus more on the business, and your customers.
About the Author
Nick Rojas is a business consultant and journalist who lives in Chicago and his hometown Los Angeles with his wife. His work often discusses social media, marketing, and branding in regards to small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
