Some small businesses may be hesitant to invest too much in security thinking that hackers do not target small operator. Contrary to popular belief, small businesses are as much at risk of cyber attacks as large corporations. You may think that hackers are more likely to target large companies that have a bigger bank balance, but experts tell us that small and medium businesses are actually hackers’ top target.
Many small businesses have become victims of cybercrime as well as physical breaches. The worst part is that these companies are not well equipped to recover from losses. That is why it is really important that you invest in your business’s security and keep it up to date. So, how exactly can you take your business security to the next level? Let’s take a look at the six easiest and effective ways to boost your business’ security.
- Install Access Control Units
Access control systems are designed to improve the security of your business by restricting access to authorized areas. These control units allow only a limited set of users to access certain parts of your company both physically and digitally.
For example, interlock doors that come with face recognition or fingerprint sensors allow only authorized users to access certain areas. Another way to regulate access to restricted areas is by distributing access control cards only to people authorized to access these specific areas.
- Upgrade Your Windows and Doors
Doors and windows are the primary points of entry for forced break-ins. It is important to have strong and secure doors and windows, as well as have a commercial-grade security lock system installed on your exit and entrance doors.
These security tools must also be installed in other areas that lead to the rooms where you have stored sensitive information. For extra security, install window locks to avoid break-ins and protect your assets and employees.
- Have Two-Factor Authentication System in Place
As the name suggests, two-factor authentication involves an extra layer of protection. With two-factor authentication, the user must have access to a second authentication system before gaining access. In simple words, your employees need more than just a username and password to access the sensitive data.
You will find this type of security system on social networking sites, where the user can enable two-factor authentication and keep their accounts safe from cyberattacks. Should someone try to access the account using a new device, the user will get a notification, along with a PIN which is required before they can log in.
- Improve Cybersecurity
In today’s modern world, the digital security of your company is just as important as physical safety. You don’t want a malicious outsider to access your private information because you did not have a robust and solid digital security plan in place.
A few ways to improve your business’ cybersecurity include:
- Ask your employees to use a strong password (preferably a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters).
- Keep your business’ devices up-to-date with the latest security protocols, including upgraded antivirus systems and firewall protection systems and use proxies to ensure more security to your system.
- Allow admin access to only employees you trust and those who need this level of access to your systems.
- Keep a backup of your data so that you have this information available if it ever gets stolen or lost.
- Have a Solid Response Plan
If you don’t have an emergency security plan in place, you will have a hard time dealing with the loss involved with a cyberattack. When you suddenly become a victim of cybercrime it can be difficult to know how to react. You can’t come up with a response immediately, which is why you should prepare your employees ahead of time.
Training goes a long way in educating your employees on what to do in this situation. It gives your employees a better idea of what should be done if a cybercrime takes place. Even if you never use this training, and let’s hope you don’t have to, you and your employees will have peace of mind knowing that a plan is in place.
- Data Disposal is a Must
You may think that the files you have thrown in the trash are gone forever. However, anyone can access your private information if you do not properly dispose of it. Never throw sensitive files or documents in the trash – instead make sure you shred them. Similarly, you should erase the data stored on your computers, smartphones, and other business devices when they are no longer in use. Hard drives containing confidential information must be physically destroyed, while digital data must be erased permanently. By upgrading your security protocols, you can avoid all types of security issues and breaches in your small business – both offline and online. These security systems will also give you peace of mind, which increases your employees’ productivity and helps your business to be more successful
