Businesses that don’t prioritize security online are making a big mistake that could cost them customers and leak sensitive information.
Hackers and cyber threats lurk everywhere, and a business’ responsibility to protect and maintain their customers’ sensitive information can’t afford to risk that information getting into the wrong hands.
Think of the public outcry after hackers stole credit card information from major retailers in the past, like Target and TJ Maxx. You don’t want something similar happening to your business!
Here are 5 common IT security mistakes businesses make and how you can avoid them.
1. Leaving staff out of the loop
Your company’s employees need to be made aware of the security risks you’re protecting against and how they can help minimize such risks. A single mistake by a staff member who wasn’t aware of security policy or threats could cause a company-wide issue that compromises the information of your customers.
Educate your employees so they know what they’re fighting against, and they’ll do a better job helping keep your business protected.
2. Not Following Login Best Practices
It’s important to restrict the number of people who can access your networks to begin with. Set usernames and passwords so only authorized personnel can access your networks.
Remember to never use a single password for all employees. If the code falls into the wrong hands, there’s nothing you can do. And if many people have the same code, there’s a higher chance someone will slip up and leak the information somehow.
Inform your employees of password policies, and preferably, set unique and hard-to-guess passwords that include symbols and uppercase letters. You might consider one-time access code systems to provide an additional layer of security.
3. Relying on Consumer Products
Don’t make the mistake of using the same security products you use at home to manage security at the office. There’s a lot more information at stake here. Business-grade security products are required if you’re handling sensitive information.
Hire a professional to build protocol that protects your networks and have them check it regularly to ensure there’s never a lapse in protection and security.
4. Not Performing Updates
This is an easy mistake to make, but it can have serious consequences. Not updating your security software and programs means your data may not be protected.
Updates may include fixes in weak areas or vulnerabilities viruses or malware are attempting to target, and if your business is without the updated version, you could fall victim to a hacker.
5. Not Disposing of Data Correctly
When you upgrade to new technology or throw out an old hard drive, you have to ensure you’re disposing of your data in the correct way. If you’ve ever wondered why people set hard drives on fire in films, there’s a very good reason for that: Digital information is never truly deleted unless it’s written over in binary or physically destroyed.
When you throw out old equipment, make sure you’re disposing of it properly to keep the information safe from unauthorized eyes.
