Reggie Dejean Director of Operations View Bio

10 tips to protect your business from a cyber security attack

10 Tips to Protect Your Business From a Cyber Security Attack

The insurance industry revolves around data, and cyber criminals are acutely aware of the information goldmine of personal and financial details. Big organizations and retail establishments often make the news when a cyber security attack occur, but any-size business is fair game. It’s a matter of ease and opportunity.

Many small businesses don’t have high-level security systems or internal teams to ward off hackers. Since October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month, your firm is encouraged to prepare for a potential cyber intrusion. Observing these 10 cost-effective tips can help you protect your small business and curtail odds of a hack:

  1. Get to know your business risks. An assessment helps to uncover external risks as well as internal ones caused by employee mishaps. By assessing risks and vulnerabilities, you are better able to plan and prioritize solutions for the most pressing needs.
  2. Make a point to collect only the data you need to limit the impact of a data breach. Decide what’s pertinent and don’t create unnecessary risks by keeping personal data longer than needed.
  3. Limit access to computer systems containing sensitive client data. Make sure user authentication protocols are in place for those needing access. This includes requiring strong passwords and regular password changes.
  4. Secure mobile devices used for business purposes. Sensitive data transmitted by mobile devices should be encrypted and handled only by authorized users.
  5. Keep computer software and operating systems up-to-date. This includes any malware and virus protection software, as well as all programs.
  6. Set up proper firewalls and secure wireless networks. Firewalls and secure Wi-Fi with encryption make it harder for cyber thieves to invade your business. Set rules for telecommuting employees to ensure they use protected systems away from the office.
  7. Immediately disable accounts of former employees. Past employees should not have access to company email, client databases, or any other intellectual property.
  8. Regularly back up data. Repairing hacked systems and networks takes time. Make a point of regularly backing up crucial data so you can still take care of clients while you rebound.
  9. Know the people you’re working with: Do background checks when hiring employees. Plus, if you don’t have an in-house IT team, be sure check out contractors hired to install or service computers, software and networks.
  10. Establish policies, procedures and training. Decide on the appropriate business use of company data, computer systems and the Internet. Clearly communicate expectations to all company personnel.

Protecting your business from cyber threats is critical. These tips can get you on your way, but if you need help sorting it all out, our in-house cyber insurance team specializes in helping companies identify risks and potential solutions, including appropriate cyber insurance products.

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