How to boost your business internet security

The integrity of your business and your reputation is on the line if you don’t take security seriously. Some high profile brands have fallen victim to cyber security attacks, and it has affected thousands of customers. Businesses such as CareFirst and Equifax, for example, have experienced data breaches and it can have far-reaching implications for your business. So how do you boost your security to minimise the risks of data loss?

Install a Business Class Network Security Appliance:

Although it would be impossible to guarantee 100% security, a Network Security Appliance (NSA) or firewall is one of the best ways that you can ensure that your systems are as protected as they can be. Firewalls will control all of the data that enters and exits your network, filtering out or blocking anything that it sees as being suspicious.

Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware Software:

As well as having a robust firewall in place you should also install anti-virus and anti-malware solutions. Within your business it will work to scan every file that is opened on the network. To maintain optimum levels of security it is crucial that the system is regularly updated as new malware and viruses are being identified all of the time.

Two Factor Authentication:

With content being accessed from so many different devices, perhaps your employees work remotely, or they access information through tablets or other devices while they are on the move, implementing two factor authentication can provide an added layer of protection to confirm the identity of the user.

Password Policy:

Passwords are one of the most important elements to computer security and every business should have in place its own password policy. This policy should create a standard code of practice that requires all employees to set strong passwords and ensure that these passwords are protected at all times. For even more security, staff should be encouraged to change their passwords every so often.

Awareness:

Training and development should cover cyber security. Making your employees more aware of how they use systems to access information and how they use company internet and devices in the right way can go some way to reducing the risk of interception by a third party.

Cybersecurity for your business should be a top priority and it is one that you should take very seriously. It is something that should be worked out in partnership with your IT department, managers and employees. Businesses should have the proper policies and strategies in place and all members of the business should be aware of what these are.