When it comes to protecting customer information and other critical data from hackers, it is crucial to understand that layers of security are necessary. The following steps will help you preserve the safety and security of your network while allowing personnel the access they need.
Switch to the Cloud
Cloud Storage systems
offer numerous benefits for small businesses. Data migrated to the
cloud is stored on an off-site server, housed in data centers that boast
security most of us cannot afford. A mobile or remote workforce can
access information regardless of their locations and your sensitive data
will remain secure.
Secure Remote Access
For
many businesses, the cost of cloud storage is not budget friendly and
they prefer to have their data onsite, while still supporting a mobile
or remote workforce. By choosing a business grade firewall that includes
virtual private network features, you can restrict remote access to
only those authorized to connect to your computers.
Passwords
If your employees are using their kids’ names, birthday, or anniversary dates, dogs names or any word found in the dictionary as passwords,
they are weakening the security of your business as a whole. Proper
passwords are key to ensuring remote access is restricted to only your
employees. Passwords should be at least 14 characters long, include 1
capital letter, 1 number and 1 special character (e.g. @, !, $, etc.).
It is good practice to change passwords every 30-60 days and use unique
passwords for each website and application.
Business Grade Email
Securing
email communication is key to protecting private information. Email
should be hosted by a site that specializes in business grade email and
provides spam and anti-virus protection. Businesses should use email
with their own company domain name and not a generic domain from an
email provider. Email addresses should not be just a first or last name.
If you must send personal or legal information via email, such as
social security numbers or a federal tax ID, consider an email hosting
service that includes encryption.
Monitor Virus Protection
Viruses
and malware still present a serious risk for any business and having
remote employees amplifies the threat. Many would-be hackers target
off-site workers’ computer systems because they tend to be neglected and
less secure. Once remote employees connect to the company’s network
using an infected laptop, tablet or desktop then the malware can be
introduced and allow hackers access to your internal network. Regularly
review anti-virus, anti-malware and firewall consoles to verify the
software is being updated and all computers are protected. Also, review
the detection logs to determine if any computers show signs of
significant infection rates.
Talk to an Expert
If
computer security is not what you do for a living, invest in a
relationship with a professional company that does, and request an
Annual Security Review. For any questions your have about your remote
access or network security contact your DCR sales rep.
