Business data defense has never been more critical. And no one is safe from a breach. If hackers can steal data from Sony, Microsoft and US government agencies, they can steal it from you! There is no 100% guarantee of safety, but you can make it challenging enough that any hacker simply gives up on trying to access your systems. However, you must also be aware that some hackers are narcissistic and view the challenge as something to overcome.
Use the Right Software
Software is vital to the core processes of most modern businesses. Whether it is bespoke, proprietary, or industry-standard, there could be vulnerabilities. Specific software used within a sector, such as commercial lease management software, is managed by the developers, who work hard to keep data safe and roll out updates. Always update your software, as it can patch backdoors that hackers can use. It also helps to use the best software you can afford.
Business Data Defense with Antivirus Apps
Of course, the first line of defense lies with reliable antivirus apps. Some of the best, such as Malwarebytes, are excellent for safeguarding all aspects of your computer network. These suites include real-time monitoring, web defense, and tracking suppression. Antivirus platforms are a great choice for small businesses, and around 14% of SMBs don’t think they have the ability to combat a cyber attack. Ask yourself, are you doing enough to prevent an attack?
VPNs Always Come in Handy
You have probably heard of a VPN but aren’t too sure what it is. A VPN creates a simulated connection to the web by way of a proxy system. It uses other nodes to connect through to the internet. Because of this, it is challenging (but not impossible) to identify you, view your data and track your actions. VPNs are a must-have in your kit of cyber defense tools. However, there are some drawbacks. They will slow down your connection and they are an added expense.
Back-Up Data, Of Course
Most cyber-attacks are done in order to steal data. This is because data is extremely valuable. Stolen data such as names, addresses, and phone numbers are sold to legitimate cold calling services. Bank details are also stolen and sold on the dark web. Hackers and organized crime gangs are usually to blame. Data theft is bad for a business and an individual. Backing up data is necessary and must be done often in various ways, such as every day on USB drives.
Secure User Access Control
User access control is a more advanced method of securing data. The size of your business doesn’t matter. It is the sensitivity of the data. For example, if you have agents liaising with clients and entering bank details, PC access cards will help. The specific controls will vary from business to business. However, there are some UAC controls that are highly effective:
- Don’t trust anything that comes from sources via the web, including email.
- Allow access to specific systems based on the privilege or need to do so.
- Separate access to systems based on the duties assigned to an employee.
- Have the network team assign and revoke access as and when it is needed.
- Ensure strong passwords are in use or assign ID cards and biometric controls.
- Have employees learn how to use systems properly and identify NetSpeak.
- Simplify user access control by adopting automated user provisioning.
User access control is nothing new and was first introduced to the public with Windows Vista. However, systems such as Windows Group Policies were used for UAC before this. Other systems include UAC cards, fingerprint and face scanning, and hierarchical or level controls.
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Using Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication is one of the newest kids on the data security block. It has become very common in response to the growing threat of unauthorized data access. Services such as Google, Amazon, and other large companies now force users to use MFA. The reason is because it is very effective. The simplest form of MFA is sending a code to a pre-registered smartphone number in order to grant access. This makes it more challenging to access.
Scan Employee Emails
One of the most common methods of access by malicious hackers is through employees. In particular, emails are among the easiest routes. You can use good antivirus systems such as Norton by Symantec to scan emails for common breach attempts such as viruses like Trojans and phishing. If this isn’t available as part of your current network configuration, managed IT services are excellent at providing enhanced security systems such as real-time monitoring.
Business Data Defense with Education
As mentioned, cyber criminals target employees. In many cases, they are the weakest link in the chain. However, it is not their fault. It is the fault of their employers. A survey by the UK government found that only 17% of British businesses educate employees about cyber security. You cannot blame employees for a breach if they have not had the appropriate, practical training. Remote seminars, regular updates, and how to spot threats are all useful for staff.
Control of Physical Devices
We all access and view data using specific software. Spreadsheets are a basic example. But data isn’t stored inside these apps. It is actually stored on physical devices. This includes mechanical hard disks, M.2 solid-state drives, and removable USB media. Strict control of these devices will help reduce the chance of data loss and breaches. However, hardware such as printer firmware can also provide a backdoor for attacks, so keep firmware updated as well.
Summary
Ensuring you use quality software for specific tasks can help form a business data defense strategy. However, handling data well is one of the best methods. This includes backups and using user access controls. Hardware and physical device control is also an effective method. Drives like USB sticks must use encryption. It also helps to prevent back door access by keeping hardware updated. You can do this by updating the firmware of web-connected devices.
