Small Business Owners Should Avoid These Cybersecurity Mistakes

Cybersecurity is a crucial aspect of running a small or mid-sized business, but the complicated details involved often lead to costly mistakes. For instance, many business owners install secure software but forget to update it, or they create strong passwords but don’t train their employees on how to protect them. There are several things to consider when you’re looking for ways to keep your business’s data safe, so it’s important to create a plan that will act as a guide for you and your employees. It’s also essential to know what not to do. 

Below, the Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce notes a few of the most common mistakes that small business owners make when it comes to keeping their information secure.

Not Protecting Files

Because many businesses rely on documents to share information between team members or clients, it’s essential to ensure those docs are well-protected. Yet there’s often a serious lack of security involved. Using a password-protected file will allow you to keep sensitive information safe as it gets shared, so utilize a PDF editor where you can edit a PDF easily without having to convert it, then download and share the pages at your discretion.

Not Updating Software

Even with helpful online tools like a PDF editor, it’s important to make sure you’re protected from hackers and thieves. Using a firewall and quality security software is the best line of defense against those who want access to your most sensitive information, but these will only do their jobs if you’re regularly updating them. Because technology is evolving at such a rapid rate, things change pretty quickly in the world of security. Without the most up-to-date version, your software won’t be nearly as effective in keeping things like financial records or customer data safe.

Not Keeping Up with Accounts

There are other business tools you’ll need to keep up with as well, including anything related to your financial accounts. While you can use software to track expenses and manage invoices, you’ll still need to keep up with your bank accounts and credit card statements. How often do you read through these thoroughly? The right account services can help prevent fraud and cyber theft, which will give you peace of mind.

Not Making Passwords Secure Enough

For your financial accounts, business email, and all other sensitive information, creating a complicated password is only the first step in keeping them protected. You’ll also need to educate your employees on password protocols, such as never writing it down, never sharing it, and always logging out of software when they’re done using it. 

You should also have all employees utilize two-factor authentication to make it even harder for hackers to access your info. This involves setting up a password and a second point of entry by way of an email or text message. You can also use a password manager that will keep all of your account info in one secure spot so you never have to worry about forgetting an important code or password.

Practice Safety Methods

Keeping your information safe and secure can be difficult, but every day there’s new technology to help business owners protect their most vital information. Look for great tools, like PDF editors and password managers, and other resources to help your employees strengthen their logins and use digital methods that can be more easily password protected. Not only will avoiding these mistakes keep your finances secure, it will help you keep your customers’ data shielded from hackers and protect your reputation at the same time. 

Join the Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce to connect with local entrepreneurs and resources that can help your business grow.

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