Due to growing risk to their companies, business leaders should review the cybersecurity procedures they have implemented and confirm they are adequately robust for the prevention of cyberattacks. The following will discuss five methods for strengthening your company’s data security.

1) Upgrade IT Infrastructure

To secure your infrastructure, it’s crucial to implement a layered security approach that employs several technologies for preventing cyberattacks. All company computers must timely update their operating systems and applications as security patches come available to address vulnerabilities. Install antivirus and spam software on every computer and protect your network with a robust firewall. The installation of intrusion detection and monitoring systems will also strengthen your IT infrastructure security.

2) Employee Training

More employees now work remotely, utilizing personal devices to communicate. They must undergo training regarding cybersecurity, including the social engineering tactics of cybercriminals. This education should include the topic of fraudulent emails with malicious links from unfamiliar sources and how to properly confirm payment instructions and requests for sensitive business information. Dual control should be implemented to authorize transactions such as electronic funds transfers.

3) Data Encryption Solutions

Install data encryption software that uses algorithms for scrambling text, preventing them from being read unless the user can provide a key to unscramble the data. This can play an important role in securing sensitive business data transmitted by email or documents that are stored in computers or portable media.

4) Strengthen Password Policy

A fast and easy way to strengthen your company’s cybersecurity is to implement a password policy that requires unique and strong usernames and passwords. All staff members will need to use them for every account, especially for online banking accounts and emails. Two-factor authentication on all platforms and systems will also ensure authorized access.

5) Secure Mobile Devices

Implement a policy regarding the use of personal mobile devices for work-related matters. An increasing number of workers are conducting their jobs remotely, and securing their mobile devices is a crucial aspect of a company’s cybersecurity. Implementation should include biometrics, local data encryption, and power-on passwords. Devices can be limited for usage over protected/encrypted wireless connections onsite and secure personal hotspots in public facilities.

Alpha Business Support

Choosing an expert computer technology-support provider is an important decision for your business. Alpha has been a trusted partner of many companies in the Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Annapolis areas since 1990. For affordable client-focused network consulting services and solutions, please call Alpha today at (410) 295-9500.